The 2023 Fiat 500e features a distinctive design reminiscent of the same-named 1950s icon.
Apparently, the EV brand offers two Fiat 500 models: the all-electric Fiat 500e and the ICE counterpart that was rebranded as Fiat 500 Hybrid.
Interestingly, Fiat simply calls the model Fiat 500, New 500, or 500 Electric. It apparently never referred to the model as Fiat 500e. Nonetheless, most people are more familiar with the latter.
Moreover, the model also provided two battery configurations: the more competitive long-range (up to 199 miles) and the short-range version (up to 118 miles). On the other hand, its trim levels are Action, Passion, Icon, and La Prima.
Performance
24kWh battery variant
The base model is equipped with a 24kWh battery pack with a 94bhp electric motor. It has an acceleration time of 0-62mph in 9.5 seconds, substantially slower than modern EV standards. It is efficient in stop-and-go traffic but apparently loses momentum in approaching the freeway speed restrictions.
The 24kWh battery variant enables a 115-mile official range. However, that is not achievable in real-time driving settings, per current driving reviews.
The electric car also features a drive mode switching from normal to Sherpa. However, drivers will only be able to change modes while the EV is stationary.
It must be noted that the 24kWh battery version is only offered in hardtop configuration. Therefore, customers must take the 42kWh battery upgrade if they prefer the convertible Fiat 500.
42kWh battery variant
The more competitive Fiat 500e variant is equipped with a 42kWh battery pack, which offers a 186-199 miles official range on a single charge (depending on the trim level). Moreover, its 117bhp electric motor allows for a 60mph instant acceleration in just 8 seconds. That said, this larger battery version is more suitable for motorway driving. However, it must be noted that it produces a lot of wind noises at quicker speeds, per current driving reviews.
Interior
The seats of the Fiat 500e are relatively high, offering sufficient support in every critical area. However, its steering wheel lacks reach adjustments for models with lower specifications.
Moreover, there is not enough room for the driver’s left foot to relax. If customers want seat-height adjustment and a center armrest, they must opt for the Comfort Seats Pack or choose the top-of-the-line La Prima trim.
Nonetheless, all the trim levels of the Fiat 500e boast standard rear parking sensors. However, the La Prima trim comes standard with Eye Park Pack, which offers additional front and flank sensors and a rear-view camera.
The La Prima trim also comes standard with LED headlights. Meanwhile, it is optional for other trim variants included in the expensive Magic Eye Pack.
The base trim “Action” is equipped with four speakers that can be used by connecting the driver’s phone to a USB port.
Notably, the model offers the DAB radio and a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system included in the optional Radio Pack. For the larger 10.25 inches screen, customers must purchase the top-level trim. The larger infotainment system allows customers to run phone apps through the screen. It has smartphone mirroring for Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
The infotainment system is simple to navigate as it responds promptly when tapping it. On the other hand, the boot lid is substantially smaller in the convertible version, which limits access to the boot. For higher-end Icon and La Prima models, rear seats that fold in half come standard.
Exterior
As mentioned above, the Fiat 500e has the iconic design of the Nuova Cinquecento from the 50s. Nonetheless, the brand added numerous modern touches and twists to the electric car.
Its car’s front has a wrapped grille to improve its speed. It also includes sleek lines that maintain the car’s attractive posture. Interestingly, its headlights are partially merged into the bonnet and integrated taillights.
Looking at the electric car’s side appearance, its indicator is integrated into a tiny projecting fin at the top of the front wheel arches. The vehicle’s design flows a little better because the door handles are integrated into the car’s frame. Interestingly, the gear is released with the push of a button.
More especially, the side profile is accentuated with side skirts and body-colored wheel arches.
Below are the dimensions of the Fiat 500e:
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 3,632mm |
| Width | 1,900mm |
| Height | 1,527mm |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Luggage Capacity (Seats Up) | 185l |
| Gross Vehicle Weight | 1,765kg |
| Wheelbase | 2,322mm |
| Minimum Kerbweight | 1,365kg |
| Max. Loading Weight | 400kg |
| Tyre Size Rear | 5 Series |
| Wheel Type | Turbo |
Other features and extras
The 2023 Fiat 500e La Prima comes standard with the following features:
- 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
- Dusk-sensing LED headlights with auto high beam
- LED daytime-running lights and tail-lights
- 7.0-inch digital instrument display
- 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital radio
- Keyless (sensor-key) entry with push-button start
- Automatic climate-control air conditioning
- Wireless smartphone charger
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Rear-view camera
- Six-speaker sound system
- Panoramic glass roof
- Ice beige “eco-leather” seat trim with Fiat monogram
- Six-way manually-adjustable front seats with heating
- Soft-touch leather-look steering wheel
- Woven dashboard trim panel
- 50:50 split-folding rear seats
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
- Rear privacy glass
- Two USB ports (one USB-A, one USB-C)
- Mode 3 charging cable
- Autonomous emergency breaking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Lane-keep assist
- Lane centring assist
- Adaptive cruise control with stop and go
- Traffic-jam assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Traffic sign recognition
- Intelligent speed limiter
- Driver attention alert
- Tyre pressure monitoring
Available colors:
- Ice White
- Onyx Black
- Ocean Green
- Mineral Grey
- Rose Gold
- Celestial Blue
Pricing
Australian reports state that the 2023 Fiat 500e will reach showrooms in the country between July and September this year. The La Prima trim has a base price of $52,500, excluding on-road costs.
In comparison, its price is two-fold higher than its gas-powered variant. The Dolcevita hatch is apparently priced at $27,220 in Australia, excluding on-road costs.
On the other hand, London-based EV publication TotallyEV provided the following pricing for each trim:
| Action | Passion | Icon | La Prima | |
| Pricing | £20,995 | £24,495 | £25,995 | £27,995 |
As for the convertible upgrade, below are the prices for each trim:
| Passion | Icon | La Prima | |
| Pricing | £27,145 | £28,645 | £30,995 |
Specs
Below are the key specs of the Fiat 500e, according to TopGear’s long-term review:
| Fiat 500e | Engine |
| Top Speed | 93Mph |
| 0–62 | 9s |
| Fuel Delivery | Normally Aspirated |
| Fuel type | Electric |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Engine Capacity | 1cc |
| Engine Code | N |
| Engine Power – BHP | 118bhp |
| Engine Power – KW | 87kW |
| Engine Torque – NM | 220Nm |
| Engine Torque – LB·FT | 162lb·ft |
| Drive Train | Front Wheel Drive |
| Compression Ratio | N |
| Catalytic Convertor | NO |
| Turning Circle – Kerb to Kerb | 9.7 m |
