Fiat 500X launched from $28,000

The Fiat 500 family has welcomed its newest member, the 500X – the new compact crossover that marks the latest evolution of iconic 500 brand. Priced from $28,000 plus on-roads, Fiat is pitching the 500X against more premium models such as the MINI Countryman.

Larger and more mature and than the Fiat 500 on which it is based, the exterior features design elements like double headlamps, a trapezoidal nose, the signature “whiskers and logo” face and the rounded clamshell bonnet paying homage to the original Cinquecento.

The purposeful and distinct Italian design carries through to the interior with clever storage, body-colour instrument panel, a circular cluster display and iconic door handles.

The Pop and Pop Star 500X features Fiat’s 103kW 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II, partnered with a six-speed manual gearbox or six-speed Dry Dual-Clutch Transmission (DDCT) in Pop, and DDCT as standard in Pop Star. Both are offered in front-wheel drive.

The Lounge and Cross Plus 500X are both powered by the 125kW version of Fiat’s 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II, paired with a ZF nine-speed automatic transmission, and both are offered with all-wheel drive.

The Fiat 500X offers more than 60 standard and available safety and security features, including Forward Collision Warning-Plus, LanelauSense Lane Departure Warning-Plus, Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection. Electronic stability control (ESC) with Hill-start Assist and electronic roll mitigation is standard on all models, as are a reversing camera and seven air bags.

Read ForceGT’s Fiat 500X Review here.