Electric City Runner: The Femina Todina for Modern Families
The Fiat 600 adopts the widely recognized electric technology from Stellantis into a cute vehicle setup. The success of this merger hinges on the user's financial resources.
The electric Fiat 500 has a stylish appearance but may not be overly practical. Its bigger Crossover sibling, model number 600, aims to combine style and practicality but must make certain trade-offs, primarily based on personal preferences.
In terms of design, the 600 bears a strong resemblance to its culturally influential little kin. The latter, debuting in 2007 with circular headlights and a striking retro charm, garnered affection across Europe. It managed to maintain its visual edge as the 500e in the electric era.
The Fiat 600 has a similar rounded body and the same round headlights, but with two additional doors and different proportions. Its charm factor is not diminished - this is also due to the overall dimensions being increased slightly. With a length of 4.17 meters, the Crossover is approximately half a meter longer than the city car. Those who opt for the high-end equipment line "La Prima" and display boldness in color and accessories can certainly make the 600e stand out, but it may not be as visually appealing as the 500e.
Greater affordability in materials
This extends to the interior, which exhibits a touch of Dolce Vita style from the Sixties but primarily uses affordable materials. This may be overlooked given that functionality and seating space are acceptable. Those who don't require extra-large sizes will find ample room in the small Italian, even in the rear. It's relatively spacious once the somewhat narrow door opening is passed. The trunk can accommodate 360 liters behind the hatch, thanks to a double load floor, and no large obstacles need to be overcome during unloading. Small items can be easily stored in the wide central console.
In practical terms, the Crossover fits the city car Fiat 500 as expected in the wallet. In terms of efficiency - one of the primary advantages of the little brother - it performs comparably: The 600 consumes roughly 16 kWh for 100 kilometers in mixed driving (without range losses), which under mild temperatures provides approximately 340 kilometers (manufacturer's claim: 409 kilometers). Those on the highway can expect around 250 kilometers with moderate speed, facilitating longer trips. However, Fiat only offers a maximum of 100 kW at the fast charger, which is below average in today's competition. A wall box or standard charging pole are available as options from the factory.
More efficiency than power
The Fiat 600 provides more efficiency than power. The electric motor generates 87 kW (117 hp) and 220 Nm of torque, which is sufficient for a top speed of 150 km/h. The 0-100 km/h sprint takes 9.1 seconds. The battery pack has a capacity of 42 kWh and can be charged from 0 to 80% in about 35 minutes with a fast charger. The WLTP range is 340 kilometers. The 600 is available in two versions: "Action" and "La Prima". The latter is more luxurious and offers a larger touchscreen, leather seats, and other upgrades. The price difference is around €5,000. The Fiat 600 is a practical and affordable electric vehicle, particularly appealing to those who prioritize efficiency over power. It is a worthy successor to the iconic Fiat 500.
Fiat 600e - technical data
- Five-seater, five-door compact SUV
- Length: 4.17 meters, width: 1.78 meters (with mirrors: 1.98 meters), height: 1.52 meters, wheelbase: 2.56 meters, trunk volume: 360-1231 liters
- Front-mounted electric motor, 115 kW/156 PS, maximum torque: 250 Newton-meters
- 0-100 km/h: 9.0 s, top speed: 156 km/h
- Front-wheel drive, consumption: 15.1-15.2 kWh/100 km (NEDC), test consumption: 16 kWh/100 km, NEDC range: 409 km, battery: 54 kWh (gross)/51 kWh (net), charging power: 11 kW (AC)/100 kW (DC)
- Price: from 36,500 Euro.
The Fiat 600e boasts a powerful 115 kW/156 PS front electric motor, which is somewhat focused on efficiency rather than performance. The 260 Nm of torque ensure smooth driving characteristics, but the 600e does not excel in rapid acceleration like other electric vehicles. The same applies to the "Sport" mode button, which does offer a bit more responsiveness. In the "Normal" setting, the car's smooth take-off and low noise level are appreciated. The latter is not only motor-related but also due to good sound insulation. Only at highway speeds do wind swirls around the S-pillar cause audible disturbances. However, the suspension is always comfortable, effectively absorbing bumps, potholes, and joints during long trips as well as city traffic.
The Fiat demands at least 36,500 Euro. The cost is balanced by a sufficient level of comfort and functionality equipment in the base version: climate control, cruise control, and Apple Car Play/Android Auto are always included.
The Design-Focused 600e Falls Short on Affordability:
The design potential of the 600e isn't fully unleashed at its current cost; just the monochrome Uni-Tones Red, White, and Black finishes are offered for the body. The design is completed with two-tone wheel rims and a sprinkle of red accents in the cabin. If you're purchasing the 600e mainly for its appeal, consider the "La Prima" edition, which is 6,000 Euro pricier, boasts appealing metallic colors like Orange, Blue, Green, and Beige, 18-inch wheels, and extra chrome trimmings.
More Budget-Friendly Competitors Exist:
In the competitive landscape, the 600e isn't alone; its family members like the Jeep Avenger, DS 3, Peugeot e-2008, and Opel Mokka are slightly pricier options at the moment. For those seeking significant savings, there are comparable models from rival brands too, such as the Hyundai Kona Electric crossover and the ID.3 and Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric sedans.
The 600e offers decent space management, high comfort, and a satisfying equipment level at a reasonable price. Its range and charging speed may not set records, but they should suffice for multiple usage scenarios. However, the design and lifestyle aspects are the primary selling points, but the Crossover only plays this card as an expensive "La Prima" model.
