Used Fiat 500: Buyer's Guide
The Fiat 500 is a definitive city car that combines timeless Italian style with exceptional urban agility. It offers a driving experience that is perfectly judged for the city environment, with fuel economy reaching up to 61.4 mpg in the efficient mild hybrid models. Whether you choose the classic petrol or the modern electric version, the 500 remains a lifestyle icon that brings colour and vibrancy to every journey.
Used Fiat 500 Popular Trims
- Pop: The canvas for your style. Features electric windows and LED daytime running lights. A solid, no-nonsense base.
- Lounge: The popular choice. Features a panoramic glass roof that floods the cabin with light and the 5-inch Uconnect touchscreen.
- Sport: The driver's choice. Features sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and a TFT digital instrument cluster.
- Dolcevita: A touch of luxury with chrome accents, a glass roof, and upgraded interior fabrics.
- La Prima: The ultimate expression of luxury for the electric 500e, featuring eco-leather and premium audio.
Used Fiat 500 Popular Battery & Drivetrain Options
- 1.2L Petrol: The dependable workhorse. A smooth and quiet companion for relaxed city cruising with 69 hp.
- 0.9L TwinAir: A punchy 2-cylinder turbo with up to 105 hp. Offers character and up to 74 mpg if driven carefully.
- 1.0L Hybrid: The refined choice. Recovers energy during braking to assist acceleration, delivering 53–61 mpg.
- Electric (500e): The performance flagship. Silent, smooth, and instant power delivers 0–62mph in 9.0 seconds.
Running Costs:
- Real-world MPG: Expect between 47 and 61 mpg for petrol and hybrid models.
- Tax: VED ranges from £0 for the 500e to around £190 for petrol variants.
Used Fiat 500 Practicality
- Boot Space: Offers 185 litres of space, optimized for weekly provisions and gym bags, expanding to 550 litres with rear seats folded.
- Front Comfort: Offers a high, airy seating position that gives a great view of the road, with generous headroom for the driver.
- Storage: Clever door bins and cupholders keep your daily essentials tidy.
Used Fiat 500 Key Features
Standard equipment focuses on essential connectivity and comfort, with technology that enhances your daily drive.
Key Features:
- City Steering: Lightens steering effort for parking, a genuine USP for urban drivers.
- 7-inch Touchscreen: Vibrant display for music and settings, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on compatible models.
- Glass Roof: Creates a bright and uplifting atmosphere in the cabin, standard on Lounge and Dolcevita models.
Desirable Options:
- Rear Parking Sensors: A must-have for protecting your bumper in tight spots.
- Digital Instrument Cluster: A modern, crisp display that reconfigures based on driving mode.
Used Fiat 500 Reliability Rating
The Fiat 500 is a robust companion for city life, provided it is well-maintained. It is a mechanically simple car that rewards regular preventative maintenance.
What to Check on a Test Drive:
- Door Handles: Check the hinge mechanism operates smoothly without sticking.
- Gearbox: Ensure the gear stick moves freely and engages gears without resistance.
- Electronics: Test all windows and lights to ensure the wiring loom is intact.
- Coolant Level: Inspect the reservoir to ensure the system is sealed and holding pressure.
Used Fiat 500 Safety Rating
Safety has evolved significantly over the model's lifespan, where proven protection meets active safety technology.
- Euro NCAP: The 2017 petrol model achieved 3 stars, while the 2021 electric 500e secured a reassuring 4 stars.
- Key Tech: Later models feature 7 airbags and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) as standard.
Awards for the Used Fiat 500
The 500 has been recognised for its enduring appeal and design.
- City Car of the Year: Frequently cited by Auto Express and What Car? for its ability to make urban driving fun.
- Best Small Electric Car: The 500e has won multiple awards for its design and range.
Who is the Used Fiat 500 Best For?
This car is an ideal match for drivers who demand efficiency without compromising on image.
- First-Time Drivers: Low insurance groups and easy driving dynamics build confidence.
- City Commuters: Unbeatable maneuverability and low running costs make it a smart tool for the daily commute.
