Fiat 500 Review 2024

Fiat 500 At A Glance

2/5
Honest John Overall Rating
It might be getting on in years, but the Fiat 500 remains hugely appealing in many ways. It has style to spare, and works reasonably well as an everyday car for one person or a couple.

+Stylish and full of character. Really affordable to buy. Low running costs.

-Not very practical. Bouncy ride. Sluggish performance. In-car tech is behind the times.

New prices start from £16,550
Insurance Groups are between 5–19
On average it achieves 76% of the official MPG figure

Believe it or not, the Fiat 500 city car has been around since 2007. Time and massive popularity haven’t dimmed its character or retro-chic appeal – indeed, it’s a mark of how right the design was that only small changes have been made over the years. But does the Fiat 500 still have the substance to back up its style?

In some ways, the Fiat 500 has always been a bit compromised because of its shape. That’s most obvious inside. Although there is pretty generous space up front, the back seats are only really suitable for children, and the boot is barely big enough for a single, medium-sized suitcase.

However, since most Fiat 500 owners are single people or couples, that tends not to be an issue. They can simply place excess luggage onto the back seat, or leave it permanently folded down.

The Fiat 500’s interior still looks just as stylish as its exterior, and many of the surfaces are pleasantly tactile. Body-coloured dashboard trim and a standard panoramic glass roof really lift the ambience, too. Build quality is very good.

The Fiat 500’s dining chair-like seating position won’t suit everyone, but it’s very easy to drive and a bit of a giggle with it. Around town, it’s light and zippy, and few cars are so easy to park. Out of town, it feels trustworthy in corners and generally rides smoothly, although really bumpy roads can make it quite bouncy.

It’s quite an involved process, driving the Fiat 500. You can feel how the car is interacting with the road and the engine needs to be worked hard to maintain progress. That won’t suit everyone, but it can be good fun.        

Speaking of the engine, there’s just one currently available in the Fiat 500: the 1.0-litre GSE petrol engine with a mild-hybrid system. It only produces 70PS, but the electric boost of the hybrid system makes for quite nippy acceleration around town. On faster roads it starts to feel quite sluggish, but the engine is designed to stand up to the thrashing it needs to maintain higher speeds. The six-speed manual gearbox is lovely to use, too. Looking to go electric? Check out the Fiat 500 Electric

Running costs for the Fiat 500 are very low. Average fuel economy of 60mpg is possible, and servicing won’t cost much.

There are three models to choose from: the regular 500, 500 Top and 500 (RED). All come pretty well-equipped for this type of car, with standard features including air conditioning, cruise control and a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. It’s not the best system, but it’s still useful to have something more than just a basic stereo.

Mid-range Top specification adds satellite navigation, rear parking sensors and alloy wheels. The (RED) has the same features, plus some extra elements that make the interior a healthier environment for its occupants. Buying one also helps raise money for the (RED) health charity.

At the time of writing, the Fiat 500 range is priced from just under £17,000 to just over £18,000, making it one of the most affordable new cars in the UK. We reckon it’s very good value – even more so if you take advantage of one of the hefty discounts that are currently available.

The Fiat 500 has always been a car that is bought with the heart, rather than the head. It’s just so cute and characterful, and it’s always enjoyable to spend time with one. It’s not perfect by any means. But if it really appeals to you, we don’t think you’ll regret choosing one.

Fiat 500 handling and engines

Driving Rating
The Fiat 500 is a great town car that feels peppy and nimble. It’s perfectly fine on country roads and motorways, and even quite fun, but performance is modest and the ride is bouncy.

Fiat 500 2024: Handling and ride quality

The Fiat 500 has quite an odd driving position. The driver’s seat is mounted high off the floor and you sit bolt upright. It’s like being on a dining chair instead of the sofa-like driving position most other cars have. It actually helps increase the amount of space inside the car, but it does take some getting used to.

Unsurprisingly, the Fiat 500 is at its best when driving around town. The steering is nice and light – even more so if you press the ‘City’ button, which boosts power steering assistance so that you can easily turn the wheel with one finger. The car feels really nimble, the view out is almost panoramic, and there are few cars as easy to park or thread down a narrow street.

Venture out of town onto faster roads and the Fiat 500 acquits itself pretty well. The steering lacks a couple of degrees of responsiveness compared to a Mini, the car’s body leans over noticeably in corners and the seats don’t provide much support.

However, the 500 goes where you want it to and there’s loads of grip from the tyres, so you quickly build confidence in its abilities. On the right road, it can be a hoot to punt along, even at relatively low speeds.

The suspension provides quite a firm ride, although not uncomfortably so. It soaks up bumps and potholes reasonably well at town speeds, and rides smoothly on most faster roads. However, the car can become decidedly unsettled on a bumpy country road.

On motorways, the Fiat 500 feels perfectly safe and stable, but its sluggish performance can make long journeys a bit tiresome.

Fiat 500 2024: Engines

An extensive range of petrol and diesel engines has been available in the Fiat 500 over the years, but there’s now just one: the 1.0-litre GSE. It’s a three-cylinder petrol engine that produces a modest 70PS and 92Nm of torque. Fitted to a six-speed manual gearbox, it drives the front wheels.

With this engine, Fiat calls the 500 a hybrid, but in reality it’s only a mild hybrid. Rather than being able to drive on electric power alone like a ‘full’ hybrid, a mild-hybrid has an extra electrical system to assist the engine when pulling away from a standstill, and power many of the car’s on-board electrics. The effect is to improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions.

That boost from the mild hybrid system means the 500 feels peppy when driving around town, but it’s less enthusiastic on faster roads. Accelerating from 0-62mph takes a leisurely 13.8 seconds.

As a result, you have to work the engine quite hard to maintain decent progress on a country road or motorway. Fortunately, it laps up that kind of treatment while remaining relatively smooth. It also makes an amusingly growly noise.  

Fiat 500 2024: Safety

When the Fiat 500 was first assessed by safety experts Euro NCAP way back in 2007, it scored a full five-star rating. A decade later in 2017, the car was reassessed and NCAP downgraded its rating to just three stars.

Why? Well, during the intervening years, Euro NCAP had changed its test procedures and judging criteria. So, while the 500 performed well in the old tests, it wasn’t quite up to the mark in the new, tougher assessment.

It also lacks some of the modern safety features that Euro NCAP likes to see in a car, such as automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist. These are fitted as standard to more recent city cars, including the Toyota Aygo X.

Safety features that are fitted to the 500 include seven airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control.  

Fiat 500 2024: Towing

In years gone by, it has been possible to fit a towbar to a Fiat 500 and pull up to 830kg. However, the current version of the 500 with its mild-hybrid powertrain isn’t cleared (or homologated, to use the technical term) for towing. You’ll have to holiday in a static caravan instead.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
0.9 TwinAir 105 67 mpg 10.0 s 99 g/km
0.9 TwinAir 85 60–74 mpg 11.0 s 90–106 g/km
0.9 TwinAir 85 Dualogic 71–74 mpg 11.0 s 88–92 g/km
1.0 MHEV - 13.8 s 88–119 g/km
1.2 49–66 mpg 12.9–13.0 s 99–122 g/km
1.2 Automatic 61 mpg 13.0 s 108 g/km
1.2 Dualogic 54–63 mpg 12.9–13.0 s 105–122 g/km
1.3 MultiJet 75 67 mpg 12.5 s 110 g/km
1.3 MultiJet 95 72–83 mpg 10.7 s 89–104 g/km
1.4 49 mpg 10.5 s 135 g/km
1.4 Dualogic 50 mpg 10.5 s 130 g/km

Real MPG average for the Fiat 500

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

76%

Real MPG

35–74 mpg

MPGs submitted

667

Fiat 500 interior

Interior Rating
The Fiat 500 has a generous amount of room in the front, but the back seats and boot are tiny. Its interior is as stylish and tactile as ever, and feels well made. A dated infotainment system lets the side down.
Dimensions
Length 3546–3571 mm
Width 1627–1893 mm
Height 1488 mm
Wheelbase 2300 mm

Full specifications

Fiat 500 2024: Practicality

There’s a remarkable amount of space in the Fiat 500’s front seats. They’re mounted quite high off the floor, which creates a vast amount of legroom, yet there is plenty of headroom as well. The trade-off is a bolt-upright driving position that won’t suit everyone. It’s also a narrow car, so shoulder room is at a premium.

