Driving Impressions : 2019 Fiat 500X POP AWD

By: Mark Moskowitz MD

Last model year, Fiat offered a dizzying array of configurations of its 500X subcompact crossover SUV. Variations included two transmissions, two engines (rated at 160 and 180 hp), two drive systems, three wheel sizes, and two special editions. In 2019, they pared the line: one drive train – awd, one engine - a turbocharged, 1.3 liter 177 hp inline 4-cylinder, and one transmission – a 9-spd automatic. Simplicity is good and should save a bit for Fiat as it continues to strive to establish a foothold in the new world. In Europe sales of the 500 have been strong averaging a bit more than 8000 units per month for the past three years. In the US, the 500X has not enjoyed a four-digit sales month since 2016 and has not topped 300 units per month in the last six months.

One can only speculate but part of the problem comes from within. The Fiat shares a platform and not all the best off-road equipment or panache of same with its FCA cousin, the Renegade. Jeep dealers are selling more units of their tiniest offering within a given month than Fiat Dealers sell the X in a year. And this year the 500X comes in at nearly $4500 more than last year's baseline model. A quick comparison with other compact crossover SUVS reveals that price to be among the highest but the comparison isn't fair as the Fiat now comes standard with AWD and an automatic transmission. Baseline wheel size and horsepower also increased this year.

Let's look at the car: cute but little different from those of the last three model years. 2019 brought a cleaner blackened front fascia and distinctive LED taillights. On the inside the dashboard, boldly body colored like a mid-past century Chevrolet, is distinctive and endearing. The cloth seats are attractive, and the interior seems well laid out. The console is low allowing ample knee room for driver and front seat passenger.

Behind the wheel, I am comfortable. The seats are supportive and manual controls are multi-adjustable and easy to engage. A lever adjusts height. It's a long reach to browse radio stations (access the tuning knob) but alternative steering wheel mounted controls obviate the need. The lack of below seat electronics allows more foot room for a pair of back seat passengers who should find conditions adequate for most trips. I suspect some of the room has been robbed from further rearward where others* have measured 12.2 cubic feet of space, a smaller amount than most in the 500X's class. There's much more when the rear seats are folded forward and this measurement of 50.8 cubic feet is listed on the Fiat website.

It's a high-volume tone that reminds the driver to fasten lap and shoulder belt. Buckled in with push button start engaged (or after standard remote start), the drive is easy. Steering is light and direct. It gets a bit heavier (offering a bit more resistance) even at low speeds when Sport Mode is engaged. A Traction Plus Mode is advised for unsavory weather conditions. It transmits more torque to the rear wheels, lessens the tendency to brake lock up and retards acceleration.

The AWD Fiat performed well climbing steep and bumpy mountain roads; it inspired confidence. On paved roads, it handled bumps with aplomb and It was fun on curvy roads. The body lean encountered came on predictably. Acceleration was a mixed bag. Fiat's new 1300 cc uses the latest iteration of its Multi-Air system which employs electronics and hydraulics to manage intake valves and combines it with a low inertia turbocharger to get more horsepower and torque from a lighter weight engine than last year's base model. The Ipad recorded sub 8 second 0-60 times. However, acceleration was not consistent and despite 9 speeds (4 of them overdrive) the Fiat would seem to hesitate as it searched for the proper gear. This could be overcome by moving the shifter to a manual mode and controlling the situation. Note to Fiat: bring back the 6-speed stick!

Mention should be made of the infotainment system. The touchscreen is high up on the dashboard and easy to see. The Uconnect system is well known, intuitive and quick. Apple CarPlay and Android auto are standard and you can't fail to love any car with a built in G-meter.

The baseline Fiat 500X – the Pop – exists in the ultra-competitive sub compact and compact crossover SUV field. The price and 26 mpg average do not initially entice. The perspective changes a bit when viewed in an AWD world. And there are incentives out there. It's worth a look.

*U.S. News and World Report

2019 Fiat 500X POP AWD tinted glass, automatic headlights ParkSense rear park assist, Sirius 17 x 7 inch wheels with black accents length (inches)

Photo credit: Mark Moskowitz MD

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