Fiat adds two new members to the 500 family with the 500X and 500X Cross. The 500X wants to rival cars like the Nissan Juke and Renault Captur with a design clearly based on the small, and original, Fiat 500, and a modified platform of the Punto. So is it good?
We will have to wait a few more months to find out, but since it has the same platform of the Renegade, and it has good ride, our hopes are high. Regarding the size, is approximately 4250mm long (the 500X Cross is longer by 20mm), 1800mm wide and 1600mm high (with roof bars or four-wheel drive the figures are 1610 and 1620mm, respectively). The cargo area has room for 350 liters.
So what are the differences between the 500X and 500X Cross? To put it short, The Cross version has bigger bumpers. In both you will be able to choose between several gasoline and diesel engines, front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, and four different transmissions (5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 9-speed automatic and a twin-clutch 6-speed automatic).
The least powerful model will be equipped with a 1.3-liter MultiJet II diesel engine that generates 95PS (94bhp or 70kW), a 5-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive, while the most powerful version comes with a 2.4-liter gasoline "tigershark" unit that produces 184PS (182bhp or 135kW), a 9-speed automatic transmission and 4-wheel drive.
New in this segment is a rear axle disconnection system that reduces drag when the four-wheel drive system is not in use. The new 500X offers the "Drive Mood Selector", which is a system that acts on the brakes, steering, engine, gearbox and transmission, allowing the driver to choose between three modes; Auto, Sport, All Weather. The last mode will be replaced by the Traction mode on the four-wheel drive Cross versions or by the Traction Plus if you happen to choose The 500X Cross with front-wheel drive.
If you happen to live in Italy, Germany, France, Spain or Switzerland you will be able to buy one of the 2000 "Opening Edition" versions that will be sold. It will be available in three versions; two 2-wheel drive options with the 1.4-liter Turbo MultiAir II (140PS, 138bhp, 103kW) or the 1.6-liter MultiJet II (120PS, 118bhp, 88kW) engines, and one four-wheel drive with the 2.0-liter MultiJet II (140PS, 138bhp, 103kW) engine.
Inside, you can find everything you can also find in other models, with Fiat giving special attention to the "sophisticated Uconnect systems with 5" or 6.5" touchscreens".
Only the prices of the Opening Edition were revealed and they vary between 21900€ (27950$ or 17350£) for the 1.4-liter version and goes up to 30650€ (39100$ or 24300£) for the crossover with the 2.0-liter unit. Conversions made at the current time. Sales will start early next year.
The Fiat 500X débuts at the Paris Motor Show, the new compact crossover in the 500 family that marks the evolution of the brand and technology through the development in its DNA.
A beauty with character, the new car explores a brand-new dimension of being 500, where a mature, elegant, all-Italian style "clothes" - like haute couture - the substance of a car that is comfortable, high-performance and always in touch with the world: that's the X side of beauty, and that's the soul of the Fiat 500X.
Heir to the Fiat 500 of 1957 - the stylistic reference of the rounded lights and the classic logo with chrome-plated bonnet trim is clear - the new Fiat crossover extends the 500 family, comprising the 500, 500C, 500L, 500L Trekking and 500L Living models: cars which are very different in terms of vocation and character, but which have the same roots in common: the iconic Fiat 500.
Built in the updated SATA plant in Melfi (Potenza) and sold on more than 100 countries worldwide including the United States, the new Fiat 500X will be available in two different versions with two different souls - one more "metropolitan" and the other ideal for leisure - equipped with efficient diesel and petrol engines, three types of transmission - manual, 9-speed automatic or twin-clutch 6-speed automatic - and with front-wheel drive, four-wheel drive or front-wheel drive with Traction Plus configurations.
500X "goes beyond" current customer targets
The Fiat 500X is a crossover not only in its very nature, but also because it is of interest to many different types of customer in terms of different sexes, ages, needs and tastes. In this sense, the "X" symbol represents the exponential element, a crossroads for segments that vary greatly among themselves, each inhabited by the young and the mature, lovers of beauty and connoisseurs of character. They are dynamic, with an active social life and they cultivate different passions and interests. What they have in common, however, is the desire to enjoy a satisfying driving experience and express their own personality through a distinctive style. Today they all find a clear, exhaustive answer: Fiat 500X.
Two versions are available: the first, characterised by distinctive, elegant style details, is sure to win over young, dynamic and metropolitan customers. The second version, instead, has a decidedly more off-road look and equipment which make it the ideal solution for lovers of leisure and outdoor activities who don't want to give up the unique style of the Fiat 500.
Style and dimensions
Designed by the Centro Stile Fiat, the new 500X represents a new dimension of the unmistakable 500 where its iconic style and the modern concept of the crossover collide, with the addition of the respectable off-road capability ensured by the version most suitable for an outdoor lifestyle.
With a big personality and distinctively Italian design, the new car is characterised by flexibility, rationality and quality firmly embedded in its compact dimensions, in the ample interior space and the choice of premium materials and fabrics, as well as the most sophisticated technology in the service of safety, comfort and well-being on board.
