NEW FOR 2016:
– All-new model.
Fiat’s brand expansion continues for 2016 with the arrival of the all-new 500X subcompact crossover, taking the classic style of the cute and cuddly 500 in a different direction.
Based on the same platform as the Jeep Renegade, the 500X brings an Italian twist to a segment that’s brimming with intriguing options (Juke, anyone?). Its familiar albeit pumped-up styling will appeal to those like the look of the 500, but need more space. As with the 500L, two exterior themes are offered – standard, and Trekking, which adds a fake brush bar to emphasize its go-anywhere inclinations.
Unlike the 500L, the 500X is available with all-wheel drive. While the system isn’t geared for rock-hopping and trail-bashing as it is in the Renegade, the rear axle disconnects to improve fuel economy. All but the most basic of 500Xs receive a drive-mode selector with Sport, Traction+ and Auto modes.
Fiat offers the 500X with two distinct drivetrains. Manual-equipped cars come with a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder which is also used in the 500L and 500 Turbo / Abarth. It’s offered exclusively with front-wheel drive. Automatic models feature ZF’s nine-speed automatic transmission — the same ‘box used in the Jeep Cherokee and Chrysler 200. Automatic models can be had with front or all-wheel drive.
The 500X is available in Pop, Sport, Trekking, Lounge, and Trekking Plus trim levels.
Pop includes 16-inch steel wheels, projector beam headlights, body-colour power heated exterior mirrors, chrome door handles, chrome exhaust tip, rear spoiler, extended driver’s mirror, hill-start assist, alarm, keyless entry, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system, capless fuel filler, air conditioning, six-way adjustable manual front seats, front passenger fold-flat seat, 60/40 split folding rear seat, 3.5-inch in-dash screen with trip computer, power windows, exterior temperature display, four-speaker AM/FM stereo system with USB and aux-in jack, steering wheel mounted audio controls, and tilt and telescoping steering column.
Sport adds 17-inch aluminum wheels, front and rear floor mats, reversible height-adjustable cargo floor, privacy glass, sun visors with vanity mirrors, proximity key with push-button start, automatic headlights, cornering foglights, five-inch touchscreen display audio system, six speakers, satellite radio, Bluetooth, Dynamic Control Selector with three driving modes, and leather-wrapped steering wheel.
AWD adds 2.4-litre MultiAir Tigershark engine and nine-speed automatic.
Trekking adds 17-inch aluminum wheels with painted pockets, premium cloth upholstery, satin metallic instrument panel, accent and body-colour fascias, 3.5-inch colour in-dash display, and dark satin silver door handles.
AWD adds 2.4-litre MultiAir Tigershark engine and nine-speed automatic.
Lounge adds standard 2.4-litre MultiAir Tigershark engine and nine-speed automatic, leather-upholstered seats, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, body-colour instrument panel, eight-way power driver’s seat, ambient interior lighting, chrome window surround, windshield wiper de-icer, Beats Audio premium audio system, auto-dimming rearview mirror, tonneau cover, rear parking sensors, reverse camera.
Trekking Plus adds 18-inch aluminum wheels, accent and body colour fascias, dark satin door handles, and satin metallic instrument panel.
Noteworthy options on various 500X trims include dual-pane sunroof, dual-zone climate control, heated seats, heated steering wheel, windshield wiper de-icer, power eight-way driver’s seat, reverse camera, navigation, compact spare tire, Beats Audio nine-speaker premium audio system with subwoofer, trailer towing package, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring system with cross-traffic alert, and more.
