FIAT 500 Hybrid
Review
RETRO GOES ECO: THE FIAT 500 HYBRID REVIEW
Few cars turn heads like the Fiat 500. With its rounded arches, cheeky stance, and dollop of old-school charm, it’s a fixture of urban cool. But now it’s doing something even more unexpected- trying to save the planet. Sort of.
The 2020 Fiat 500 Hybrid isn’t a radical reinvention (that’s for the 500 Electric). Underneath, it’s still the same retro runabout many have come to love, but now with a mild-hybrid powertrain aimed at improving efficiency and emissions.
We had the mid-range Lounge trim, powered by a new 1.0-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid petrol engine paired with a manual gearbox. Finished in grey with a cream interior.
But the question is, does the hybrid tech add any meaningful benefits?
EXTERIOR:
Time has been kind to the Fiat 500’s silhouette. Over a decade on, and with only a minor facelift, it’s still a good-looking car. Rounded headlights, short overhangs and a sloping rear end make it playful, yet stylish.
The Lounge trim comes with 15-inch alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights. While some rivals chase modern minimalism, the 500 remains unapologetically retro. Though some may argue that the design needs a more extensive freshening up.
Even so, the 500 remains a fashion statement on wheels.
INTERIOR:
Step inside and you’re greeted with a cabin that’s as characterful as the exterior. The body-coloured dashboard panel evokes classic 1950s flair, while the big, round speedo and chrome accents keep things feeling special.
Material quality is a mixed bag with many hard plastics – but the overall look remains unique.
The Lounge trim features a 7-inch Uconnect infotainment screen with Bluetooth, DAB, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto as standard. The system is relatively responsive, though a tad small my modern standard.
As part of the mid-cycle refresh however, a digital drivers display is available on mid-level trims and above. It is bright and easy to read, adding a hint of modernity to the cabin.
The upright driving position is charmingly quirky, providing good visibility. However, with a fixed steering column, those with longer legs may struggle to find a comfortable driving position.
Being a small car, the rear space is a squeeze, reserved for kids or bags. The boot- at 185-litres- is useable but far from being ample. For larger items, the rear seats will have to be folded down.
DRIVING:
The 500 Hybrid is powered by a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine mated to a small electric battery. It is not intended to drive the car solely on electric, rather to aid in acceleration and assist the start-stop function.
With regards to stop-start, is works relatively well, turning the engine on and off smoothly and quickly.
But it doesn’t help acceleration. The 500 is not a quick car. Around town, you have to push the engine and gearbox more than you may want, to keep up with everyday traffic.
On the motorway, a lot of momentum is needed for merging and overtaking. Once up to speed, wind, road and engine noise is noticeable
The 6-speed manual gearbox is light and easy to use but can feel rubbery and loose.
The ride, although not harsh, due to its short wheel base and small wheels, does jiggle about a bit around town, but is easy to manoeuvre through tight gaps.
At high speed the ride smoothens out, though due to the relatively soft set-up, tall sides, and light steering, it feels unsettled- especially from passing traffic.
It’s safe to say, the 500 is better suited to urban driving.
Fiat claims the 500 Hybrid gets 53-60 mph, though you’re more likely to achieve around 50 mpg.
RIVALS:
The city car segment isn’t as crowded as it once was, but there are still a few key players. The Toyota Aygo X offers rugged crossover style and bulletproof reliability. The Suzuki Ignis is more practical and offers a genuine hybrid drivetrain. The Hyundai i10 trumps them all in space and spec for the price.
But none match the 500 for personality. It may lag in versatility and performance, but it’s still the go-to style icon of the segment.
If you’re buying with your heart and wanting to make a statement, the Fiat 500 Hybrid is the city car for you.