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Fiat Rolls Out Its “Big” 500
Fiat SpA new 500L sedan is a five-passenger sedan that moves the brand, which until now has been limited in the U.S. to the two-door 500 city car, into the American small-car mainstream.
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Fiat SpA new 500L sedan is a five-passenger sedan that moves the brand, which until now has been limited in the U.S. to the two-door 500 city car, into the American small-car mainstream.
The $20,000 500L rides on the B-segment platform used by the Fiat Punto in Europe. Compared to its A-segment 500 cousin, the new model is 27 inches longer, six inches wider and taller and features a wheelbase 12 inches longer.
Fiat says the car earns a Large Car interior designation from the Environmental Protect Agency and has 42% more room than the standard 500. The car, at about 3,200 lbs, also weights 600 lbs more.
Fiat makes the 500 in Toluca, Mexico. The larger 500L is being produced in Kragujevac, Serbia, in a former Yugo plant Fiat acquired in 2008 from Zastava Automobil a.d.
The North American version of the 500L varies from the model introduced last year in Europe. That model's engine options include a 900-cc two-cylinder gasoline and small diesel. All U.S. versions of the car will come with the turbocharged 1.4-liter, 160-hp engine used in the high-performance 500 Abarth model. Buyers have the choice of a 6-speed manual or 6-speed dual clutch automatic transmission.
The U.S. powerplant is fitted with Fiat's MultiAir valve system that controls intake valves individually. Fiat expects the 500L with dual-clutch transmission to earn EPA fuel economy ratings of 24 mpg city, 33 mpg highway and 27 mpg combined. The manual gearbox version is expected to be rated at 25/33/28 mpg.
The 500L uses the same MacPherson struts in front and twist-beam rear axle suspension found in the two-door 500. But the front end incorporates a new crossmember to meet U.S. crash standards. The suspension system was modified with softer bushings and Koni shock absorbers to suit the North American market.
The new model carries over the front end of the 500. But it greatly expands side window area, including an optional two-piece sunroof. Fiat says the larger proportions of the 500L make it a direct competitor in the U.S. to the Honda Fit and Ford Fiesta small sedans.