There are only two seats in the back of the 500 and they don’t offer much space. There’s enough for someone less than five feet tall, but anyone much larger than that will feel cramped by the lack of legroom and headroom. Each back seat has a pair of Isofix mounts, but installing a bulky child car seat takes careful manoeuvring.

Similarly, the boot is tiny, with a total capacity of just 185 litres – not the smallest you’ll find in a city car, but significantly less than rivals such as the Kia Picanto. A few shopping bags or a couple of carry-on suitcases will fit, but not much more than that. At least the opening is large and square, so it’s easy to drop bags in.

The rear seats fold down if you need more luggage space. Indeed it’s not unknown for owners to treat the Fiat 500 as a two-seat car and leave the back bench permanently folded. In that format, the 500 becomes a lot more practical.  

Fiat 500 2024: Quality and finish

It’s easy to write-off the Fiat 500’s huge slab of body-coloured dashboard trim as a design gimmick, but there’s a lovely tactility to it. Regular cleaning is needed, though, because fingerprints show really clearly on its surface.

That tactility carries through to much of the rest of the interior. The seat upholstery feels quite upmarket, while all the buttons, knobs and controls you use most regularly feel nice to the touch. There are some cheaper hard plastics lower down in the interior, yet none of that detracts from the stylish and fun ambience.

The cabin is very solidly bolted together, so you won’t have any concerns about it standing up to hard use. Just be aware that white steering wheels can become very dirty, very quickly. It’s not the most practical of options... 

Fiat 500 2024: Infotainment

All Fiat 500s have the same Uconnect infotainment system, with a 7.0-inch touchscreen display in the centre of the dashboard. Features include DAB radio and Bluetooth, or you can connect your phone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to use whichever navigation or audio streaming apps you prefer. Top and (RED) models also have built-in satellite navigation. You can view useful information about the vehicle through the system, too.

There aren’t many menus to search through to locate the features or information you want, but the icons are quite small and the graphics are a bit dark and fuzzy. Some of the 500’s more recent rivals have high-definition screens that look much brighter and clearer in comparison. The screen takes a short while to respond as well.

It’s not the best infotainment system, then, but it’s better than the basic stereo unit that some other city cars come with.

Top and (RED) models also have a 7.0-inch digital driver’s display that shows assorted driving and vehicle info, along with music selections and your phone book. Much like the dashboard screen, it’s not especially bright or clear, but it’s still a useful feature to have.   

Fiat 500 value for money

Value for Money Rating
The Fiat 500 is one of the most affordable new cars available in the UK and excellent value for money. Running costs are very low, too.

Fiat 500 2024: Prices

At the time of writing, prices for the three-model Fiat 500 range start at £16,790 and stretch to £18,290. That makes it one of the most affordable new cars you can buy in the UK right now. It’s certainly the most stylish car available for that kind of money, and comes better equipped than many of its rivals.

Not that you have to spend even that much, because there are some substantial discounts available on pre-registered 500s. We’ve seen dealers offering as much as £4000 off the list price, making the 500 almost unbeatable value.

Fiat 500 2024: Running Costs

In its current form, the Fiat 500 can cost very little to run. The official figures show it can achieve average fuel economy of 60.1mpg. Allowing for some disparity with driving in the real world, you should still see more than 50mpg on a regular basis. Even by the high standards of city cars, that’s very good.

CO2 emissions are rated at 106g/km, which translates to annual vehicle excise duty charge (VED, or road tax) of £190 for private owners. Benefit-in-kind tax rates for company drivers are perfectly reasonable, given the car’s low P11D value.

The Fiat 500 is an uncomplicated car, so servicing costs should be low. You’re covered by a manufacturer’s warranty lasting three years or 60,000 miles should anything go wrong.

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Fiat 500 models and specs

Fiat periodically changes the names of the various Fiat 500 models, most recently in early 2023. The current, three-tier range consists of the Fiat 500, 500 Top and 500 (RED).

The entry-level 500 comes decently equipped. Among its standard features are a Uconnect infotainment system with a 7.0-inch touchscreen display, DAB radio, Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto phone connectivity.

It also has air conditioning, cruise control, electric front windows, electrically-adjustable heated door mirrors and a fixed panoramic glass roof.

Upgrading to the Fiat 500 Top adds more kit that you may feel is worth paying for. The list includes 16-inch alloy wheels, built-in satellite navigation, a 7.0-inch digital driver’s display, climate control air-con and rear parking sensors.

The 500 (RED) is a tie-in with the health charity of the same name. Every time one is purchased, Fiat makes a donation to the charity, aiding its efforts to fight global health problems such as Covid-19 and AIDS.

It has the same standard features as the 500 Top, plus a few niceties that help make the car a healthier environment for occupants. They include a cabin air filter, an antibacterial treatment on interior surfaces and a dispenser for hand sanitiser.

Dimensions
Length 3546–3571 mm
Width 1627–1893 mm
Height 1488 mm
Wheelbase 2300 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 865–1100 kg
Boot Space 180–550 L
Warranty 3 years
Servicing 9000–18000 miles
Spare Wheel
Standard Space-saving spare wheel
Costs
List Price £16,550–£18,290
Insurance Groups 5–19
Road Tax Bands A–E
Official MPG 48.7–83.1 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult 5
Child 3
Pedestrian 2
Overall 3

Currently on sale

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Entry 70 12v MHEV Start/Stop 3dr £16,550 - -
Red 70 12v MHEV Start/Stop 3dr £16,735 - 13.8 s
Top 70 12v MHEV Start/Stop 3dr £18,290 - -

On sale until December 2022

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Connect 70 12v MHEV Start/Stop 3dr £15,735 - 13.8 s
Dolcevita Plus 70 12v MHEV Start/Stop 3dr £17,235 - 13.8 s
Hey Google 70 12v MHEV Start/Stop 3dr £16,735 - 13.8 s
mHEV 1.0 70hp Lounge Doclv 3dr £17,000 - 13.8 s
mHEV 1.0 70hp Pop 3dr £13,020 - 13.8 s
mHEV 1.0 70hp Sport 3dr £14,920 - 13.8 s

On sale until April 2021

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.2 69hp Lounge Dualogic 3dr - 54.3 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Pop Dualogic 3dr - 54.3 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Rock Star Dualogic 3dr - 62.8 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Sport Dualogic 3dr - - 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Star Dualogic 3dr - 62.8 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Star Dualogic Doclv 3dr - - 12.9 s
mHEV 1.0 70hp Launch Edition 3dr £17,150 - 13.8 s
mHEV 1.0 70hp Lounge 3dr £14,750 - 13.8 s
mHEV 1.0 70hp Rock Star 3dr £16,420 - 13.8 s
mHEV 1.0 70hp Star 3dr £16,250 - 13.8 s

On sale until July 2020

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
0.9 85hp Twinair Lounge 3dr - 60.1 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 85HP Twinair Rock Star 3dr - 74.3 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 85HP Twinair Star 3dr - 74.3 mpg 11.0 s
1.2 69hp Dolcevita 3dr - 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Lounge 3dr - 57.6 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Pop 3dr - 53.3 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69HP Rock Star 3dr - 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69HP Star 3dr - 60.1 mpg 12.9 s

On sale until October 2019

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
0.9 85hp Twinair S 3dr - 60.1 mpg 11.0 s
1.2 69 Collezione Fall Dualogic 3dr £14,960 52.3 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp 120th 3dr - 48.7 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp 120th Dualogic 3dr - - 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Collezione Fall 3dr £14,060 53.3 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Pop Star 3dr £12,685 57.6 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Pop Star Dualogic 3dr £13,585 54.3 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp S 3dr - 53.3 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp S Dualogic 3dr - 54.3 mpg 12.9 s

On sale until January 2019

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
0.9 105hp Twinair Lounge 3dr £15,115 67.3 mpg 10.0 s
0.9 105hp Twinair Riva 3dr £18,465 67.3 mpg 10.0 s
0.9 105hp Twinair S 3dr £15,265 67.3 mpg 10.0 s
0.9 85hp Twinair Lounge Dualogic 3dr £15,515 74.3 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 85hp Twinair Pop Star 3dr £13,740 74.3 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 85hp Twinair Pop Star Dualogic 3dr £14,590 74.3 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 85hp Twinair Riva 3dr £17,965 74.3 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 85hp Twinair Riva Dualogic 3dr £18,815 74.3 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 85hp Twinair S Dualogic 3dr £15,665 74.3 mpg 11.0 s
1.2 69 Anniversario Dualogic 3dr £15,115 62.8 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Anniversario 3dr £14,265 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Collezione 3dr £14,060 54.3 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Collezione Dualogic 3dr £14,960 54.3 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Denim Edition 3dr £12,950 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Lounge Eco 3dr £13,445 65.7 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Mirror II 3dr £13,965 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Mirror II Dualogic 3dr £14,865 62.8 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Pop Star Eco 3dr £12,445 65.7 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Riva 3dr £16,715 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Riva Dualogic 3dr £17,565 62.8 mpg 12.9 s
1.3 95hp Multijet Lounge 3dr £15,865 83.1 mpg 10.7 s
1.3 95hp Multijet Pop Star 3dr £14,990 83.1 mpg 10.7 s
1.3 95hp Multijet S 3dr £16,015 83.1 mpg 10.7 s

On sale until November 2018

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.2 69hp Mirror 3dr £12,640 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 69hp Mirror Dualogic 3dr £13,490 62.8 mpg 12.9 s

On sale until June 2016

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.2 69hp Pop Dualogic 3dr £11,925 62.8 mpg 13.0 s

On sale until October 2015

Convertible
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Cult 0.9 TwinAir 105 3dr £18,020 67.3 mpg 10.0 s
Cult 0.9 TwinAir 85 3dr £17,540 70.6 mpg 11.0 s
Cult 0.9 TwinAir 85 Dualogic 3dr Auto £18,290 72.4 mpg 11.0 s
Cult 1.2 69 3dr £16,240 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
Cult 1.2 69 Dualogic 3dr Auto £16,990 61.4 mpg 13.0 s
Cult 1.3 MultiJet 95 3dr £18,640 78.5 mpg 10.7 s
Pop Star 0.9 TwinAir 105 3dr £15,995 67.3 mpg 10.0 s
Pop Star 0.9 TwinAir 85 3dr £15,515 70.6 mpg 11.0 s
Pop Star 0.9 TwinAir 85 Dualogic 3dr Auto £16,265 72.4 mpg 11.0 s
Pop Star 1.2 69 3dr £14,215 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
Pop Star 1.2 69 Dualogic 3dr Auto £14,695 61.4 mpg 13.0 s
Pop Star 1.3 MultiJet 3dr £16,615 78.5 mpg 10.7 s
S 0.9 TwinAir 105 3dr £17,020 67.3 mpg 10.0 s
Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Cult 0.9 TwinAir 105 3dr £15,370 67.3 mpg 10.0 s
Cult 0.9 TwinAir 85 3dr £14,890 70.6 mpg 11.0 s
Cult 0.9 TwinAir 85 Dualogic 3dr Auto £15,640 72.4 mpg 11.0 s
Cult 1.2 69 3dr £13,590 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
Cult 1.2 69 Dualogic 3dr Auto £14,340 61.4 mpg 13.0 s
Cult 1.3 MultiJet 95 3dr £15,990 78.5 mpg 10.7 s
Lounge 0.9 TwinAir 105 3dr £14,220 67.3 mpg 10.0 s
Lounge 0.9 TwinAir 85 3dr £13,740 70.6 mpg 11.0 s
Lounge 0.9 TwinAir 85 Dualogic 3dr Auto £14,490 72.4 mpg 11.0 s
Lounge 1.2 69 3dr £12,440 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
Lounge 1.2 69 Dualogic 3dr Auto £13,190 61.4 mpg 13.0 s
Lounge 1.3 MultiJet 95 3dr £14,840 78.5 mpg 10.7 s
Pop 1.2 69 3dr £10,690 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
Pop 1.2 69 Dualogic 3dr Auto £11,440 61.4 mpg 13.0 s
S 0.9 TwinAir 105 3dr £14,370 67.3 mpg 10.0 s
S 0.9 TwinAir 85 3dr £13,890 70.6 mpg 11.0 s
S 0.9 TwinAir 85 Dualogic 3dr Auto £14,640 72.4 mpg 11.0 s
S 1.2 69 3dr £12,590 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
S 1.2 69 Dualogic 3dr Auto £13,340 61.4 mpg 13.0 s
S 1.3 MultiJet 95 3dr £14,990 78.5 mpg 10.7 s
Vintage 57 0.9 85 3dr £13,845 70.6 mpg 11.0 s
Vintage 57 0.9 85 Auto 3dr £14,595 72.4 mpg 11.0 s
Vintage 57 1.2 69 3dr £12,545 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
Vintage 57 1.2 69 Auto 3dr £13,295 61.4 mpg 13.0 s

On sale until April 2015

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Colour Therapy 0.9 TwinAir 85 3dr £12,420 70.6 mpg 11.0 s
Colour Therapy 0.9 TwinAir 85 Dualogic 3dr Auto £13,170 72.4 mpg 11.0 s
Colour Therapy 1.2 69 3dr £11,220 58.9 mpg 12.9 s
Colour Therapy 1.2 69 Dualogic 3dr Auto £11,970 60.1 mpg 13.0 s
GQ 0.9 TwinAir 105 3dr £15,550 67.3 mpg 10.0 s
GQ 0.9 TwinAir 85 3dr £15,070 70.6 mpg 11.0 s
GQ 1.2 69 3dr £13,670 58.9 mpg 12.9 s
GQ 1.3 16v Multijet 95 3dr £16,070 76.3 mpg 10.7 s

On sale until September 2014

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Pop 1.3 MultiJet 95 3dr £12,560 76.3 mpg 10.7 s

On sale until March 2013

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
0.9 TwinAir Street 3dr £12,760 70.6 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 TwinAir Street Dualogic 3dr £13,510 72.4 mpg 11.0 s
1.2 Street 3dr £11,360 58.9 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 Street Dualogic 3dr £12,110 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
1.3 MultiJet Street 3dr £13,760 76.3 mpg 10.7 s

On sale until August 2012

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
0.9 TwinAir 3dr £11,660 68.9 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 TwinAir Dualogic 3dr Auto £12,410 70.6 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 TwinAir Plus 3dr £12,760 68.9 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 TwinAir Plus Dualogic 3dr Auto £13,510 70.6 mpg 11.0 s

On sale until April 2012

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
0.9 TwinAir Pop 3dr £11,160 68.9 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 TwinAir Pop Dualogic 3dr £11,910 70.6 mpg 11.0 s

On sale until December 2011

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.4 Lounge 3dr £12,705 48.7 mpg 10.5 s
1.4 Lounge Dualogic 3dr Auto £13,450 50.4 mpg 10.5 s

On sale until August 2011

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
0.9 TwinAir Pop 3dr £11,100 68.9 mpg 11.0 s
0.9 TwinAir Pop Dualogic 3dr Auto £11,845 70.6 mpg 11.0 s

On sale until July 2011

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.2 Sport 3dr £11,300 58.9 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 Sport Dualogic 3dr Auto £12,045 60.1 mpg 12.9 s
1.3 MultiJet Sport 3dr £13,465 72.4 mpg 10.7 s
1.4 Sport 3dr £12,470 48.7 mpg 10.5 s
1.4 Sport Dualogic 3dr Auto £13,215 50.4 mpg 10.5 s

On sale until November 2010

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.4 Pop 3dr £10,865 48.7 mpg 10.5 s
1.4 Pop Dualogic 3dr Auto £11,595 50.4 mpg 10.5 s

On sale until January 2010

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.3 MultiJet Lounge 3dr £13,100 - -
1.3 MultiJet Pop 3dr £11,700 67.3 mpg 12.5 s

On sale until October 2009

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.2 Start&Stop 3dr £10,100 58.9 mpg 12.9 s
1.2 Start&Stop 3dr Auto £10,100 - -
1.3 MultiJet Sport 3dr £13,100 67.3 mpg 12.5 s

Model History

September 2007

New Fiat 500 unveiled

70PS 1.2 8v, 100PS 1.4 16v (as Panda 100HP) and 75PS 1.3 Multijet diesel at Euro launch in summer 2007. In UK from early 2008. Later engines to include 900cc two cylinder turbocharged petrol developing 90bhp to 110bhp and 120Nm torque, said to be capable of 60mpg and shared with new Ford Ka which also shares the 500's floorpan.

3,550mm long by 1,650mm wide by 1,490mm high. Standard equipment of the entry-level Pop includes ABS anti-lock brakes with EBD, driver, passenger, side and drivers knee airbags, radio/CD/MP3 player, power steering, electric mirrors, colour coded bumpers and chrome-plated door handles. Options include ESP, glass sunroof, a/c metallic paint and parking sensors.