- Style Conscious: Drivers who want their car to be an extension of their personality.
Key Alternatives to Consider:
- Hyundai i10: Offers more rear space and a 5-door layout for greater practicality.
- Mini Hatch: A premium alternative with sharper handling but higher running costs.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Used Fiat 500
Is the Fiat 500 a good choice for first-time drivers?
The Fiat 500 is an excellent option for new drivers, offering a blend of manageable dimensions and low running costs.
- Insurance Groups: Models start from insurance group 5, making premiums more affordable for new drivers.
- Engine Options: The 1.2L petrol engine offers a manageable 69 hp, ideal for building confidence on the road.
- Safety: Later models feature improved safety, with the 500e achieving a 4-star Euro NCAP rating.
How easy is it to park the Fiat 500 in tight city spaces?
Parking the Fiat 500 is exceptionally easy thanks to its compact dimensions and specialized steering features.
- Dimensions: With a length of just 3571 mm and width of 1627 mm, it fits into spaces other cars cannot.
- City Mode: The dedicated “City” button lightens the steering significantly for effortless low-speed maneuvering.
- Visibility: The high driving position and large windows provide excellent visibility for judging corners.
Does the Fiat 500 hold its value well over time?
The Fiat 500 generally retains its value well due to its enduring popularity and iconic design status.
- Desirability: The retro styling remains a key selling point that sustains demand in the used market.
- Customisation: High-spec models with unique colour combinations often command strong residual values.
- Reliability: A solid reputation for urban durability helps maintain buyer confidence and resale prices.
What connectivity features are included in the Fiat 500 Uconnect system?
The Uconnect system in the Fiat 500 offers a comprehensive suite of connectivity features to keep you linked on the move.
- Touchscreen: Post-2016 models feature a 5-inch or 7-inch HD touchscreen interface.
- Smartphone Integration: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on the 7-inch system for seamless app use.
- Bluetooth: Hands-free calling and audio streaming are integrated for safe communication.
Is the Fiat 500 compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, the Fiat 500 offers full compatibility with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on selected models.
- Availability: These features are standard on models equipped with the 7-inch Uconnect HD touchscreen.
- Functionality: Access maps, music, and messages directly through the car's display.
- Integration: Connect your device via USB for a stable and integrated driving experience.
How does the City steering mode work on the Fiat 500?
The City steering mode is a driver-selectable feature designed to reduce steering effort during urban driving.
- Activation: Press the “City” button on the dashboard to instantly increase power steering assistance.
- Benefit: It makes the steering wheel feel featherlight, perfect for parking and three-point turns.
- Operation: The system automatically reverts to standard weight at higher speeds for stability.
Can I fit a child car seat in the rear of a Fiat 500?
You can fit a child car seat in the rear of a Fiat 500, though it is best suited for occasional use.
- ISOFIX Points: Standard ISOFIX mounting points are provided on the rear seats for secure installation.
- Access: The 3-door layout requires tilting the front seat forward to access the rear bench.
- Space: It is ideal for smaller child seats, as rear legroom is compact.
What are the benefits of the mild hybrid system in the Fiat 500?
The mild hybrid system in the Fiat 500 enhances efficiency and smoothness without requiring plug-in charging.
- Efficiency: It assists the petrol engine to achieve a WLTP fuel economy of up to 61.4 mpg.
- Emissions: CO2 emissions are reduced to between 105–112 g/km, lowering environmental impact.
- Smoothness: The Belt-integrated Starter Generator (BSG) ensures quieter and smoother engine restarts in stop-start traffic.
How much does it cost to tax a Fiat 500 annually?
The annual road tax for a Fiat 500 is competitive, with specific costs depending on the powertrain and emissions.
- Mild Hybrid: Models with 105–112 g/km CO2 emissions attract a standard rate of approximately £190 per year.
- Electric: The Fiat 500e currently benefits from £0 annual road tax, offering significant savings.
- Petrol: Older 1.2L models fall into established tax bands based on their specific CO2 output.
