The Fiat 500e is back in the U.S., now as an all-electric car. While its small size and cute design don't quite match my personal taste, I can't deny that this Italian classic is practical, stylish, and ready to make city driving a lot easier. For drivers who care about the environment and want a fun car to get around town, the 500e could be a great choice.
Looks and Style
The Fiat 500e stands out with its playful design. The "Beauty" model I drove came in a shiny Rose Gold color, which isn't really my style. I would've preferred the "Inspired by Music" model, which comes in a sleek Tuxedo Black. Even though the colors are bold, Fiat allows drivers to express themselves.
Inside, the car feels modern but keeps some of its classic charm. The dashboard and steering wheel remind you of the old Fiat 500 from the 1950s, while the large touchscreen and digital display make it feel up-to-date. The seats are comfy and made with recycled materials, which is a nice touch, but don't expect much legroom in the back—it's not meant to carry many passengers.
Driving and Charging
The 500e has enough power to handle city streets, with 117 horsepower and quick reactions. It's not the fastest electric car out there, but it does the job. You can pick from three driving modes: Normal (for everyday driving), Range (to save battery), and Sherpa (to help you get to your destination when the battery is low).
Its range is about 149 miles on a full charge, which is fine for most people driving around town. Charging is easy, too. With a fast charger, you can add 31 miles in just five minutes or charge up to 80% in about 35 minutes. Fiat also includes a home charger or charging credits to help you get started.
Perfect for City Life
Weighing just over 3,000 pounds, the 500e is the lightest electric car in its class. Its small size makes it easy to drive through tight streets and park in crowded areas, which is super helpful in busy cities like Atlanta. For someone like me who's always trying to outsmart traffic (and usually failing), the 500e is quick and easy to handle.
Tech and Safety
The Fiat 500e is packed with useful tech. It comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless phone charging, and Fiat's easy-to-use Uconnect system. It also has important safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and pedestrian alerts, which help you feel safe and confident while driving.
A Bold Marketing Plan
Fiat is trying something new by releasing the 500e in "product drops." The first was the (RED) model, which helped raise $750 million for HIV and AIDS research. Next up are the "Inspired by Music" and "Inspired by Beauty" trims. This approach is more like how sneakers or fashion items are sold, and it's a fun way to keep people excited about the car.
The Competition
The 500e's main rival is the Mini Cooper SE. The Mini feels a bit bigger and sportier, which I like, but both cars have similar driving ranges and prices. Deciding between them mostly comes down to which style you like more. Personally, I lean toward the Mini for its more muscular design, but the Fiat has its own charm.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Fiat 500e isn't for everyone, which makes it special. It's perfect for drivers who want something fun, stylish, and easy to drive in the city. While its small size and bold colors may not be my first choice, I can see why so many people will love it. The Fiat 500e is more than just a car—it's a conversation starter and a fun way to embrace electric driving.
Specifications
- MSRP $37,595.00
- 0 – 60 mph: 7.8 sec
- Max Range: 140 miles (As Tested, 120 miles)
- Charging: DC Fast Charger: 10-80 % - 35 minutes
- MPGe 121 miles (City), 100 Miles (Hwy)