Standard equipment on both Sport and Lounge versions includes the Blue & MeTM hands-free media system, air conditioning and 15 alloy wheels. Sport specification includes a rear roof spoiler, fog lights, sports interior and dark tinted rear windows, standard climate control, rear head restraints and colour coded heated door mirrors. Lounge trim includes a leather steering wheel, split folding rear seat and fixed glass roof.

January 2008

500 goes on sale in the UK

  • 1.2 Pop £7900
  • 1.2 Sport £9300
  • 1.2 Lounge £9300
  • 1.3 MultiJet Pop £9300
  • 1.4 Pop £9300
  • 1.3 MultiJet Sport £10,700
  • 1.3 MultiJet Lounge £10,700
  • 1.4 Sport £10,700
  • 1.4 Lounge £10,700

Dualogic autoclutch option available on 1.2.

December 2008

Fiat 500byDIESEL introduced

Limited to 10,000 examples only available to order online. Collaboration between Fiats Style Centre in Turin and fashion label DIESELs design team.

Based on a Fiat 500 Sport version, the 500byDIESEL comes in metallic green, black or brown. The exterior features 16-inch alloy wheels with the DIESEL logo, brake callipers painted yellow (an option only on the 100 bhp 1.4 version), unique side trim with DIESEL wording, and special door mirror fairings.

Inside, theres special upholstery in denim fabric. The label logo also appears on the instrument panel and gear knob, while a special pouch, reminiscent of the fifth pocket on DIESEL jeans, appears on the side of the front seats. In-car entertainment comes courtesy of Fiats Blue&Me hands-free telecommunications and entertainment technology, which means the car is eco:Drive compatible. The 500byDIESEL is available with all three Euro 5-ready power units in the Fiat 500 range - the 69 bhp 1.2 unit, 75 bhp 1.3 MultiJet Diesel with DPF, and a 100 bhp 1.4 16v engine. Prices start at £11,150.

February 2009

Fiat 500 Start&Stop launched

Based on the most successful 500 version - the 1.2 Lounge - and benefits from the combined expertise of automotive parts specialist Bosch and Fiat Powertrain Technologies. The Start&Stop system stops the engine automatically (without the driver turning an ignition key) whenever traffic conditions bring the car to a complete halt, and restarts it when the driver wants to move off again.

Available at £9,500 OTR, the 500 Start&Stop becomes the most ecological version in the Fiat 500 petrol range. With Start&Stop, CO2 emissions on the 1.2 engine are just 113 g/km, while fuel consumption can be reduced by up to 12 per cent, averaging 58.9mpg combined.

February 2010

75PS Multijet engine replaced by 95PS Multijet II

It now has Fiat Start&Stop technology to further reduce fuel consumption when driving around town. The new unit introduces an innovative variable geometry turbocharger that enables it to deliver 95bhp at 4000rpm and 200Nm of torque at only 1,500rpm. This output significantly improves the car's performance, taking its top speed to 112mph and reducing the 0-62mph acceleration time from 12.5 to just 10.7 seconds.

Fuel consumption is improved from 67.3mpg to 72.4mpg in the combined cycle, while emissions drop from 110g/km to 104g/km of CO2. Together with Start&Stop, the engine also includes a modified DPF particulate filter for improved emissions efficiency and effectiveness from a cold start.

July 2010

Fiat 500 BlackJack launched

First car in its class to offer factory matt black, and is one of several Fiat 500 limited editions being introduced this year. Based on the 1.2 and 1.4 Sport, the Fiat 500 BlackJack features:

  • Individual matt black paint finish
  • Mouldings, door handles, door mirrors and plate holder in metallic effect
  • 16-inch alloy wheels in matt black with red coach line
  • Red brake callipers (1.4 only)
  • Special carpet mats

The 500 BlackJack – like all current Fiat 500s – comes as standard with Fiat’s Start&Stop, which stops the engine automatically whenever traffic conditions bring the car to a complete halt, and restarts it immediately the driver wants to move off again. The new car costs £12,165 OTR (1.2) and £13,565 OTR (1.4).

May 2011

500byGucci introduced

Will be available in the UK with two engines: the economical 1.2 litre – which will cost £14,565 OTR – and the award-winning 0.9 litre TwinAir, priced at £15,765 OTR.

Initially the new car will be available exclusively on-line. The fully automated on-line sales scheme allows customers to configure a 500byGucci, pay a deposit, order it directly from the factory, track the car’s progress, make a final payment and even arrange special delivery of the car to their home.

June 2011

500 TwinAir became a separate 500 model

The 500 TwinAir is enhanced by black alloy wheels, burnished metal effects on dashboard and front and rear mouldings, spoiler, chrome exhaust pipe and sports seats.

The TwinAir range comes in both 500 (hatchback) and 500C (convertible) versions and will only be available in vibrant colours such as Pearlescent Red, Tropicalia Yellow and Electroclash Grey. A special colour, Midnight Black, is available only on the TwinAir Plus model.

Specifically, the two specification levels are characterised by:

TwinAir at £11,600:

  • Sporty looking mouldings and metallic effect dashboard
  • Sport kit (chrome exhaust pipe, spoiler)
  • Sport seats
  • Black interior surround
  • 15-inch matt black alloy wheels
  • Air conditioning

TwinAir Plus at £12,700:

  • 16-inch matt black alloy wheels
  • Automatic climate control instead of air conditioning
  • Blue&Me
  • Sport leather steering wheel with eight commands
  • Leather gear knob
  • Dark tinted windows
  • Body coloured door mirrors

July 2012

New colours added

The Fiat 500 has been further improved with a range of bold new colours and upgraded interior trims that better match the exterior. Six new colours are introduced: Countrypolitan Yellow and New Age Cream solid paints, and Groove Metal Grey, Epic Blue, Chillout Purple and Idol Pink metallics.

New Chocolate brown/Ivory fabric and Grey/Black fabric interior trim has also been introduced for the interior. New two-tone leather trims will be available at the end of the year, replacing and enhancing the current leather finishes. A new ‘short-fin design’ antenna and 15-inch alloy wheels are also part of the design upgrade. Despite the product improvements, prices for the Fiat 500 have not changed.

August 2012

500 Colour Therapy range launched

The spirit of the 1970s is back as Fiat 500 launches an all-new retro-chic ‘Colour Therapy’ range, aimed at the young, cool and trendy who remain uninspired by bland, conventional city cars. The new ‘70s infused collection is a must-have car for style-conscious drivers, mixing the latest technology and features with classic, chic, retro design and colour combinations.

There are five striking statement colours from vibrant Pasodoble Red and Countrypolitan Yellow, to the pastel Volare Blue, New Age Cream and Tech House Grey. These bold design upgrades draw inspiration from ‘70s fashion and trends, while funky retro white detailing such as cool white wheel covers or alloys, old-school white mirror covers and a ‘pool ball’ gear knob help bring back the fun, vibrant and colourful era of the decadeand make this car a retro-lover’s dream.

August 2012

Fiat 500 Street joins range

Aimed at sports-minded customers who want all the style, economy and comfort of the popular Fiat 500 but with a striking new look, the 500 Street comes equipped with dark tinted windows, alloy wheels and satin chrome finished mouldings, handles and door mirrors.

Powered by the economical 1.2-litre petrol, award-winning 0.9-litre TwinAir or the potent 1.3-litre MultiJet 2 diesel engine, new Fiat 500 Street is available in a choice of five colours: Bossanova White, Pasodoble Red, Crossover Black, Electroclash Grey or Matt Black.

At just £11,360 OTR (1.2), £12,760 OTR (TwinAir) and £13,760 OTR (1.3), the new hatchback-only model is priced the same as the 500 Lounge version. Costing £1400 more than the 500 Pop, the car gets £1800 worth of extra equipment including air conditioning, sports seats, 16-inch alloy wheels, Blue&Me infotainment, leather steering wheel with radio controls, and rear spoiler.

April 2013

Fiat 500S now available with front restyled below bumper line and standard body kit. Also gets grey finish 15-inch alloys with 185/55 R15 tyres, sports seats with red stitching, Abarth style leather covers steering wheel, chrome gearknob, dark chrome plated door handles and rear number plate light bar, black headlining, metallic effect dashpanel, plus Lounge spec Bluetooth, a/c, 50/50 split rear seatbacks, etc. 500S Prices: 1.2: £11,360; TwinAir: £12,760; 1.3 Multijet: £13,760.

February 2015

Fiat 500 Vintage 57 special edition announced

Gets two tone pain and retro-look solid alloy wheels.

July 2015

Revised Fiat 500 revealed

Available in two body styles (hatchback and convertible), the new 500 will be available in three trim levels: Pop, Pop Star and Lounge. All models have LED daytime running lights, seven airbags and a Uconnect infotainment system with six speakers, AUX-IN/USB ports and steering wheel remote controls as standard equipment.

The Pop Star version in the UK adds air conditioning, body-colour mirror caps with defrosting function and 15-inch alloy wheels, while the Lounge version adds sophisticated features such as a panoramic glass sunroof, rear parking sensors, a chrome front grille, front fog lights, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and a Uconnect 5” LIVE touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration and numerous built-in apps to help users stay safely connected while on the move.

The engine line-up at launch includes a 0.9-litre TwinAir engine (85hp or 105hp) and a 1.2-litre 69hp unit. The two-cylinder engines boast exceptional efficiency – 90g/km for the 85hp engine and 99g/km for the 105hp unit – while a new ‘Eco’ configurations of the 1.2 litre 69hp (available after the launch) will reduce emissions to 99 grams of CO2 per kilometre. TwinAir 105HP has a 6-speed manual transmission. Other petrol engines 5-speed manual.

June 2017

Fiat 500 Anniversario launched

To celebrate the 60th birthday of the Fiat 500 a new special series, the Fiat 500 Anniversario, has been launched

The Fiat 500 Anniversario is available as a hatchback or a convertible and honours the 1957 Italian-made icon with a contemporary re-interpretation of the stylistic features that made it famous in the Dolce Vita years.

This new special series has a sixties look that references some of the key historic characteristics of the car, such as the two new exclusive colours, Sicilia Orange and Riviera Green, the chrome accents on the bonnet and door mirror caps, the vintage Fiat logos and the 16-inch vintage alloy wheels.

An alternative 16-inch diamond finish alloy wheel is also available, as a no cost option, offering a modern take on the spokes of classic car wheels. Inside, the new seats channel the retro style with horizontal striped fabric, contrast piping in body colour and an embroidered 500 logo, while the body-coloured dashboard and "Anniversario" embroidered floor mats complete the look.

With automatic climate control, cruise control and rear parking sensors as standard, customers can also specify the optional Tech Pack, which includes the 7-inch TFT instrument panel, the Uconnect 7-inch HD LIVE radio, Apple Car Play and Android Auto TM , and satnav on request.

Available in combination with the 1.2-litre 69PS petrol engine, the Fiat 500 Anniversario returns 60.1mpg on the combined cycle, emitting just 110g/km CO2, combined with the Dualogic gearbox this reduces to 105g/km CO2, while returning 62.8mpg.

January 2018

Fiat 500 Mirror introduced

Gets UconnectTMLINK technology which is Apple CarPlay-ready and compatible with Android AutoTM as standard.

Available for the first time on a Fiat model, Mopar Connect combines remote assistance services and control functions in one app, to guarantee peace of mind when on the road and away from the car.

The Fiat 500 Mirror special edition is based on the Lounge trim and is available as a convertible or hatchback. It is available in all the body colours of the 500 Lounge range, with the addition of Electronica Blue.

This new version adds chrome mirror caps and 16-inch alloy wheels to the exterior as well as a 7-inch TFT instrument cluster and exclusive black upholstery with white details to the interior. The 500 Mirror is available exclusively in combination with the 1.2 69hp petrol engine.

March 2018

Fiat 500 Collezione launched

Available both as a hatch and a convertible, it features chrome trim on the front bumper, bonnet and mirror caps and exclusive 16-inch alloy wheels as standard. Several optional cool liveries can be chosen, including the new two-colour Primavera (Bossa Nova White and Lunar Grey), the two-colour Acquamarina (Bossa Nova White and Smooth Mint) and Taormina Ivory, as well as Bossa Nova White White and Epic Blue. A chrome Collezione logo autographs the boot to complete the look.

The interior has a body coloured dashboard: white in combination with Primavera and mint in the combination with Acquamarina. The seats are also in two colours, with a grey striped base and ivory upper section, and are embroidered with the 500 logo. The Collezione logo also appears inside, embroidered on the floor mats. The new Fiat 500 Collezione offers the latest connectivity and technology: customers can specify options including the Uconnect 7-inch HD LIVE radio, which is Apple CarPlay TM ready and Android Auto TM compatible, integrated Tom Tom navigation, and Beats Audio Hi-Fi system.

The Fiat 500 Collezione was available exclusively in combination with the 1.2 69hp petrol engine, coupled with a five-speed manual or Dualogic transmission. The Fiat 500 Collezione went on sale in the UK on 8 March, 2018, priced from £13,865 OTR.

July 2019

Fiat 500 Dolcevita special edition celebrates 62 years of the Fiat 500

It sports an exclusive Bossa Nova White livery, enhanced by a red and white beauty line drawn around the entire silhouette. Reflecting the elegance of the era, the new 500 has a cursive "Dolcevita" chrome badge on the rear that perfectly complements the chrome bonnet line, the chrome door mirror covers and the body coloured side moulding with the "500" logo. The look is completed by elegant 16-inch white alloy wheels and fixed glass roof on the hatchback version.

The convertible version of the 500 Dolcevita, for the first time in the history of the model, is fitted with a white-and-blue striped top with embroidered red "500" logo inspired by the deck chairs and beach umbrellas of the Italian Riviera.

The same refined elegance is applied to the interior of the 500 Dolcevita with its wooden dashboard and contrasting beauty line. To ensure stability, flexibility and perfect resistance over time, the wood is applied onto an ultra-light carbon shell. The passenger compartment is the perfect match for the exteriors and is made even more exclusive by new ivory-coloured leather seats with embroidered 500 badge, red piping and a wicker-inspired central panel. The ivory colour scheme is mirrored in the floor mats.

This special edition embodies the values of Italian Glamour and the lifestyle involving fashion, design, art and the aesthetics of everyday life, taste and imagination. These are the ingredients of the identity and charm of Italy, of which the 500 is one of the most famous symbols in the world. The anniversary is even more exciting because this year it coincides with the 120thyear of the Fiat brand, a milestone that only a few car manufacturers in the world can boast.

Available in two configurations, hatchback and convertible, the 500 Dolcevita special edition includes the 69hp 1.2-litre engine with manual transmission. It can also be paired with the optional Dualogic gearbox.

Ordering will open at the end of July, with prices starting from £17,995 for the hatchback version, and £20,995 for the convertible.

July 2019

FIAT 500 Twin-Air engine discontinued due to problems meeting RDE1 (Real Driving Emissions) in force on all new cars from September 2019.

January 2020

Mild hybrid engine for Fiat 500 and Panda

The 500 and Panda will be available with a new petrol mild hybrid engine that combines the latest three-cylinder FireFly 1.0-litre engine family with a 12-volt BSG electric motor and a lithium battery that delivers 70PS (51kW).

Compared to the outgoing 1.2-litre 69PS petrol engine, the mild hybrid version improves fuel efficiency, reducing CO2 emissions on the road by up to 30 per cent without impeding performance. It also ensures a very high standard of driving comfort thanks to the BSG system, allowing for a quiet, vibration-free restart of the internal combustion engine in Stop&Start mode.

The arrival of the mild hybrid engine will marked by special edition models of the 500 and Panda. These Launch Edition models will be identified by the ‘Hybrid’ logo on the rear and the exclusive ‘H’ logo, formed by two dew drops, on the centre panel. The new and exclusive ‘Dew Green’ exterior that suits both cars is in harmony with the themes of nature and innovation.

The Launch Edition seats are the first in the automotive sector to be made of Seaqual® Yarn, the weaving of which produces a special material, certified by Seaqual, derived from recycled plastic, 10 per cent of which originates from the sea and 90 per cent from land.

The 500 Mild Hybrid and the Panda Mild Hybrid Launch Editions can be ordered from January at Fiat retailers across Europe. The first customer deliveries will arrive in the first quarter of 2020.

January 2020

Mild-hybrid prices announced

UK pricing and specifications for mild-hybrid versions of the Fiat 500 and Panda have been announced ahead of models arriving in showrooms in the coming months.

The 500 starts at £12,665 while the Panda costs from £13,855, each powered by a three-cylinder 1.0-litre petrol engine producing 70PS.