The solid, robust appearance of the car finds its perfect stylistic counterpart in the harmonious line, which emerges in dimensions ideal for customers looking for comfort space and the equipment typical of compact saloons. At the same time, the 500X also gives a nod to those who need to tackle urban traffic every day, thanks to its modest dimensions: it's 4.25 metres long (2 cm more for the version suited for leisure), 1.8 metres wide and 1.60 metres in height (with roof bars or 4-wheel drive the figures are 161 and 162 cm respectively).
Compact outside, welcoming inside: a large, protective environment with extensive use of fine materials, high-quality finishes and practical storage compartments. A comfortable passenger compartment which is unmistakably Made in Italy and offered in no fewer than seven interior configurations, through matching of various types of fabric, leather and colours. This is all made even more functional through the many seat adjustment possibilities and the spacious luggage compartment (350 litres).
Finally, the customer can chose from 12 different liveries that emphasises the sensual form of the Fiat 500X, further enhanced by the eight different designs for the 16-, 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels
Engine versions
The new Fiat 500X offers, according to the EMEA market, various combinations of engine, gearbox and transmission to meet all usage requirements, always with respect for nature and maximum efficiency in terms of performance, consumption and emissions.
At launch, the engine line-up will feature the 140 HP 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II (with front-wheel drive and 6-speed manual gearbox), the 120 HP 1.6 MultiJet II (also with front-wheel drive and 6-speed manual gearbox) and the 140 HP 2.0 MultiJet II (with 9-speed automatic transmission and 4-wheel drive).
The range will later be completed by the 110 HP 1.6 "E-torQ" (5-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive), the 170 HP 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II (9-speed automatic transmission and 4-wheel drive) and the powerful 184 HP Tigershark 2.4 (9-speed automatic transmission and 4-wheel drive).
The 140 HP 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II will also be available with front-wheel drive and dual clutch 6-speed automatic transmission. More in detail, the innovative dual clutch sequential automatic transmission secures both more driving comfort and a sportier feel than a traditional automatic transmission, and greater efficiency and lower fuel consumption. Conceptually, the device consists of two transmissions in parallel which allow extraordinarily rapid shifts by releasing one clutch and engaging the other one simultaneously.
Also available will be the following turbodiesels: the 95 HP 1.3 MultiJet II (with 5-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive) and the 140 HP 2.0 MultiJet II (with 6-speed manual and 4-wheel drive).
Nine-speed automatic transmission
The 500X crossover is the first Fiat car to offer a nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, in combination with the 170 HP 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II petrol engine and the 140 HP 2.0 MultiJet II turbodiesel, offers many advantages, including great capacity for pick-up and smooth delivery of power. With electronic control, the new nine-speed automatic transmission features "shift-on-the-fly" mapping, with the possibility of switching to manual-sequential mode.
4WD and rear axle disconnection system
The new Fiat 500X is available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations. A particular feature of the new Fiat crossover's four-wheel drive is the adoption of a rear axle disconnection system that permits a reduction in energy wasted through drag when four-wheel drive operation is not required, thus ensuring greater efficiency in terms of consumption. It is the only car in the segment to offer it, together with the Jeep Renegade; the rear-axle disconnect seamlessly switches between two- and four-wheel drive for full-time torque management without requiring input from the driver.
"Drive Mood Selector" and Traction Plus system
The new 500X offers the " Drive Mood Selector ", which acts on engine, brakes, steering and gearbox/transmission, permitting three different car behaviours, based on the driving style most appropriate to the situation or road surface conditions: Auto (for the best in terms of comfort, consumption and CO2 emissions), Sport (for a drive that favours performance) and All weather (maximum safety even in low grip conditions).
On the versions more suitable for leisure, All weather mode is replaced by the "Traction" function, which, in the case of the four-wheel drive version, speeds up the transmission of torque to the rear axle. On the versions with front-wheel drive, on the other hand, it activates the "Traction Plus" control system, which on one hand improves grip on rough, slippery terrain, and on the other costs less and has lower emissions than a conventional four-wheel drive, proving more efficient in light, everyday off-road use.
Handling and safety
Equipped with MacPherson suspension at the rear, the Fiat 500X ensures the right balance of handling and comfort. What's more, to guarantee protection of occupant, the new Fiat crossover combines a body designed according to the most modern criteria with active and passive safety content that ensures excellent performance. As standard on the entire range is some important content, such as six airbags (front, window bags and side bags), front headlights with daytime running light function and fog lights with cornering function, in addition to the sophisticated ESC (Electronic Stability Control). In addition, depending on the version and market, the advanced Lane Assist (lane departure warning system) and Blind Spot Assist (lane change assistance system to get around blind spots) devices are available as standard or on request. On request, it is also possible to equip your 500X with the new ParkView rear camera for reversing and the "Brake Control" (assisted braking system).
