2017 Fiat 500 Lounge Hatchback
By Joe Mavilia
Overview:
This is the 2017 Fiat 500 Lounge Hatchback. Until you drive a while in Fiat’s ‘moccasins’ you really have no basis for consideration of its character and performance. If you are in the market for economy and performance all wrapped up in one car, this is a must-see option. Of course, you might say it is only for two people, but that isn’t necessarily true.
Even over the road trips are comfortable for two or acceptable for 4 adults for local short transportation. The ride is smooth and comfortable and I think you too will be pleasantly surprised. What is amazing is that you don’t have that ‘small car’ feeling. It is robust and sure footed.
This is a great commuter with fuel economy of around 33 mpg overall, and it will actually carry four adults with plenty of leg and headroom.
General Information:
It is assembled in Toluca, Mexico; Parts – US/Canadian 19%, Mexico 52%; Engine – USA and transmission – Japan; Classification is Micro Compact. Cars from Fiat: 124 Spider, 500, 500c, 500e, 500L and 500 X.
Handling & Performance:
My wife and I took this Bug-like (in the tradition of VW Bug of historic popularity) on a TREK to Las Vegas for a rafting trip down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. We were amazed at how it never took a back seat to any car or truck on the highway. Not only did it keep up….. it led the way.
Very impressive performance, for sure, but handling is remarkably the same as larger cars. It is very stable and solid from closing the doors and trunk to the feel on the road. Frankly I would never have imagined it wouldn’t simply be like some other small cars. But it is an incredible little car.
Styling:
Fiat is the 7th largest car company in the world and wouldn’t have achieved that fact unless the consuming public found its products attractive. This Lounge is ‘retro’ with a solid painted dash reminiscent of period cars of the mid to late 20th century.
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Cost:
Amazing if you think about it. How can they make a capable car like this for 18 grand?
Conveniences and comfort:
This car sports most of the features found on larger luxury brands and it is comfortable for a short trip with 4 adults. But you will not be carrying much luggage at the same time.
Consumer Recommendations:
I believe you will be impressed, so be sure to include it on your test drives. Let me know what you think when you drive it.
Recognized Competition:
Fiat 500 Lounge $18,000 (seats 4), Smart for two $19,000, MINI 2-door $22,000 (seats 4), VWGolf $19,000 (seats 5).
Good News:
Very affordable commuter, zippy performance, great fuel economy and generally a fun experience.
Bad News:
Not for those needing space for more than two with baggage.
Standard Equipment:
1.4 liter 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, front and side seat mounted and side curtain airbags and driver knee bag, stability control, cruise control, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes, Tire pressure monitor, Remote keyless entry, audio system with Sirius XM radio, USB, Aux ports and 12 volt power outlet, electronic information center, Uconnect, integrated voice command with Bluetooth, rear park assist, hill start assist, power windows and locks, engine immobilizer, 5” touchscreen display, LATCH child system, climate control, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, tilt steering column, leather trimmed bucket seats / front seats heated, rear 50/50 split fold down seat, 15” aluminum wheels, fixed glass roof with sun shade, fog lights, power heated mirrors, rear window wiper / washer, tinted glass windows.
Gas Stats:
$3.05/ Gal avg. June 25, 2017
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
27 City and 33 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $18,495.