The Fiat 500L Review: Is It as Bad as They Say?
The Fiat 500L. Just the name conjures images of Italian flair, urban chic, and… well, a bit of controversy. While the original Fiat 500 charmed the world with its diminutive size and undeniable cuteness, its larger, more practical sibling, the 500L, often finds itself on the receiving end of mixed reviews. But is the criticism justified? Does the 500L live up to its promise of versatility and spaciousness, or is it a case of style over substance? This review dives deep to provide an objective assessment of the Fiat 500L, helping you decide if it’s the right car for you.
Unveiling the Fiat 500L: A Compact MPV with a Twist
The Fiat 500L, launched in 2012, represents a significant departure from the classic 500’s formula. Instead of a compact city car, the 500L is a compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), designed to offer more space, practicality, and a higher driving position. It shares the iconic 500’s styling cues, but in a significantly larger package. Key features typically include:
- Increased Interior Space: Offering more headroom, legroom, and cargo capacity compared to the original 500.
- Flexible Seating: Rear seats often slide and fold for adaptable storage configurations.
- Panoramic Roof (Often Available): Enhancing the sense of spaciousness and offering a bright interior.
- Variety of Engine Options: Typically including petrol and diesel engines to cater to different driving needs.
Design and Aesthetics: A Matter of Taste
The Fiat 500L’s design is arguably its most polarizing aspect. While it undoubtedly borrows from the 500’s retro-inspired aesthetic, the larger dimensions and boxier shape can be a bit of an acquired taste.
- Exterior: The “squashed” appearance and high roofline might not appeal to everyone. However, the distinctive headlights, chrome accents, and color options contribute to its unique character.
- Interior: The interior often features a colorful and playful design, with a focus on practicality. The large windscreen and optional panoramic roof contribute to excellent visibility. However, some may find the materials used to be a bit cheap, especially in older models.
Driving Experience: Practicality Over Performance
The Fiat 500L isn’t designed to be a sports car. Its primary focus is on practicality and ease of use.
- Handling: Expect a comfortable ride rather than sharp handling. The high driving position offers good visibility, making it well-suited for city driving.
- Engine Performance: The available engines typically offer adequate performance for everyday driving. However, don’t expect blistering acceleration.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel efficiency is generally good, especially with the diesel engine options.
Interior Space and Practicality: Where the 500L Shines
This is where the 500L truly differentiates itself from the original 500. It offers significantly more space for passengers and cargo.
- Passenger Space: Plenty of headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers.
- Cargo Capacity: A decent-sized boot, expandable thanks to the folding rear seats.
- Storage Solutions: Numerous storage compartments and cubbyholes throughout the cabin.
Reliability and Common Problems: What to Watch Out For
While the Fiat 500L generally offers a reasonable ownership experience, potential buyers should be aware of some common issues:
- Electrical Problems: Reports of electrical gremlins, such as issues with the infotainment system or warning lights.
- Engine Issues: Some owners have reported problems with engine components, particularly with the turbochargers in some petrol models.
- Build Quality: Some critics point out the use of lower-quality materials in certain areas of the interior.
It is highly recommended to research specific model year reliability reports and consider a pre-purchase inspection before buying a used 500L.
The Verdict: Is the Fiat 500L Worth Considering?
The Fiat 500L is a car that divides opinion. It’s not perfect, and it certainly has its flaws, but it offers a unique blend of practicality, Italian style, and affordability.
Consider the 500L if:
- You prioritize interior space and practicality over driving dynamics.
- You like the distinctive styling and aren’t afraid to stand out from the crowd.
- You need a compact vehicle with good fuel economy.
- You’re looking for an affordable MPV.
You might want to reconsider if:
- You prioritize driving pleasure and performance.
- You’re concerned about potential reliability issues.
- You prefer a more conventional design.
Ultimately, the Fiat 500L’s appeal will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It’s a car that demands a test drive and careful consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Fiat 500L a reliable car?
Reliability can be a mixed bag. While some owners report trouble-free experiences, others have encountered electrical and engine-related issues. Researching specific model year reliability reports and obtaining a pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended.
2. How spacious is the Fiat 500L?
The 500L offers significantly more space than the original 500. It provides ample headroom and legroom for passengers, along with a decent-sized boot that can be expanded by folding the rear seats.
3. What engine options are available for the Fiat 500L?
The 500L typically comes with a range of petrol and diesel engines, often including a 1.4L petrol, a turbocharged 0.9L TwinAir petrol, and a 1.3L or 1.6L MultiJet diesel. Engine availability may vary based on the model year and market.
4. Is the Fiat 500L good for families?
Yes, the 500L can be a good option for small families. Its spacious interior, practical storage solutions, and available child-friendly features (like Isofix points) make it suitable for carrying children.
