Fiat 500 Hatchback (08 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 21 February 2011
Since 2004 Fiat has been doing what it does best - producing small cars whose appeal is in their character and value. Following the success of the Panda and Grande Punto, the 500 is another small car. However, this one unashamedly appeals to the emotions and is a modern interpretation of a classic small Fiat from the past. The 500 echoes the design of the rear-engined original, although is built to modern standards, and is very safe. Easy to drive and available with a host of customisation options, the little Fiat is a stylish small car with plenty of characterful.
4 out of 5

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4 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£9,960 - £16,810

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Used price range:

£5,627 - £12,995

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Stylish exterior and interior, easy to drive, vast accessories list, retro looks

Noisy, uncomfortable on long journeys

Since 2004 Fiat has been doing what it does best - producing small cars whose appeal is in their character and value. Following the success of the Panda and Grande Punto, the 500 is another small car. However, this one unashamedly appeals to the emotions and is a modern interpretation of a classic small Fiat from the past. The 500 echoes the design of the rear-engined original, although is built to modern standards, and is very safe. Easy to drive and available with a host of customisation options, the little Fiat is a stylish small car with plenty of characterful.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    4 out of 5

    "Small cars are meant to be nimble enough to keep up with traffic around town and all versions of the..."

  • Handling

    3.5 out of 5

    "While it might not be as pin-sharp as a MINI on the road, the 500 is certainly nimble and able to be..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    3 out of 5

    "The 500 will be fine for two adults on short town trips but the lack of lumbar support really shows..."

  • Practicality

    3 out of 5

    "As a small car the 500 has a small boot, but at 185 litres it is larger than the luggage space..."

  • Equipment

    4 out of 5

    "The 500 is unusual in offering seven airbags and remote central locking across the range. The base..."

  • Behind the wheel

    4.5 out of 5

    "The appealing looks of the 500 extend to the interior with a choice of sport or luxury finishes for..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    4 out of 5

    "With part-exchange values expected to range from £4500-£5500 after three years, depending on the..."

  • Green credentials

    4 out of 5

    "The 500 delivers an excellent environmental performance overall with two engines producing carbon..."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    4.5 out of 5

    "The 500 is one of the safest small cars on sale. It scored a maximum star rating (five out of five)..."

  • Reliability

    3.5 out of 5

    "The 500 should prove generally reliable. It shares many major components with the Fiat Panda and..."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    3 out of 5

    "Margins on small cars tend to be small, so there won't be much room for manoeuvre for them when it..."

  • Buying used

    3.5 out of 5

    "Fiat dealers will have the best choice but look for Lounge models if you like more luxury and Sport..."

  • Selling

    4 out of 5

    "The 500 plays up to people's emotions so should be easy to sell - a car that can appeal to the head..."

Gallery

  • Interior Fiat 500 Hatchback (08 on)
  • Exterior Fiat 500 Hatchback (08 on)
  • Exterior Fiat 500 Hatchback (08 on)
  • Exterior Fiat 500 Hatchback (08 on)

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Owners' reviews