It is ironic that Fiat has always exercised its brand novelties with its strategic partners; formerly GM and now Jeep (through Fiat-Chrysler-Automobile’s ownership of the brands). Incidentally, ‘Sedici’ was one of those clever little model-naming devices that Fiat creates regularly…translated into English, it means ‘16’; the humour resides in that number being the product of a simple arithmetical sum: ‘4x4’. The 500X has been a great and understandable success since its launch. However, the time has come for the customary round of mid-life model changes.
It has been updated inside and out with mildly altered looks and modern technology to keep it competitive. Still available in a choice of three trim levels, Urban, City Cross and Cross, the three petrol engines now include a pair of entirely new and significantly more efficient turbo-petrol units.
Revised daylight running lights and LED rear lamp clusters are standard across the range. The new LED headlights, made in partnership with Magneti Marelli (FCA’s parts manufacturing firm), grant the front of the revised model a clear and distinctive visual identity. Differentiating between the models is made easier by the new front and rear bumper designs, with the Cross adding rugged skid plates.
The 500X’s interior has always benefitted from high-quality trim materials and the revised models now feature a slightly different instrument panel and steering wheel. However, the most radical of changes is the introduction of Fiat’s new, aluminium, modular petrol engines. Available in both 1.0-litre three-cylinder and 1.3-litre four-cylinder forms, they develop 120 and 150bhp respectively, connected to a standard 6-speed manual gearbox, or a twin-clutch automated-manual alternative. The previous 110bhp 1.6-litre unit remains, albeit upgraded to comply with emissions legislation.
The revised 500X incorporates a raft of safety assistance systems and up-to-date infotainment technology. Traffic Sign Recognition, Speed Advisor and Lane Assist are now provided as standard on all versions of the new Fiat 500X. In addition, Blind Spot Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control and City Brake Control can be specified optionally. Fiat’s Uconnect 7.0-inch HD touchscreen system, comes complete with Apple CarPlay integration and Android AutoTM compatibility as standard. Factor-in the 14 different paint colours, a choice of 17.0 and 18.0-inch alloy wheels and seven interior configurations, and customers can tailor a Fiat 500X to meet their personal requirements. Prices start at £16,995, rising to £23,195, all prior to FCD discounts being applied.
