a Fiat 500 look but the roominess of an electric mini SUV

After the 500, a 100% electric newcomer is arriving in the Fiat range. This is the Fiat 600e, a compact that will be launched at the end of the year with a range of 400 kilometers WLTP.

Like all builders, Fiat will have to become 100% electric over the next few years. A change already well underway with the launch in 2020 of the 500 electric, recently available in an Abarth version (which we were able to test a few weeks ago). But the manufacturer obviously does not intend to stop there and is preparing a complete range.

Design: a big 500?

Among the models that should be talked about a lot, let’s mention the new fiat 600e, which had already shown itself a few weeks earlier. This latest addition to the range has therefore officially been revealed, on this anniversary day of the Fiat 500. A date that was not chosen at random for the compact SUV, which is very strongly inspired by the electric city car.

We indeed find a front face very close to the latter, with these rounded optics, the shape of which is taken up by the fog lamps. The shield has still been slightly redesigned, with an amazing opening in the middle of the grille. This is surmounted by the stylized “600” logo. In profile, we recognize the silhouette of the 500, which has nevertheless taken on a little overweight.

The dimensions are obviously on the rise, with a length displayed at 4.17 meters, nine centimeters longer than its cousin, the Jeep Avenger and 54 cm longer than its little sister. For the moment, Fiat has not yet communicated on the height and width of its compact SUV, which should also remain close to the recently restyled Peugeot e-2008. Customers will be able to opt for several sizes of rims, going up to 18 inches in order to complete its design.

The manufacturer has not yet provided information on the Cx (drag coefficient), and it will therefore be necessary to wait before knowing more. But it should probably not compete with the 0.197 of the Lucid Air, because of its silhouette which remains quite massive all the same.

A spacious interior

Taking a look inside, those who already know the Fiat 500 will not really be out of place. And for good reason, the presentation of the electric SUV is very close to that of the city car, with its rounded lines and its colored dashboard. We find without great surprise the same touch screen, which displays a diagonal of 10.25 inches and which incorporates the latest version of the infotainment system.

The latter is obviously compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is also associated with a 7-inch digital handset very clean design. For the moment, the Italian manufacturer has not yet announced the wheelbase of its compact SUV, but it seems to be rather generous. Thus, no less than five people can take place on board. To note that the driver’s seat is electric, heated and massaging as an optionwhich is rare in this segment.

It is possible to opt for ivory-coloured upholstery, which incorporates the Fiat monogram on the seat cushions. Comfort is essential on board this new 600, which also offers 15 liters of storage space in the driving position and a large 360 ​​liter trunk. The seat can be folded down in 40/60, while the driver takes advantage of a housing to recharge his smartphone in induction.

The car also comes with USB type A and type C sockets front and back. Access on board is keyless, while the trunk has the hands-free function and can be opened using the foot. Finally, a 6-speaker audio system completes the equipment.

Avenger Heart

Not surprisingly, this new Fiat 600 is based on the same platform as the Jeep Avenger, Peugeot e-208 and other DS 3 E-Tense. It also includes the technical data sheet, with its electric motor with 156 horsepower and 260 Nm of torque. Thus, the 0 to 100 km / h is achieved in 9 seconds while the maximum speed has not been confirmed for the moment.

The SUV also uses the 54 kWh battery, which allows it to reach a range of 400 kilometers according to the WLTP cycle. Recharging from 10 to 80% takes only about thirty minutes, at a maximum power of 100 kW in direct current. The car also comes as standard with an 11 kW cable and a Mode 3 for Wallboxes or public terminals. On the other hand, Fiat does not mention the presence of a heat pump.

The new Fiat 600 is equipped with level 2 autonomous driving (adaptive cruise control and lane centering), as well as reading signs and detecting blind spots. It also comes with 360 degree vision, but it will still be necessary to wait before knowing the full equipment of the car, which is not yet available for order.

Several versions

In total, two versions will be offered for this new Fiat 600, namely The Prima and the (RED) variant. This embodies the entry level and is distinguished in particular by its red color. The more upscale version will be available in four colors inspired by Italian landscapes.

For the moment, the manufacturer does not communicate on the launch date of its new 600, which should arrive in dealerships by the end of the year. Its price is not yet known, but it should be announced soon. This newcomer will be assembled at the Tychy plant in Poland, alongside the Jeep Avenger and Alfa Romeo’s future electric SUV.

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