Fiat 500 1.3 Multijet 95 CV, test drive (Exterior design, interior and final verdict)

We continue with the test of the most urban model from the Italian brand, the Fiat 500, which we tested with the 1.3 Multijet engine that delivers a power output of 95 CV. As we saw in the first part, this powertrain offers very interesting performance and makes it easy to drive around the city.

We also saw how it behaves on the road and its consumption levels in town and on the motorway. In this second part, we will analyse both the exterior and interior design. We will also talk about the quality of the finishes and the interior living space of the cabin. Finally, we will tell you about the prices available and give you our final verdict on the Fiat 500.

Exterior design

One of the key aspects of the Fiat 500 is its exterior styling, which gives this city car an extra touch of elegance. Looking at the front, it is dominated by round headlights that remind us of the original 500, and a chrome line stands out, wrapping around the brand logo and matching other elements such as the mirrors, the door handle and the rear bumper.

The Fiat 500 measures about 3.546 metres in length, which, together with a width of 1.627 metres and a height of 1.488 metres, gives it that “egg-shaped” form so characteristic of the model. From the side, what catches our attention most are the optional 16-inch alloy wheels, which give it a slightly sportier look. At the rear, there is a small spoiler and a chrome exhaust tip.

In addition, our particular unit had a black body colour combined with two white vinyl stripes running from the bonnet to the roof, which made it even more eye-catching. Therefore, the styling of the Fiat 500 still retains some features of the previous model but without forgetting to update itself.

Interior design, living space and finishes

Moving to the cabin, the first thing we notice is the colour combination chosen for the seats, which also mix leather with fabric. The front seats are quite comfortable for city journeys. Moreover, as we saw in the first part, the driving position is somewhat elevated compared with other urban models, which lets you see the road better.

Once seated, we notice that the instrument panel has a single dial that shows the speedometer, the rev counter and the on-board computer. Another detail we notice before starting the car is that the steering wheel adjusts for height but not for reach, which somewhat limits adaptation for each driver.

Looking at the dashboard as a whole, the Fiat 500 has fairly good materials and finishes, with soft-touch materials on the upper part and plastics below. Moving to the centre console, it is not overloaded with buttons, as it only has those for the sound system, the climate controls and two additional buttons: City mode and the fog light switch.

However, one of the things we miss in the interior of the Fiat 500 is the glove box, as we only have the door pockets, the passenger one and a rather small one located at the bottom of the centre console. So there is a lack of space for keeping things like a phone or house keys.

Moving on from the front, we come to the rear seats, where there is only room for two passengers. These seats allow two adults to travel comfortably thanks to their headroom, but legroom is a bit tight. However, we must not forget that this is an urban car, so the rear seats would be sufficient. Access to them is quite easy since the front seat slides forward easily and creates enough space for an adult to get in. Once again, we find the difficulty of finding a glove box to store our things.

Finally, there is the boot, which has a capacity of 180 litres , and this is where we find some difference from other urban cars, offering a much larger load space.

Equipment and prices

The Fiat 500 is available mainly with three trim levels: Pop, Lounge and Sport. The first one comes as standard with, among other things, an on-board computer, electric mirrors and electric windows. The Lounge adds to the Pop a manual air conditioner, 15-inch wheels, the Blue&Me system or Hill Holder,

Finally, the Sport trim is available with sports seats or a chrome exhaust tip. As for prices, the Fiat 500 1.2 8v 69 CV Pop is available from €11,650, which with the current offer comes down to around €10,750.62. Meanwhile, to get the 1.2 8v 69 CV Lounge you will have to pay at least €13,650.

Final verdict

Therefore, the Fiat 500 with the 95 CV 1.3 Multijet engine proves to be a good option for those looking for urban mobility with driving that offers greater enjoyment, since, as we have seen, the performance of this powertrain is quite respectable.

In terms of the interior, the 500 has generally good finishes with fairly complete equipment. In addition, its exterior styling gives this city car an air of exclusivity thanks to a design that combines retro with modern.

Photos | David Taboada