Infotainment
In terms of comfort and infotainment equipment, the Fiat 500X stands out in its category thanks to the sophisticated UconnectTM systems with 5" or 6.5" touchscreens. Both versions come complete with Bluetooth interface, Aux-in connector, USB port, SD port and voice commands. Additionally, the Uconnect 5'' Radio Nav device offers TomTom 2.5D navigation while the Uconnect 6.5" Radio Nav features satellite navigation with 3D maps, progressive route guidance and 'One Shot Voice Destination Entry' to enter addresses with voice commands.
Using the colour touchscreen, the system lets you access all the main functions: from the analogue and digital radio (DAB) through to all the main multimedia sources (media player, iPod, iPhone, smartphone) which can be connected via USB port or Aux-in socket or Bluetooth audio streaming. This can all be managed directly using the steering wheel controls in order not to look away from the road or take your hands off the wheel.
The new Uconnect TM Live system also allows customers - through integration with their smartphones - to use many apps on the on-board system so that they can always be in contact with their friends on Facebook and Twitter; listen to millions of music tracks on Deezer andover 100,000 real radio stations with TuneIn ; get real-time news updates from Reuters and information on the traffic, speed cameras, autovelox and weather thanks to TomTom Live services.
Finally, the Fiat 500X offers "eco:DriveTM", which permits a saving of up to 16% in fuel costs and reduced CO2emissions, in addition to the "my:CarTM" service, which helps with maintenance and dealing with emergencies with an interactive user manual.
In terms of audio, the exclusive Beats Hi-Fi system is available on request. Developed in collaboration with Beats by Dr. Dre and launched on the 500L model, it revolutionises the way music can be experienced inside the new Fiat 500X.
It charmed you in Paris with an original reveal at the recent Motor Show, and thousands of you all over the world have given it positive feedback. You're clamouring to see it, but you'll have to wait just a few months more: the new Fiat 500X is set to arrive in dealerships from early 2015, and like any cult item, initially it may be tricky to meet demand.
With this in mind, Fiat has created an exclusive, top of the range, limited edition of the model - the Fiat 500X "Opening Edition" - to guarantee the first 2000 lucky customers the chance to drive the exciting new crossover from the 500 family. Two exteriors - like the two souls of the new 500X: one more "urban" in Art Grey, the other in tri-coat red, perfect for recreational use.
To find out more about the exclusive Fiat 500X "Opening Edition", users can visit www.500X.fiat500.com to discover what makes the new Fiat crossover truly one of a kind, using a navigation system which allows you to explore the car from any angle. On the website you can also reserve your limited edition Fiat 500X through your trusted dealership and be one of the first 2000 to drive one.
The exclusive "Opening Edition"
On the markets on which it is sold - Italy, Germany, France, Spain or Switzerland - the Fiat 500X "Opening Edition" will be available in three versions: two 4x2 options with the 140 HP 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II or the 120 HP 1.6 MultiJet II engines, and one 4x4 with the 140 HP 2.0 MultiJet II engine.
The 500X "Opening Edition" with 4x2 drive system - equipped with the 120 HP 1.6 MultiJet II engine or the 140 HP 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II - features a pastel Art Grey livery, and an exclusive selection of equipment such as automatic climate control, 18" alloy rims, the "Safety Pack" which includes a comprehensive range of active safety systems (anti-collision, a lane change assistance system to get around blind spots, a lane departure warning system, a rear camera for reversing), as well as the "Comfort Pack" to ensure optimum on-board comfort (armrest and lumbar adjustment) plus the Keyless Entry & Keyless Go system, tinted rear windows and the exclusive Opening Edition badge.
The second version comes in exclusive tri-coat Amore Red, and boasts 4x4 drive system with a 140 HP 2.0 MultiJet II engine plus 9-speed automatic transmission. The top of the range equipment on this model is sure to attract attention. As well as a host of features as standard, the purchase price also includes a wealth of exclusive content, from the special tri-coat Amore Red paint, to the navigation pack (Uconnect Nav 6.5" with additional USB port on the front armrest compartment), plus two-tone red and black leather interiors, visibility pack with rain and dusk sensors, electrically folding door mirrors, an electrochromic rear view mirror, steering wheel gear controls and the exclusive Opening Edition badge.
In Italy, the price list starts at Euro 21,900 for the 140 HP 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II version with 4x2 drive and goes up to Euro 30,650 for the top-of-the-range 500X "Opening Edition" with 4x4 drive and 140 HP 2.0 MultiJet II engine teamed with the 9-speed automatic transmission, with exclusive content worth up to Euro 3,500 included in the purchase price.
For list prices for other markets (Germany, France, Spain and Switzerland) please check the local websites and access the dedicated international press area directly from the home page.
With this special "Opening Edition", Fiat is looking to give something back to the many fans who, following the exciting international debut at the Paris Motor Show, have expressed enormous interest in the new Fiat 500X, the 500 family's compact crossover which marks the evolution of the brand and is a further expression of the technological maturity that runs in its blood.
A beauty with character, the new car explores a brand-new dimension of being 500, where a mature, elegant, all-Italian style "clothes" - like haute couture - the substance of a car that is comfortable, high-performance and always in touch with the world: this is the X side of beauty, and this is the soul of the Fiat 500X, which 2000 lucky customers will be able to experience before anyone else in the world.
