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2017 Fiat 500 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

Fiat 500 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Distinctive retro charm
  • Thrifty performance
  • Ample interior space for a compact car

Cons

  • Reduced power options in non-Abarth trims
  • Limited headroom with sunroof models
  • Convertible version has restricted visibility

Mileage (EPA estimate)

28 city, 33 highway, 30 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

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Price
Year

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Lots of choice in a characterful package

The 2017 Fiat 500 simplifies its lineup to three trim levels: Pop, Lounge, and Abarth, focusing on delivering a more streamlined shopping experience over previous model years. While the turbocharged 1.4L engine is now exclusive to the Abarth model, all trims benefit from standard enhancements such as the six-speaker Alpine® audio system and a comprehensive driver information display.

All Fiat 500 years

What is new for the 2017 Fiat 500?

  • The Easy, Retro, Sport, and Turbo trims have been discontinued for 2017.
  • 500 trims have been upgraded with Automatic Transmission as standard equipment this year.
  • Full Roof Rack and Tow Hitch features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The Abarth trim now comes with Satellite Radio Ready as standard equipment.
  • The Pop trim now comes with Alloy Wheels and Alpine Sound System as standard equipment.

Fiat 500 photos

5 reasons to buy the 2017 Fiat 500

1. Fuel-sipping performance 

With the base 101-hp 1.4L engine, the 2017 Fiat 500 offers respectable fuel economy, particularly suited for city driving and regular commutes. It'll manage an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined with the manual transmission, while automatic models get 29 mpg combined.

 The car's lightweight design and fuel-sipping engine provide a balance that's practical every day. 

2. Retro styling with modern flair 

The Fiat 500's iconic retro design is further enhanced in the 2017 model, blending nostalgic charm and contemporary aesthetics. The range of color options ensures you're able to find something that suits your style. Whether you're into soft pastel shades, bold brights, or classy neutrals, you've got options. 

3. Lots of standard features 

All trims of the 2017 Fiat 500 come equipped with a six-speaker Alpine® audio system and an informative Uconnect® driver display. If you want more from your sound system, there's an available Beats® audio system. Other standard features include Bluetooth® phone and audio connectivity and two USB ports. Look out for Lounge models if you want rear parking sensors, automatic climate control, and heated front seats. 

4. Agile and enjoyable to drive 

The Fiat 500's compact dimensions contribute to its agile handling, making it a fun choice for urban driving. The Abarth model, with its 1.4L turbocharged engine, offers an even more spirited driving experience. The sports suspension on Abarth models provides maximum grip with minimal body roll, too, making it a great choice if you love carving up mountain curves. 

5. Surprisingly spacious interior 

For a compact car, the 2017 Fiat 500 offers a surprisingly roomy interior. With 9.5 cu-ft of cargo space, expanding to 30.2 cu-ft with rear seats folded, it provides ample room for everyday activities. The convertible model slightly reduces this space to 5.4 cu-ft but still maintains a good level of practicality for a car of its size.

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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

Abarth 2WD 2D Hatchback

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Alpine Sound System
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Manual Transmission
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Beats Audio System
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Leather Seats
  • Navigation System
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Sunroof(s)

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

1.4L

Horsepower

160

Torque (ft-lbs)

170

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

10.5

Wheelbase

90.6"

Overall length

144.4"

Width

64.1"

Height

58.7"

Leg room

F 40.7"/R 31.7"

Head room

F 38.9"/R 35.5"

Front tires

P195/45HR16

Rear tires

P195/45HR16

Seating capacity

4

Transmission

Manual 5

2017 Fiat 500 FAQ

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