Fiat has reintroduced the 500 in a hybrid configuration, a move born from necessity rather than innovation. Twenty months after abruptly discontinuing the all-electric 500e in some markets, the company has adapted the platform to accommodate a gasoline engine, effectively reversing course to meet consumer demand for a more conventional powertrain.
The transition required substantial engineering changes, including new subframes to house a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual transmission in place of the electric motor and battery pack. The decision was pragmatic: a larger 1.2-liter engine simply wouldn’t fit within the vehicle’s tight engine bay, and developing a bespoke powertrain would have been prohibitively expensive.
Inside the Cabin
The interior retains much of the 500e’s design, with a revised dashboard to accommodate a gearlever. The infotainment system features a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, though the interface feels dense with icons. Digital instrumentation provides a clear view of the tachometer and speedometer, but the driving position may be problematic due to limited space in the footwell, particularly in right-hand-drive models.
Performance and Handling
The 64bhp engine delivers adequate performance for city driving, with its peak torque available at low revs. However, acceleration is sluggish on faster roads, taking 16.2 seconds to reach 62mph in the hatchback version. The gearbox is well-suited to relaxed driving, though the long throw may frustrate urgent downshifts.
Ride quality is decent for a compact car, absorbing bumps effectively, but there is noticeable body lean in corners. Steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Fuel Efficiency and Pricing
Official fuel economy is rated at 54.3mpg, though real-world testing yielded an average of 47.8mpg. This is a step backward compared to the previous hybrid model, which achieved 55mpg due to the new version’s added weight. The Fiat 500 Hybrid is expected to be one of the most affordable cars on the UK market, with a starting price around £19,000.
Conclusion
The 2025 Fiat 500 Hybrid is a pragmatic compromise—a return to combustion for a brand facing market pressure. While it lacks the charm of older models and underperforms against rivals like the Toyota Aygo X in fuel efficiency, it provides a functional, affordable option for buyers who prefer a traditional powertrain. Whether this will translate into strong sales remains uncertain, but Fiat is betting that nostalgia and style will be enough to sway consumers.
