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2016 Fiat 500 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Fiat 500 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Charming retro aesthetics
  • Frugal performance
  • Surprisingly roomy for its size

Cons

  • Automatic transmission is available, not standard
  • Limited headroom in some models
  • Reduced visibility in the convertible model

Mileage (EPA estimate)

28 city, 34 highway, 30 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

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Retro appeal in a compact size

The Fiat 500 continues to enchant with its distinctive retro style, now with a few more tech features for 2016. This model year introduces a standard five-inch touchscreen interface, offering optional navigation. Additionally, the introduction of the new "Easy" trim and the continuation of the stylish 1957 edition add to the 500's appeal.

All Fiat 500 years

What is new for the 2016 Fiat 500?

  • The 500 is available in a variety of new trims, including the Easy and Retro.
  • The 1957 Edition and Ribelle trims have been discontinued for 2016.
  • 500 trims have been upgraded with Front Seat Heaters and Bluetooth Technology as standard equipment this year.
  • The Abarth trim now comes with Skylight(s) as standard equipment.
  • The Turbo trim now comes with Parking Sensors, Skylight(s), Rear Spoiler, and Alpine Sound System as standard equipment.
  • The Lounge trim now comes with Leather Seats as standard equipment.

5 reasons to buy the 2016 Fiat 500

1. Balanced performance 

The base 1.4L engine in the 2016 Fiat 500 maintains its reputation for fuel-sipping performance. It offers an EPA-estimated 33 mpg combined with the manual transmission.

 If you prefer an automatic, you'd get an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined, balancing convenience and economy.
 

2. Retro icon 

The Fiat 500's time-honored design is complemented by an array of vibrant color options, accentuating its iconic look. The Cabrio models offer the allure of open-air driving, perfect for scenic city cruising or a breezy weekend getaway. If you want something with a more aggressive, sporty style, you can't go wrong with the performance-focused Abarth model. 

3. Something for everyone 

Standard features such as Bluetooth® connectivity and a six-speaker sound system are just the beginning. Look out for the new-for-2016 option packages categorized as "Collections" to find even more features. You'll be able to find everything from audio upgrades to unique interior designs. No matter whether you're after style, convenience, or hot hatch performance, there's a 2016 Fiat 500 out there waiting for you. 

4. Agile handling 

The 2016 Fiat 500 is a joy to drive, with its compact size lending itself well to agile handling, ideal for navigating through urban landscapes or enjoying winding country roads. The Abarth model, with its turbocharged 1.6L engine and enhanced suspension, provides an exhilarating driving experience. If you're after a compact car with a go-kart-like handling experience, you should test drive the Fiat 500. 

5. Surprisingly practical 

Despite its compact exterior, the 2016 Fiat 500 offers a surprisingly spacious interior. In the trunk, there's 9.5 cu-ft of cargo space, expandable to 30.2 cu-ft with the rear seats folded. The Cabrio model slightly reduces this space to 5.4 cu-ft but still maintains practicality for everyday use. 

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Fiat 500 an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Fiat 500 18th out of 27 among Subcompact Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Fiat 500

Fiat 500 features and specs

Pop 2WD 2D Convertible

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Manual Transmission
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Side Airbags
  • Soft Top
  • Traction Control
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cloth Seats
  • Leather Seats

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

1.4L

Horsepower

101

Torque (ft-lbs)

98

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

10.5

Wheelbase

90.6"

Overall length

139.6"

Width

64.1"

Height

59.8"

Leg room

F 40.7"/R 31.7"

Head room

F 38.6"/R 36.8"

Front tires

P185/55HR15

Rear tires

P185/55HR15

Seating capacity

4

Transmission

Manual 5

2016 Fiat 500 FAQ

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