Fiat is offering special launch edition versions of the mild-hybrid 500 and Panda, identified by a new and exclusive Dew Green exterior. Inside, the seats are finished in Seaqual Yawn, made from recycled plastic.

The Fiat 500 mild hybrid will arrive in showrooms from February while the Panda will follow in March.

Trim level

OTR price
(£)

Pop

12,665

Lounge

14,395

Sport

14,565

Star

15,895

Rockstar

16,065

Launch Edition

16,795

January 2021

Fiat 500 range updated for 2021

The Pop trim provides an affordable entry point into the iconic 500 family range. The family’s colour palette is broadened by the new, exclusive Sicilian orange livery, complemented by new fabric blue seats, embellished with the FIAT monogram and a dedicated dashboard in new Techno blue. The 500 Pop costs from £13,270.

The Connect trim level offers a high level of technology as standard, with the 7-inch Uconnect infotainment system with DAB radio, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. On all three models, new seats are paired with a brand-new dashboard finish in matt silver.

The standard features on the 500 Connect also include cruise control, parking sensors, sports steering wheel with audio controls, 15-inch alloy wheels and fog lights. It is available in the exclusive new Perbene grey/Vesuvius black two-tone livery. 500 Connect is priced at £15,000.

The 500 Dolcevita builds on the Connect specification while harking back to the Nuova 500 when it was launched in 1957 with its glamorous style and fine aesthetic details. The interiors include body-colour dashboard, while outside chrome-plated details, a glass sunroof, 15-inch alloy wheels and the Dolcevita badge complete the exterior changes. A two-tone livery is optionally available alongside Bossa Nova White and Lunar Grey paint. The 500 Dolcevita is priced from £15,000.

The 500 Dolcevita Plus adds further to the Dolcevita specification with automatic climate control, 7-inch TFT screen, 3D satellite navigation and 16-inch alloy wheels. It is priced from £16,500.

The top of the range is the Sport trim is enhanced by the optional matt grey paint, and dedicated Sport badge. As standard, 500 Sport receives 16-inch alloy wheels, new electric heated seats, automatic air conditioning, new titanium colour dashboard, 7-inch TFT screen and privacy windows. It is priced from £16,500.

The distinct character of the trim levels can be further enhanced to customise the 500 family even more, while offering significant financial saving. These include:

- The magic eye pack: includes front parking sensors and rear camera, NAVI pack and ADAS pack with Blind Spot Detection and Adaptive Cruise Control. Available on Connect and Cross.

- The comfort pack: includes automatic air conditioning and adjustable seats, visibility pack with xenon headlights, electrochromatic rear view mirror and dusk and rain sensors. Available on Pop, Cross and Sport.

- The style pack: includes chrome-plated details and privacy glass with the full-LED pack Available on Connect.

500

CO2 g/km

Basic Price (£)

VAT (£)

Total Retail (£)

OTR Charges (£)

Total OTR (£)

HATCHBACK

POP Mild Hybrid 1.0

114-116

£10,261.67

£2,052.33

£12,314.00

£956.00

£13,270.00

CONNECT Mild Hybrid 1.0

114-120

£11,703.33

£2,340.67

£14,044.00

£956.00

£15,000.00

DOLCEVITA Mild Hybrid 1.0

115-117

£11,703.33

£2,340.67

£14,044.00

£956.00

£15,000.00

DOLCEVITA PLUS Mild Hybrid 1.0

115-117

£12,953.33

£2,590.67

£15,544.00

£956.00

£16,500.00

SPORT Mild Hybrid 1.0

116-120

£12,953.33

£2,590.67

£15,544.00

£956.00

£16,500.00

March 2021

Fiat 500 Hey Google special edition announced

The special series is equipped with the Hey Google voice assistant, so customers can connect to their car remotely, using nothing but their own voice to request and receive information on the car and to interact with it. They can do so via their smartphone or the Google Nest Hub, a digital display included with the welcome kit they receive when purchasing a new 500 family Hey Google car.

In the special Hey Google version, the 500 also comes with a two-tone white and gloss black exterior, 15-inch alloy wheels, new dark interiors with adjustable-height seats, soft-touch sports steering wheel with built-in controls, and new matt silver dashboard fascia with the 500 logo in white. The 500 Hey Google includes Cruise Control, Uconnect™ seven-inch DAB radio with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six speakers and Mopar® Connect, all as standard. Available in hatchback and cabrio versions, the 500 Hey Google is equipped with the 70hp Euro 6D-Final-compliant hybrid engine. It is also available in Gelato white, Pastel grey, Vesuvius black, Pompeii grey and Blue Italia.

February 2024

Fiat introduces limited edition 500 Collezione 1957

Fiat has launched a new version of the 500 supermini. Called the 500 Collezione 1957, after the year the original 500 was introduced, just 1957 will be made available in selected European markets, including the UK, and Japan.

The Fiat 500 Collezione 1957 features two-tone Bossa Nova White and Dew Green paint and 16-inch White Diamond alloy wheels. The interior features ivory coloured seats with Frau Leather inserts, a "ONE OF 1957" logo, and a dedicated numbered plate on the central tunnel.

What to watch out for

01-01-0001:

Knocking noise from transmission of diesel cured by fitting an engine damper, not fitted as standard. (No dual mass flywheel on 500 diesel.)

Reducing tyre pressures to standard setting makes a difference to steering feel and handling. 2psi over makes the steering over-light and the car quite skittish.

500 diesels not good for short runs from cold or town use. All owners of Fiat 500 Multijet diesels need to watch out for the dashboard 'oil exhausted' warning light (see pages 94/95 of the drivers manual). This warns that the oil has become degraded from excessive fuel oil and needs to be changed. If the car does a lot of short runs from cold, extra fuel pumped into the engine to create the heat to regenerate the diesel particulate filter may not be combusting and instead finds its way into the sump. If the sump level rises significantly as a result, the engine will start running on its sump oil and, if it cannot be stalled against the brakes, it will over-rev and blow up. As soon as 500 diesel owners notice the oil 'oil exhausted' warning they need to visit their dealer have an oil change (because the sump oil is contaminated with diesel) and have the DPF regenerated. Another reason for fuel system problems is failed injectors.

November 2009 one report of a failed engine mount on a 1.4 petrol. Recorded in case there are any more.

September 2010 report of failed stop/start system, screeching rear brakes and paint peeling from bumpers of a 1.2 Sport.

In Multijet diesels the engine oil cooler is a heat exchanger inside the coolant radiator and the joints can fracture admitting coolant to the engine oil, wrecking the engine.

04-01-2011:

Rumour of problems with dual mass flywheels of 1.3 Multijet diesels.

13-07-2011:

One report of repeated failure of stop/start system of a TwinAir. (Logged in case there are more.)

13-05-2012:

One report of broken cables in wiring loom between body of car and hatchback.

16-07-2012:

Report of failed front windscreen wipers on 53k mile 2008 500 1.2 Lounge. Informed that the problem was “low speed wiper motor relay intermittently not switching to deliver power supply to wiper motor, intermittent resistance build up in relay coil.” Quoted £450 for "new body computer, plus labour and VAT.

28-07-2012:

One complaint of airbag warning light flickering on and off in a 28,000 mile 2008 1.2 Lounge.

18-09-2012:

Report of a waterpump failure at 4 years old with 19,000 miles.

14-10-2012:

Alternator of 18,300 mile 2011 TwinAir with Stop/Start overcharging the battery at a rate of 15.3 volts and thought to have damaged the battery. Warranty claim for both alternator and battery made to Fiat.

06-12-2012:

Poor starting of 4 year old 1.2 Lounge turned out to be due to a failed fuel pump. Cost £485 inc to replace.

30-12-2012:

Repeated failure of clutch hydraulics of 500C TwinAir from new to 4500 miles.

08-02-2013:

Failed wiring loom on a 2009 and quoted £650 to replace, eventually reduced to £350 with contributions from both Fiat and the dealer.

10-02-2013:

On a 31k mile (but little used in the last year) 2009 500, rubber tank breather hoses failed and car failed MoT on n/s front suspension arm ball joint dust cover costing £287.30 to fix.

01-04-2013:

Another report of fuel tank beather failing for a second time on a 2009 500.

01-05-2013:

Another 1.3 Multijet engine failure as the result of a blocked DPF. This on a 2009/59 500.

29-05-2013:

Yet another report of sump oil contamination of a Fiat 500 1.3 Multijet.

