2023 Fiat 500e review

Launched in 2007, few models in our market have had a shelf life as long as the pint-sized Fiat 500.

​​Although it never gained the same level of nostalgic support that BMW’s Mini enjoyed, loyal followers have coveted the sporty Abarth variants and limited editions. With a remarkable number of engine variants (even a diesel), it’s no surprise an EV version has come our way.

Available in one spec level, La Prima, the 500e is $52,500 and has a 42kWh lithium-ion battery and 87kW/220Nm FWD electric motor. Claimed range is 311km and charging is via a CCS2 port. The 500e has a miniscule three-year/150,000km general warranty with an eight-year battery warranty.

Its pricing positions the 500e against well-credentialled rivals such as the Nissan Leaf, Kia Niro and Hyundai Kona. These all have more powerful electric motors and larger batteries (and, in the case of the new Kona, a 370km standard range). BYD’s Dolphin EV, currently the cheapest here, is almost $11,000 less and has a similar claimed range.

None of the above will likely deter Fiat 500 enthusiasts, who will fancy its cute looks and heritage over power and torque figures – and since the 500 has always primarily been a city dweller, its meagre range isn’t a big concern.

Changing to electric power has enabled designers to revisit both the interior and exterior and you can pick the 500e from the rest of the range courtesy of the two-piece ‘eyebrow’ headlamps and larger badging.

Inside, a central 10.25-inch touchscreen dominates the dash, while eco-leather seat material and a new soft-touch steering wheel add a level of class.

But some things never change and the reach-only steering wheel adjustment feels at odds with a $50k-plus light hatch, as do the hard and plasticky surface finishes. At least the 500e is fitted with keyless entry and a reversing camera.

As in the Abarth 592, the driver is perched up high in the cabin, which provides a decent view of surroundings and ergonomically isn’t too bad, although the button-operated gear selector in the dash requires a firm touch to activate and the electric button to open the doors is more form than function.

Perhaps mindful of the woeful electrics in early Fiats, conventional interior door handles are tucked lower in the door. Storage and luggage options are, of course, on the tight side, and there’s no ‘frunk’.

While the battery adds considerable weight, the 500e still comes in under 1300kg, giving it an advantage over heavier EV opposition, and performance is better than the meagre power and torque numbers suggest.

The electric motor’s 220Nm is delivered from the get-go and, while the 0-100km/h time of nine seconds isn’t all that flash, the 500e’s diminutive size amplifies a zippy feel. Its ride and handling aren’t as sharp as its sporty siblings, but light steering and a small turning circle are perfectly suited to urban driving.

There are three drive modes – Normal (everyday driving), Range (where brake regeneration allows one-pedal driving) and Sherpa (which halves the car’s maximum speed and turns off air-con to minimise power use, should you get caught short on range).

The 2023 Fiat 500e at a glance

Based on numbers, it’s easy to dismiss the 500e. It’s pricey, its power and torque figures are average and it’s light on range. But what it lacks on paper it makes up for in physical presence and a fun drive.

Pros: Head turner; satisfying performance

Cons: Firm seats; weird driving position