Fiat's SUV model, the 500X, makes its debut. | Fiat
CAR / MOTOR SHOW
June 9, 2015

Fiat's SUV model, the 500X, makes its debut. | Fiat


Fiat 500X



The 500X, an SUV version of the Cinquecento, Debuts



At the Paris Motor Show, Fiat unveiled the compact crossover SUV "500X." As the name suggests, it is the newest member of the current "500" family.




Text by HORIGUCHI Yoshihiro (OPENERS)




Two Types Available: Urban and Leisure



Paris Motor ShowJoining the 500 family is the crossover SUV model "500X." Previously, the lineup centered around the standard "500," with the open-top model "500C", the four-door "500L", and its off-road-styled variant "500L Trekking", and the 7-seater "500L Living" had been released, making this the sixth model, introduced as a crossover SUV.

Its dimensions are 4.25 meters in length and 1.80 meters in width, with a height of 1.60-1.62 meters depending on the drive wheels and the presence of roof rails. The luggage compartment offers a standard capacity of 350 liters.



The 500X will be available in two versions: an urban version focused on styling and a leisure version designed for enhanced off-road capability. Furthermore, there will be a choice of gasoline and diesel engines, three transmission options (6-speed manual, 9-speed automatic, and 6-speed dual-clutch), and three drivetrain configurations (FF, 4WD, and FF with Traction Plus). This combination allows for a wide range of variations.



Fiat 500X

Fiat 500X


At launch, the lineup will include an FF model with a 140ps 1.4-liter turbo MultiAir II gasoline engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, and an FF model with a 120ps 1.6-liter MultiJet II diesel engine and a 6-speed manual. Additionally, a 140ps 2.0-liter MultiJet II diesel engine with a 9-speed automatic transmission and 4WD will be available.



Following this, a 110ps 1.6-liter "E-torQ" bi-fuel engine with a 5-speed manual transmission and FF will be introduced, along with a 170ps 1.4-liter turbo MultiAir II gasoline engine with a 9-speed automatic transmission and 4WD. Furthermore, the most powerful TigerShark 2.4-liter engine, producing 184ps, will be added with a 9-speed automatic and four-wheel drive.



A 6-speed dual-clutch transmission with FF is also planned for the 140ps 1.4-liter turbo gasoline engine. For turbo-diesel options, a 95ps 1.3-liter MultiJet with a 5-speed manual FF and a 140ps 2.0-liter MultiJet II with a 6-speed manual and 4WD have also been announced.



This 9-speed automatic transmission with manual mode is a first for Fiat vehicles in the 500X, promising smoother gear changes and improved fuel efficiency due to its increased number of gears.


Fiat 500X


The 500X, an SUV version of the Cinquecento, Debuts (2)




Traction Plus Enhances Off-Road Capability Even in FF



In 4WD models, the system disconnects the rear wheels during low engine load conditions, such as coasting, and temporarily engages front-wheel drive to improve fuel economy. This switching between FF and 4WD occurs automatically without the driver's intervention. Fiat notes that among compact SUVs of similar size, only the 500X and the group's Jeep brand model "Renegade" are equipped with similar functions.



The 500X features a "Drive Mood Selector" that alters the behavior of the brakes, steering, and transmission. Three modes are available: "Auto" for comfort and fuel efficiency, "Sport" for performance, and "All Weather" for slippery road conditions.



For the leisure-oriented version, which requires higher off-road performance, the "All Weather" mode is changed to "Traction." In 4WD, this enhances torque transfer to the rear wheels, while in FF, the "Traction Plus" control system activates to ensure grip on slippery surfaces. The adoption of Traction Plus is said to provide better economy and improved performance on low-grip surfaces compared to models with a 4WD system.



Fiat 500X

Fiat 500X


Safety features include both active and passive systems, with six standard airbags, cornering headlights, fog lights, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Depending on the trim level and market, advanced features like Lane Assist and Blind Spot Warning may also be added. Optional equipment includes a ParkView monitor that activates when reversing, along with brake control.



The infotainment system is equipped with either a 5-inch or 6.5-inch touchscreen, offering navigation, Aux-in, USB connectors, Bluetooth, and SD card functionality. The Beats Hi-Fi system, co-developed with Beats by Dr. Dre for the 500L, will also be available as an option.