10-07-2013:

37k mile 2008 1.2 Lounge required a new aurbag ECU in 2012 costing £400, new rear silencer box, now suffering slight leak from rear shocks and new timing belt recommended at £220.

13-08-2013:

Report of manual gearbox failure on 66k mile 2009 500C. Quoted £3500 to replace.

12-09-2013:

PAS failure on 20 month old 500C.

22-09-2013:

Yet another failed 1.3 Multijet reported. This was a 2008/58 that had done less than 14,000 miles. Active DPF regeneration had put too much diesel into the engine, effectively raising the sump level and causing the engine to run uncontrollably on its sump oil to the point of self-destruction. Vital for all drivers of 500 Multijet diesels to chack their sump levels regularly and if the oil seems to rise get their cars to a Fiat dealership for an oil change and forced regeneration of the DPF.

18-02-2014:

Clutch mechanism of 2009/59 500 and electric hatchback lock failed at very low 2500 miles.

22-03-2014:

Electric hatch lock failed twice on a 17,500 mile 2009/50 500: first time replaced under warranty; 2nd time dealer wanted £193.

10-04-2014:

Heater matrix failure on 500 TwinAir led to overheating of engine.

20-04-2014:

A 2010 Abarth 500 suffered the loss of various key functions including speedometer, indicators and brake lights (which of course makes the car illegal to drive). An independent garage traced the fault to the wiring cable under the tailgate. The wires had become twisted and broken as a result of the movement of the tailgate. Fault as origninally reported on 13-5-2012.

30-06-2014:

Second report of failed rear wiper and brake lights on a 4-year old 500 due to can bus wiring problems as a result of the cable loom getting trapped in the hatchback opening £400 to fix.

07-07-2014:

Another case of a 500 MultiJet diesel engine revving uncontrollably because the ECU had introduced too much fuel to the engine to actively regenerate the DPF, this fuel had sunk into the sump, and the sump level had risen sufficiently for the compression ignition engine to run on it. This car was a 25,000 mile 2008 500 MultiJet. Vital for all drivers of 500 MultiJet diesels to chack their sump levels regularly and if the oil seems to rise get their cars to a Fiat dealership for an oil change and forced regeneration of the DPF.

17-08-2014:

Problem with EU6 compliant versions of 1.2 Fire engine in Fiat 500. Hesitation when pulling away in 1st and 2nd gears due to a ECU remapping to meet EU6. "Feels very unsafe, when trying to pull out into traffic." Apparently, some Fiat dealers have an ECU software fix for this. At a guess, it is probably to resture the ECU to the EU5 settings.

03-09-2014:

Fiat 500 Dualogic would not select any gears and required new Actuator at a cost of £1800. Cost of repairs so far: £3,000.

02-10-2014:

Software fix available from some Fiat dealers that restores the performance of EU6 1.2 Panda and 500 engines.

14-10-2014:

Another case of hatchback lock failing because cables inside wiring loom had chafed in the hatchback hinge. All 500 owners should check for this.

16-11-2014:

2008 500 1.3 Multijet "belching out white smoke, over-revving and having to be stalled on the brake." Usual problem of Active stage of DPF recycling supplying too much diesel to the engine and diesel then sinks into the sump, raising its level until the engine stats to run on it uncontrollably. The same thing has happened to the same car 3 years previously and it needed a new engine. Fiat garage denies any knowledge of the problem.

27-11-2014:

Fiat conceded to BBC Watchdog that there was a software problem with 500 1.2 EU6 engines, and that it would issue an update in January 2015. However, if the cars were fitted with ESC there was no problem.

14-01-2015:

Another case of a Fiat 500 failing to climb hills, this time a 2014 EU6 500C. Reader has made four visits to the dealer, but the solution promised by Fiat on BBC Watchdog by January 2015 had not come through.

20-01-2015:

2013 Fiat 500 required new front discs and pads at 24k miles.

09-03-2015:

New timing belt and waterpump recommended for 1,242cc engine every 5 years of 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. Since the job only costs £324 it should not be neglected.

27-03-2015:

Reader reports that an official fix for the 1,242cc EU6 engine problem in 500 and Panda has finally reached dealers.

28-03-2015:

Report of 500S TwinAir 105PS suffering a hesitation if taken above 4000rpm before upchanging. Does it in every gear, and in both Sport and non Sport mode. May be a result of the emissions reprogramming for EU6.

02-05-2015:

Reader reported that software fix for EU6 1,242 Fiat 500 engine was working. Previously, on pulling away gently at low revs it was fine, but on hill starts / trying to pull out quickly across busy junctions / even just moving onto the drive across the kerb, the engine seemed to spin from low to excessively high revs - with a flat spot in-between (and consequent delay, when it was least wanted) - generally giving the impression of a learner driver at the wheel.

14-05-2015:

Report of failure of Dualogic automated manual transmission of 2010 500 with 22k miles. Estimated repair: £1,300.

02-06-2015:

EPAS failure on 34k mile 2008 Fiat 500 1.4 Sport. Local mechanic charged £1600 to replace it.

26-07-2015:

Complaint that braking system of 2008/58 Fiat 500 failed. Car had MoT 3 months previously. Apparently, water can get into a protective sleeve at the point where the flexible front brake pipes are connected to the callipers, leading to rusting and eventual failure.

18-08-2015:

Problems with 35k mile 2011 (4 year old) Fiat 500 TwinAir include £792 for a rear hatchback wiring harness; £1,192 for a multi-air module (misfiring engine); £248 for a boot handle (boot won't open).

15-11-2015:

Report of digital clock running slow on new 2016 facelift Fiat 500.

22-12-2015:

Series of disasters reported on 2011 Fiat 500 TwinAir Lounge purchased used from dealer at 10,800 miles in November 2014. First fault, failed battery: replaced under warranty. 6,000 miles later (17,000 miles) front discs and brake master cylinder replaced at cost of £540, together with £400 4th service. Then airbag light came on. Diagnosis confirmed airbags okay and fault in ECU. Replacement ECU will cost £530 and Fiat refused to contribute.

29-12-2015:

Screech reported from clutch of very mileage (9000) 2008 Fiat 500 1.4 after an hour's running. Bite point is lost, making gear changing difficult. Probably failing release bearing.

11-01-2016:

Report of 2014 500 in for service at 21,000 miles needing new front dampers and a realignment for which £480 was quoted.

28-06-2016:

The 500 TwinAir engine is extremely oil sensitive. The wrong oil destroys the MultiAir system, replacement of which costs £1200.

11-08-2016:

Report of repeated coil pack problem on Fiat 500 TwinAir. Apparently early TwinAir engines suffered coilpack failures leading to misfiring. They were subject to TSB recall and retrofitting of new improved coilpacks. Reader's 2011 500 TwinAir Sport was recalled for new coilpacks in 2012. In August 2016 and after only 22k, miles the engine started misfiring under hard acceleration and the engine management light appears. Diagnostic testing reveals that coils are again at fault and new ones have been ordered and will be fitted, but tbis time at the reader's expense.

08-11-2016:

Clutch of 2015 500 TwinAir broke up while ascending a steep hill.

16-11-2016:

Report of transmission of 2014 500 Pop failing at 30,000 miles.

01-12-2016:

Another report of a 500 1.3 Multijet running uncontrollably on its sump oil due to too much diesel fuel in the oil through railed DPF regeneration.

06-02-2017:

Report of failure of instrument cluster on a 2014 500 at 8000 miles, 4 months out of warranty. Dealer quoted £560 to replace it.

13-02-2017:

Report of oil cooler of 500 TwinAir 105 springing a leak. Engine had lost almost all its oil, fortunately at the owner's house, not out on the road. Fixed under warranty.

17-02-2017:

Report of 2011/61 500 Multijet diesel suffering sporadic engine noise and vibration and black smoke coming out of the exhaust. Owner was told there is nothing wrong with it. Not true. This is the engine attempting and possibly failing to actively regenerate the Diesel Particulate Filter and the engine sump may be filling up with diesel fuel as a result.

17-03-2017:

Report of 2012 500 TwinAir losing a full tank of coolant every 8 weeks. Checked and pressure tested it in multiple garages (including Fiat dealerships). None one can find any leaks big enough to justify the loss.

02-04-2017:

Report of strange fault with stop/start system of 2013 Fiat 500 1.2 Lounge. Irritated by it, the owner switched it off in 2016, but since then the engine warning light has come on and stayed on citing the stop-start system failure as the reason. The on/off switch no longer functions.

