Fiat 600e: this is the new Italian electric crossover fare

Fiat 600e is a new 100% electric crossover from an Italian company. It inherits the style from the latest electric Fiat 500, combining dimensions almost identical to those of the enhanced 500X, which however does not change completely. Good signature and great technological speed on board, with enough space for four passengers. Amazing on the road, and great handling compatible with cities, convincing with good comfort and classic electric panache. Price lists are starting from 35,950 euros excluding incentives.

Design and measurements

Some thought it would replace the Fiat 500X and instead it sits a little lower in the range. At least initially, the Fiat 600 does not intend to replace the aforementioned crossover, offering a different, more complex vehicle (Height of 4.15 m versus the 500X’s 4.26 m). It is also less than 7 cm, which gives it a smooth and balanced line, although the height from the ground has not changed.

Il design it is more modern and refined, immediately recalling the one proposed recently by the Fiat 500e, which hopes to be an extension of the “family” model. The LED headlights are integrated into the circular LED light signature, which also includes a small part of the bodywork. Below them, circular LED daytime running lights. The side is characterized by the presence of a black rim that runs along the lower part of the bodywork (complete with the “600” logo), visually raising the car from the ground. At the rear, the descending line almost gives the look of the coupé, providing LED lights that, also in this case, are very similar to those already seen on the Fiat 500e. At the bottom of the black plastic bumper (important for “touch-ups” in the city), which 600 marks Italian flag printed. There is also a separate minor spoiler. The RED version offers steel wheels with 16″ plastic covers, while in the La Prima version there are alloy wheels up to 18″ in two tones.

Interior and technology

L’passenger compartment It is guided by the one already seen with the 500e, but it improves the part of the equipment and the finish, with more space in every direction. The dual-function steering wheel is large but easy to use in the city, with clear and easy-to-use buttons. Through this you can see clearly 7″ digital devices, which you can check all the important data while driving. In the middle of the dashboard with its usual horizontal development, the display of the multimedia system emerges Combine 5 by 10,25″, with a 16:9 format. It doesn’t take up much visual space, but in terms of usability it would probably be better to have a few more centimeters in height. It’s very clear and easy to use, with a quick but not always fast touch response. It helps though Android Auto ed Apple Carplay even without cable and can update remotely. Another time rear camera it takes a long time to activate after inputting back, while the image quality can be improved. The piano keys below the display are very practical, for controlling the automatic climate and recalling other functions of the multimedia system.

Among the good things about the passenger room isambient light eight colors or electrically adjustable seats, heated and also with massage function. Also interesting is the texture with “FIAT” lettering on the back and the light leather seats, fitted to this trim level. In the middle of the tunnel, however, there is a large section (similar to the one seen already to protect the screen of an iPad or laptop) which covers a large storage area, complete with a wireless charging plate for smartphones. On it there are four buttons to select gears, while in the middle there is an electronic brake and a button to select driving modes, and a large part of the object. It is a shame that the door panel is finished – top and bottom – with particularly hard plastic, while those at the back do not have a pocket to hold drinks or things. The rear passenger space is adequate for the segment and, as in other models, there are no air vents, while the USB port is only visible on the La Prima trim level. The trunk is average, and 360 liters and high seats or 1,231 by folding the second row (however, there is no possibility to reduce only the middle section).

Road test

Driving the new Fiat 600e, it reinterprets the now integrated and appreciated architecture from the world of Stellantis. In fact, it takes advantage of the electric platform E-CMP (also shared by the Jeep Avenger, Peugeot 2008, Opel Mokka and the new Alfa Romeo Milano), they have already used a new powertrain and 54 kWh lithium ion batterywhich enables the permanent magnet synchronous motor to come out 156 CV at 260 Nm of pairs, placed in front. There is a big step forward compared to the 500X, thanks to better suspension, and the ability to better reduce road vibrations. Even with 18 wheels, it does not present any significant issues due to the special tuning of the touring, without sports goals. The steering is very light but responsive, perfect for cityin which the 600e curls up and gets its own natural habitat. The sprint is good, as evidenced by the data of 0-100 km / h (9 seconds), and a maximum speed of 150 km / h. In Normal mode it can produce up to 109 HP, while it only gives maximum power in Sport mode.

A slightly raised driver’s seat and large glass surfaces allow for a better view of the surrounding area, but parking sensors and a rear camera are essential to make the most of every space in the city. It is a shame, however, that there is no mode of driving with one pedal or especially strong regenerative braking, which would reduce the use and make it easier in urban conditions.

Freedom and utility

We tested the Fiat 600e in an average outside temperature of around 10 degrees, which probably penalized it in part from a utility point of view. In fact, we recorded an average value of 17,1 kWh/100 km, not far from the 15.2 announced by the parent company. However, this introduces theoretical independence for the value of 292 km, compared to the 406 km declared in the WLTP cycle. Considering the low weight (around 1,590 kg in running order) we would expect better handling than approx. 15.5 kWh/100 km recorded in the urban cycle (Theoretical freedom of 329 km). Moving on the road – the terrain is not very suitable for this type of electric car – the consumption increases significantly, with a real range that is not far from 220 km.

Reload

The available platform allows you to charge the 54 kWh battery up to a maximum of 11 kW in changing current, so from public columns or wall boxes. In this way, a full charge is possible in about 4 and a half hours. Currently live, the platform accepts up to 100 kW which allows it to go from 10 to 80% in about half an hour. Since this is not a car particularly suitable for long journeys, the charging power is in line with the philosophy of the model.

Price and fittings

The new Fiat 600e model starts from one based on 35,950 euros for the RED trim level, which includes 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, automatic climate control, keyless entry, leather steering wheel, 7″ digital instruments, 10.25″ Uconnect screen and more . At the top of the range is the version The first one (tested by us), from 40,950 eurosalways excluding incentives, which add 18-wheels, exterior specs, leather seats with blue inserts, cruise control, a rearview camera, rotation sensors, a rear USB socket and wireless charging.

A price that is not very low, considering the size and type of car, but it is unavoidable these days to sell a battery-powered car, built and manufactured in Europe. Between Fiat discounts and environmental incentives, the list price can be reduced by up to 40%, assuming a maximum of 13.

Conditional bonus of 500 euros if canceled (under certain conditions) by Fiat offers.