Fiat has never had a massive presence in Australia, but they are sure giving it a good go with several different variants now available.
The Fiat Cinquecento has been one the world’s most recognisable automotive small cars for more than 66 years and now there’s a new electric version that is a bit different.
The new 500e launched here in just one trim, known as La Prima (The First), and it’s got all the mod-cons covered with big new screens, smartphone mirroring, and eco-leather fabrics.
The 500e is slightly larger proportions and heavier than the petrol versions however, the electric 500 gets smoother bodywork, cleaner lines, and a retro design.
The front looks like a happy smiling face ready to take on the world while the rear end is tight and adds to the cuteness of the overall body style.
The interior is modern as said before and for a very small car there is a decent amount of room, at least for the front row passengers anyway.
Being electric there is no gearshift, but rater buttons on the dash. This gives an open centre between the dash and centre console helping to increase the room.
There plenty of headroom and the fixed glass roof helps this, however the seats have little adjustability and do not have enough bolstering.
There is plenty of storage pockets up front, wireless phone-charging cradle with a non-slip rubber floor, USB-C and A ports, and a good size centre-console bin with roller cover.
Rear legroom is not great. It will be fine for younger children but unless you can manipulate your body, don’t even bother trying to get comfortable back there.
Boot space is small at 185 litres, but it’s capable of the weekly grocery shop.
The Fiat 500e La Prima is powered by a single, front-mounted electric motor producing 87kW of power and 220Nm of torque. This is mated with a 42kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
Fiat claims the 500e can do the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.0 seconds and a claimed range of 311km, but more real-world figures is around 250km.
If a small, cute car that is only going to be used as an inner-city driver is what you are looking for, the Fiat 500e might work. Going on longer drives and taking friends with you, that will be a problem.
Fiat 500e La Prima $57,295 drive away.