07-04-2017:

Transmission main shaft bearing failure reported on 2012 Fiat 500 at 27,000 miles. Dealer estimated £700 to fix it.

15-05-2017:

Report of failed numberplate lights on 2012 Fiat 500 Pop (wires broken in cable from body to hatchback). Also a rattle from the a/c when a/c is switched on.

21-05-2017:

Oil contamination warning light came on prematurely in 2015/65 500 1.3 Multijet and car taken in for a between services oil change. 1.3 Multijet absolutely requires a change of oil and filter at least every 12 months or every 10k miles, whichever comes first.

23-06-2017:

Electrical problems reported with 3000 miles 2016/66 500 1.2 Sport. All warning lights come on and now engine management is also on.

23-06-2017:

If the soft touch tailgate release button of a 500 doesn't work, the 'E' clip on the micro-switch spring might have broken. You can get a new one on eBay for very little and fix it yourself. Means taking off the handle, of course.

24-07-2017:

DMF of 500 TwinAir 105 6-speed manual failed at 25k miles at 25,000 miles after towing a motorcycle on a trailer. Fiat paid for a new DMF and clutch because car had been towing within its designated limits.

06-08-2017:

Problem reported with 500 1.4 Dualogic: Seems to lose 1st 2nd then have to pull over turn off then restart it seems to get home. Other times can be driving at 40mph go to overtake it's fine until pull out then lose power. Try and give more power thinking it'll clear but gutless again and have to pull over.

22-08-2017:

Another report of failure of the DMF, again on a 500 TwinAir 105 6-speed manual, this a May 2014 at 33k miles.

06-11-2017:

Report of 500 Dualogic jumping into 'N' (neutral) while driving.

14-11-2017:

Dualogic transmission of 2013 500 failed and owner was quoted £4500 to replace it.

08-02-2018:

Report of failing Dualogic transmission in 2012 500 Dualogic at 55,000 miles. Possibly caused by a failing battery.

07-03-2018:

Complaint of rotted rear axle on a 2009 500 with 40,000 miles. No information about the car's past.

18-03-2018:

Report of timing chain failing on a 64 reg Panda Cross TwinAir at 22,804 miles. Some doubt about service regime. The reason turned out to be that it had run out of oil. Vital to regularly check the oil level of a TwinAir engine. Important to idle the engine to ensure oil flow through the turbo before switching off after running on the motorway, after a long ascent, or after running at high revs.

07-04-2018:

Report of 2013/63 reg Fiat 500 Dualogic not going into 3rd gear.

10-04-2018:

Phantom fault reported in 2010 Fiat 500 2.2 Pop of EOBD warning light appeared and the fault code (PO555) indicated a problem with the Brake Booster Pressure Sensor circuit. The car runs normally and after clearing the error code and checking the sensor electrical connector the warning light did not appear again until the following day.

26-04-2018:

Report of failed stop start on (unspecified age and engine) Fiat 500. Dealer wanted £385 to fix it.

02-05-2018:

Report of loud intermittent squeaking from front brakes of November 2016 Fiat 500 which the dealer has been unable to fix, despite charging the owner £45 to clean and regrease the calliper pins.

27-06-2018:

Report of failure of clutch pressure plate on a 2014 Fiat 500 at 16,000 miles. Because it was the sprung pressure plate and not the drive plate it could not have been caused by driver error.

30-06-2018:

Report of failure of clutch of 2016 Fiat 500 1248cc Multijet Dualogic at 17,000 miles. Dealer told owner it was not a warranty claim as caused by her driving and demanded £1700 to fix it. (Update 29-7-2018: Perrys of Aylesbury finally agreed to cover 50% of the £1700 charge for replacing the automatic clutch after continuing to refuse to cover it under the 3 year warranty blaming owner's driving style and improper use of the brake.)

08-07-2018:

MUST use correct Fiat specified Selenia oil in the TwinAir or will lead to problems.

14-07-2018:

Report of clutch bearing failing and "jamming into pressure plate" of 2014 Fiat 500. Fixed by independent so Fiat would not contribute.

20-07-2018:

Report of 'Denim' effect on roof and mirror pods of 2015 Fiat 500 'Denim' coming away. Supplying dealer simply wants to repaint them.

26-07-2018:

Report of failure of Dualogic transmission of 2014 500 that had not been regularly maintained. Gearbox casing broke and it lost its oil. Originally quoted £2613.70 for replacement. Cost rose to £3999 fitted.

30-07-2018:

Report of manual transmission failure in 2003 Fiat 500 at 33,000 miles. Quoted £800-£1000 to replace.

07-08-2018:

Report that 2016 500 1.2 needed new clutch at 20,000 miles.

15-08-2018:

Report of 2010 500 1.25 Multijet Diesel, bought used on 15-8-2017 suffering a DPF regeneration malfunction that caused the sump to fill up with post-injected diesel that caused the fuel injectors and glow plugs to burn out and malfunction. The glow plugs were loose. The exhaust also is full of oil and needs replacing along with the diesel particle filter.

17-08-2018:

Report of alternator repeatedly failing on recently purchased used 500C 1.4 100HP.

28-09-2018:

Complaint of 500 Pop Dualigic constantly 'poppong' out of gear.

03-10-2018:

Report of mileage indicator of (unknown age) 500 flashing and Blue Me not working. Garage says new Blue Me unit £500.

16-10-2018:

Report of tailgate microswitch falure on 500. Complete handle including switch available on eBay for £69.

30-10-2018:

Report of ignition coil failures on 500 TwinAir

31-10-2018:

Report of Dualogic automated manual in recently purchased 500 suddenly jumping from 4th gear to neutral.

13-12-2018:

Failed TXV valve reported in a/c of 2012 Fiat 500 TwinAir. A thermal expansion valve (often abbreviated as TEV , TXV , or TX valve ) is a component in refrigeration and air-conditioning systems that controls the amount of refrigerant released into the evaporator thereby controlling superheat. Very expensive to replace because involved dismantling of dashboard.

14-12-2018:

Report of failure of transmission of 2013 500 at 30,000 miles.

15-12-2018:

Report of 500 Dualogic not going into any gear, just staying in neutral. Probably a failed actuator.

03-03-2019:

Report of 'CANCHECK' warning coming up on radio screen of 2008 500 at 35,000 miles. Car failed to start after a couple of turns of the ignition key. Next day, the car did start, the CANCHECK warning did not appear again, and owner took it for a full diagnostic check to the local Fiat dealer. They could not identify where the problem was and he was advised to “allow the problem to develop”. (The Canbus system electromically controls the allocation of power to the various electrical components in the car, eliminating the need for excess wiring.)

08-04-2019:

Report of 2017 Fiat 500 needing a new clutch and clutch slave cylinder at 10,000 miles.

29-05-2019:

Report of failure of Dualogic transmission of 2016 FIAT 500 automatic bought used 10 days previously. Stopped car at lights and engine went dead, car wouldn’t move. Got it going but engine was revving loudly and car hardly moving. Supplying dealer took responsibility and sent the car to a FIAT dealer.

06-07-2019:

FIAT 500 Twin-Air engine discontinued due to problems meeting RDE1 (Real Driving Emissions) in force on all new cars from September 2019.

20-08-2019:

Report of actuator trouble with recently purchased FIAT 500C 1.2 at 20,000 miles. Keeps flashing check transmission warning light and message and fails to change up the gears repeatedly without resorting to manual.

10-09-2019:

Report of Dualogic automated manual transmission of 2015 FIAT 500 Pop failing at 17,000 miles.

11-09-2019:

Report of 31,000 mile 2014 FIAT 500 TwinAir Dualogic sporadically slipping into neutral without warning. The car beeps a warning sound, then goes into neutral and the display shows "No Transmission". The engine still runs but will not go into gear. This has now happened three times. AA man thought it might be a low battery. If car is left for 10 minutes and re-started, problem disappears. FIAT dealer also suggested a new battery. Unfortunately a new battery did not solve the problem.

26-09-2019:

Report of 2011 FIAT 500 TwinAir needing new cylinder head gasket at 82,000 miles. Estimate £480 just to remove the head and check for further damage.

11-06-2020:

F aulty Twinair modules on 2014 Fiat 500. Owner quoted £611 replacement cost. Fault with cylinder two inlet valve sticking open.

16-06-2020:

Report of 2015 Fiat 500 Lounge 1.2 Dualogic stopping and failing to re-start. Engine eventually starts after a few hours.

What does the Fiat 500 cost?