Fiat 500 review

A Compact Icon with Timeless Charm

The original Fiat 500, launched in the 1950s, was a revolutionary city car—small, affordable, and easy to maintain.

It quickly became a beloved classic, selling around 3.9 million units over 18 years. Fast forward to 2008, and Fiat revived the 500, joining the retro movement alongside Volkswagen’s Beetle and BMW’s Mini. The modern 500 retains the styling and character of its predecessor while adding contemporary features, making it a highly customisable and economical choice.

Pros & cons

  • PIconic retro styling
  • PLow running costs
  • PEasy to drive
  • OLimited rear space
  • OFirm ride quality
  • ONot the best for motorway driving

Engine Options and Driving Experience

Since its reintroduction, the Fiat 500 has undergone several updates, including hybrid and electric variants. There’s also a convertible model with a full-length canvas roof, an SUV version (500X), and a larger estate (500L). Despite these variations, every Fiat 500 maintains its signature charm and urban-friendly dimensions.

Most used models on the market come with either a 1.2L or 1.4L four-cylinder petrol engine, making them ideal for city driving. The compact size makes manoeuvring through traffic and parking effortless.

For those looking to maximise fuel efficiency, the 0.9L two-cylinder TwinAir engine is worth considering, provided long motorway drives aren’t a regular requirement. If longer journeys are a factor, the now-discontinued 1.3L diesel may be a better fit.

A facelift in 2016 saw the discontinuation of the 1.4L petrol and 1.3L diesel. However, enthusiasts can opt for the sporty Abarth version, featuring a 1.4L turbocharged petrol engine for added excitement. For most buyers, the 1.2L petrol remains a popular choice, offering a balance of efficiency and affordability while focusing more on comfort than sportiness.

Running Costs and Economy

One of the biggest selling points of the Fiat 500 is its low running costs. The 1.2L petrol engine delivers a claimed 55 mpg, rising to 60 mpg with stop-start technology. The TwinAir version boasts a theoretical 70 mpg, while the hybrid model achieves around 53 mpg. Road tax is affordable, starting at around £180 per year, and insurance costs remain low. Servicing and repair costs are generally inexpensive, making it an excellent budget-friendly option.

Key stats

 

Model
Fiat 500, Fiat 500 Electric, Abarth 500

Body type
3-door hatchback, convertible (500C)
Available fuel types
Petrol, Diesel (pre-2016), Mild Hybrid (MHEV), Electric
Acceleration (0-60 mph)
12.9s (1.2L Petrol), 10.0s (0.9L TwinAir), 9.0s (1.0L Hybrid), 9.0s (Fiat 500 Electric 24kWh), 8.0s (Fiat 500 Electric 42kWh), 7.8s (Abarth 500 135hp), 6.7s (Abarth 500 180hp)
Number of seats
4
Boot space:
185 litres (550 litres with rear seats folded)
Exterior dimensions (L x W x H)
3,571mm – 3,660mm (L) x 1,627mm – 1,682mm (W) x 1,488mm – 1,527mm (H)
CO₂ emissions
0 g/km (Electric), 88-110 g/km (Petrol & Hybrid), 139-160 g/km (Abarth models)
Fuel economy
45-60 mpg (Petrol), 60+ mpg (Hybrid), 35-45 mpg (Abarth), Electric range: 118-199 miles

Insurance group

Fiat 500 1.2L Petrol: Group 7-9

  • Fiat 500 0.9L TwinAir: Group 10-12
  • Fiat 500 1.0L Hybrid: Group 11-13
  • Fiat 500 Electric 24kWh: Group 12-14
  • Fiat 500 Electric 42kWh: Group 14-16
  • Abarth 500 135hp: Group 26-28
  • Abarth 500 180hp: Group 32-35
Engine
Options
Insurance
Prices
Driving
Practicality
Issues

The Fiat 500 has been offered with a range of engines over the years, catering to different needs.

Buyers can customise their Fiat 500 with various trims and packages, including:

How much does a Fiat 500 cost to insure?

How much does a used Fiat 500 cost?

Driving experience: Why the Fiat 500 stands out

Practicality: stylish but compact

Common problems to look out for when buying a used Fiat 500:

Interior and Practicality

Inside, the Fiat 500 blends retro aesthetics with modern technology. Most models feature a central infotainment screen for navigation, phone connectivity, and multimedia functions. Though slightly larger than the original, the modern 500 is still compact. Front passengers enjoy decent space, but rear seats are best suited for children. The boot is modest in size, but split-folding rear seats add some versatility. If additional space is a priority, the larger 500X or 500L may be better alternatives.

What to Look Out For

Used Fiat 500s are widely available in the UK, with early high-mileage models starting at around £2,000. A well-maintained 1.2L version from 2016 onwards will typically cost between £4,000 and £6,000, while post-2020 hybrids fetch around £10,000.

When buying used, checking the service history is essential. Common issues include:

  • Clutch master cylinder replacement (£400)
  • Ignition coil failure (£200)
  • Oxygen sensor issues (£180)

Final Verdict

The Fiat 500 remains one of the most charming and characterful superminis on the market. Designed for urban living, it delivers low running costs and a stylish, customisable look that appeals to many drivers. If you’re after an affordable, fun-to-drive city car, the Fiat 500 is well worth considering.