Fiat's first true crossover, the compact 500X adds a welcome touch of ruggedness and some much-needed utility to the 500 line. It's also the most mainstream Fiat model, offering an array of safety and comfort features aimed to fully satisfy American tastes.
What's New for 2017
The model lineup has shrunk to three trims: Pop, Trekking, and Lounge. Option packages are now offered on all models and can be combined, allowing customers to customize their selections.
Choosing Your FIAT 500X
Two factors distinguish the 500X from typical hatchbacks and wagons: a tallish body and an elevated ride height. You get 50.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the back seats folded, or 18.5 cubic feet with all seats up. A folding front passenger seat lets you carry even more.
The entry-level Pop carries a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that develops 160 horsepower and comes only with a six-speed manual transmission. Standard on Trekking and Lounge models, and optional for the Pop, is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque, mated with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Front-drive is standard. All-wheel drive, which adds about $1,900, includes a disconnecting rear axle for enhanced efficiency.
Fuel economy with the 2.4-liter engine is EPA-estimated at 22/30 mpg (city/highway) and 25 mpg combined. All-wheel drive drops the estimate to 21/29 mpg (24 mpg combined). The Pop model with the manual transmission is estimated to achieve 25 mpg in city driving and 33 mpg on the highway (28 mpg combined). A rearview camera is standard on the Lounge trim level, and available elsewhere as part of an option group.
The 500X is offered in three trim levels:
The Trekking and Lounge are eligible for the Advanced Safety package, which adds blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic detection, automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, forward collision warning with active braking, lane keeping assist, and rear parking sensors. Options also include a panoramic sunroof and a Beats sound system.
Utility is a strong point for the 500X, especially with all-wheel drive. When it comes to features for the money, the mid-level Trekking is our pick. We suspect most buyers will agree, especially now that it's available with leather seats.