Introducing the new Fiat 500L 2017: in its Cross, Urban and Wagon variants

Fiat has updated one of the largest and most spacious 500s there has ever been, because the 500 saga has a lot to offer, being a true icon. Under the 500L name, a reinterpretation of its classic was launched on the market, slightly larger and even with an SUV variant. Coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the small 500 (1957), Fiat takes the opportunity to renew the 500L, which will remain available in three variants: Cross, Urban and Wagon.

The Fiat 500L 2017 comes in three completely distinct variants and can even have seven seats in the case of the Wagon (which was previously called Living). The changes to the 2017 model focus on the front end, but there are also improvements in interior quality and even in driving dynamics. What has not changed is the interior space, the best in its category according to the Italian manufacturer.

Fiat 500L Urban, the city 500 in XL version

The Urban variant gives its name to the 500L in its most conventional version, which has received important changes to the front design and interior finish. It features new bumpers with a stronger 500 essence, with details reminiscent of the brand’s small car and a more retro style (an area in which the Italian firm is an expert). The daytime running lights also take their cue from the 500, being the same as those of the city car.

Inside, the changes are minor but noticeable, as it gets a new steering wheel (shared with the other brands in the group Fiat), improved dashboard finishes with new soft-touch materials and a considerable increase in the sense of quality, while also renewing the instrument cluster and incorporating a new multimedia system with a 7-inch touchscreen and all kinds of connectivity (with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay). The finish of this touchscreen deserves special mention, avoiding at all times the annoying reflections that are common in other similar multimedia systems.

Fiat 500L Cross, for those who want an SUV

The Cross variant does not aim to fill the gap left by the Fiat 500X but rather to complement it for those who seek an SUV with the vocation of an MPV and who occasionally venture into the countryside, where all-wheel drive is not necessary. This is where the 500L Cross becomes a true alternative, combining the best of an MPV (in terms of space and practical solutions) with the SUV-style design that remains a major trend.

The front end features new bumpers that emphasise the SUV style, as well as a new air intake in the central grille that also gives it a more rugged look. This version comes as standard with M+S tyres which are really useful if you leave the asphalt (and which not all SUVs fit as standard).

Another novelty of the Fiat 500L Cross lies in its off-road capability, which is now reinforced by the Mode Selector with several driving modes: Normal, Traction+ and Gravity Control. The Mode Selector acts on the stability control, distributing traction between the two front wheels in the event of loss of grip, which can be a great help in mud or even occasional cases of snow. Obviously, it is not an all-wheel-drive system. What is useful, however, is the Gravity Control function, which mimics a hill descent control by keeping the car at low speed on long descents over tracks or difficult terrain.

Fiat 500L Wagon, a seven-seat 500

The largest version of the 500L, previously named Living, is now available with up to 7 seats, and the brand has named it Fiat 500L Wagon. At 4.38 metres long, it offers up to seven seats, although the third-row seats are really only suitable for children, since anyone over 1.65 metres will not be comfortable there.

The exterior design is almost identical to the 500L Urban, except at the rear, where the extra space this version offers is evident. As well as having two extra seats, it also has a larger boot which, with five seats in use, can reach up to 638 litres of capacity.

Engine range

The new Fiat 500L is available with two petrol engines —

1.4 16V with 95 CV and 0.9 TwinAir with 105 CV — an engine that can run on LPG — 1.4 TJet with 120 CV — another that can run on CNG — 0.9 TwinAir with 80 CV — and the diesel range with the 1.3 16V MultiJet with 95 CV and the powerful 1.6 16V MultiJet with 120 CV.

Equipment of the Fiat 500L

The equipment levels have been simplified into two: Popstar and Lounge. Even the base trim comes with ABS, ESP, 6 airbags, manual air conditioning, cruise control, electric and heated mirrors, a colour TFT instrument display, a 5″ UconnectTM radio with Bluetooth and voice control, a 60/40 split rear seat and daytime running lights. The next level adds seats in a specific upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic glass roof, parking sensors, front fog lights, the UconnectTM HD Live system with a 7″ touchscreen, 16-inch alloy wheels, rain and light sensors, and the boot with the practical “Cargo Box” solution.

Behind the wheel of the Fiat 500L Cross 1.6 MTJ 120 CV and the Fiat 500L Urban 1.6 MTJ 120 CV

During the presentation we were able to test two variants that will surely be the most successful among future buyers, especially the Fiat 500L Cross with the 120 CV 1.6 Multijet diesel engine. The engine is an old acquaintance of the brand, with more than decent performance and very modest consumption.

The Cross version comes as standard with M+S tyres which, in combination with the Mode Selector and greater ground clearance, allow you to get out of small scrapes, tracks and low-grip situations with ease. We were surprised by Gravity Control, because it works like a hill descent control, which is useful on long descents over tracks and enhances the 500L’s off-road capabilities.

The price of the new Fiat 500L starts at 11,950 euros for the Popstar trim with the 95 CV petrol engine. The diesel range is available from 14,990 euros; both prices include the brand’s promotional discount and the financing discount.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira