2016 Fiat 500X Review
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The Fiat 500X is a compact SUV that has been in production since 2014, competing with vehicles like the Nissan Juke, Kia Soul, and Renault Captur. It debuted at the Paris Motor Show and is manufactured in Melfi, Italy, alongside the Jeep Renegade, targeting a distinct market segment.
The Fiat 500X has become one of the most popular crossover vehicles in the UAE.
Exterior Design
Based on the Fiat 500 platform, the Fiat 500X was designed at the brand's styling center, expanding the production line for models such as the Fiat 500, 500C, and 500L. With a length of 4,250 mm, a width of 1,800 mm, and a height of 1,600 mm, it maintains the aesthetic foundations of the Fiat 500.
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Retaining the beauty principles of its predecessor, it presents a robust appearance characterized by aggressive front pillars and a prominent rear diffuser, contributing to the refined look of the vehicle's length.
Interior Design
The interior features a simple design with just the right amount of gloss to complement this simplicity. The infotainment system, positioned above the dashboard, is adorned in glossy black surrounded by silver accents, a design element that is consistent throughout the cabin.
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The seats, door panels, and steering wheel are covered in flexible leather, with silver accents breaking the monotony of the black color.
Safety and Technology
Boasting high ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the 2017 Fiat 500X belongs to the top tier of safe vehicles. In addition to the anti-lock braking system found in all standard market vehicles, it is equipped with an electronic stability control system and dynamic steering torque that, when combined, enhance safety and improve oversteer correction.
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The 6.5-inch touchscreen, which operates the brand's Uconnect system, is connected to six speakers delivering 180 watts, along with Bluetooth connectivity, audio streaming, USB, and AUX inputs. While navigation and 3D maps are user-friendly, the rear camera is significantly cropped, which is a drawback in an otherwise good system.
Driving Experience
Comprising 70% high-strength steel, the vehicle weighs 1,345 kg, providing a truly lively driving experience. Equipped with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 184 horsepower and 237 Nm of torque, these numbers affirm the car's strength.
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Its engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, a first in this segment. Although this Fiat model leads its category, it has received criticism from many.
The vehicle benefits from a gearbox and low fuel consumption, reducing engine control at high speeds. However, it suffers from drawbacks like acceleration lag and constant gear shifting that disrupt the driving smoothness.
Verdict
Priced at AED 99,000, the 2017 Fiat 500X is significantly more expensive than its competitors, the Kia Soul, Renault Captur, and Nissan Juke, which are priced at AED 57,000, AED 67,900, and AED 85,000 respectively.
As the Juke is the only competitor that offers all-wheel drive, it could be considered a viable alternative. But why look at alternatives when the uniqueness and stylish design are exclusive to the Fiat 500X?
