2016 Fiat 500X: One of the Most Anticipated Cars of the Year
One vehicle that has car enthusiasts excited is the 2016 Fiat 500X, which is the first in the series to be offered in the United States market. In fact, USA Today even recently described its Trekking model as an ”SUV with spunk.” Motor Trend also named the Fiat 500X a 2016 Motor Trend SUV of the Year contender.
One aspect of it that has plenty of people excited is its optional all-wheel-drive system, which is something that the other Fiat 500 models do not offer. Of course, this feature is of special importance to those located in many of this country’s snowier regions as the improved traction that you enjoy while using an AWD system really helps you get on your way as opposed to being stuck somewhere, freezing and waiting for a tow truck to arrive.
The AWD system also decouples the rear axle during periods when the extra traction that AWD provides is not needed, which helps save fuel. Fortunately, this process is largely imperceptible to the driver.
Electronic stability control, which also helps improve traction and performance in all weather conditions, is also offered with this vehicle, a feature that other Fiat 500 models do have.
In addition to having the cool stylistic look that has become expected of Fiat cars, the 500X handles well. It impressively combines having plenty of power with feeling well connected with the ground beneath its wheels. Its engine also operates pretty quietly, allowing you to better focus on enjoying the trip. However, do note that your ride may not be altogether quiet as some report that the wind noise is noticeably annoying.
The Fiat 500X’s three programmable driving modes may also leave a little bit to be desired. Auto mode does not feel very automatic while sport may be the best default mode to utilize. Of course, the traction mode is specific to when you are driving on slippery, loose surfaces such as those covered in snow.
It does have to be said that its interior is impressive. Those who like a simple sensible layout in which everything is easy to find and, perhaps more importantly, use will enjoy driving this car. Pivotal things that you will glance at periodically such as the speedometer are easy to read at a glance as well. And its heated steering wheel is a definite plus for those living in frigid climates.
The Fiat 500X is available in five models: Pop, Easy, Lounge, Trekking and Trekking Plus. The latter two provide you with a “more athletic look,” according to Fiat’s official 500X webpage. The Pop model is the cheapest, and it has an MSRP of $20.000. The most expensive one is the Trekking Plus, which has an MSRP of $27,100. It will also cost about $1,900 extra to add the optional AWD system.
Another advantage of the Pop model is that it offers the best gas mileage, which is listed as up to 25 mpg on the streets and up to 34 mpg on the highways. The other four models offer 22 mpg and 31 mpg in those respective driving categories. Of course, using an AWD system will decrease those slightly, probably by about 1 mpg.
The Fiat 500X has allowed the Italian company to start competing with similar vehicles such as the Buick Encore, Chevrolet Trax, Jeep Renegade, Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3. It appears that from the building excitement and the mostly positive reviews that the Fiat 500X has received, it has succeeded.
