If Italian manufacturers are specialists in something, especially FIAT, is in manufacturing urban and practical cars capable of meeting many needs. He FIAT 600 It is the latest model to join that long history, although now converted into an SUV that leaves behind one of the most charismatic and beloved stories in the motorsports industry. Its official presentation takes place at the end of summer 2023, being considered a 2024 model.
The story of the FIAT 600 is one of success and versatility. Considered by many to be one of the most special cars in history, its beginnings date back to the 50s. Originally designed by Dante Giacosta, the original 600 was a huge success not only in Italy, also internationally where it was sold under the umbrella of other manufacturers such as SEAT. In Spain it is considered the car that mobilized the masses in the 60s. Today, the original models retain great value due to this particularity.
Technical characteristics of the FIAT 600
Gone is that time when small cars were the only car within a family unit. Nowadays, space needs, as well as regulations regarding safety and security, have forced the size of vehicles to expand. Under the body of the new 600 hides the Stellantis Group's E-CMP2 platform. A structure used by other conglomerate models such as Peugeot 2008 or Opel Mokka, among others.
Due to its measurements, the FIAT 600 fits perfectly into the B-SUV category. Vehicles with a clear urban focus, but that also show enough aptitude to leave the city without major problems. Externally it reaches 4,17 meters long, 1,78 meters wide (without mirrors) and 1,52 meters high. To these proportions we must add a wheelbase of 2,56 meters. A standard battle within its segment.
Thanks to it, it is capable of offering adequate interior space for a maximum of five passengers. Three of them are located in a second row with limited habitability. The space for the rear seats is adequate, but not extraordinary, especially if we talk about occupants over 1,85 meters tall. Officially, the 600 announces a minimum trunk volume of 385 liters, a measure that is reduced to 360 liters in the case of 100% electric units.
FIAT 600 mechanical range and gearboxes
As such, the new 600 replaces the already discontinued FIAT 500X, leaving it as the only SUV inside the house. It is a new generation model capable of offering mechanical solutions of all kinds with a clear predisposition to electrification. The offer includes, for now, hybrid and fully electric versions able to enjoy the ECO and ZERO labels. Highly sought-after badges for the city given the current restrictions and increasingly common low-emission zones.
In a first degree of electrification and as a power access model to the range we find the 600 hybrid. This is a non-plug-in hybrid that consists of a small 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine that develops 100 horsepower. It is associated with a small electrical block and a low-capacity battery. Management is derived from a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends all power to the front axle.
The most electrified alternative is called FIAT 600e. It uses a single electric motor installed on the front axle that offers 156 horsepower. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery with 50,8 kWh net capacity that allows it to offer a Approved autonomy in the WLTP cycle of 409 kilometers. For recharging, high-power systems are chosen. Up to 100 kW in direct current and up to 11 kW in alternating current.
FIAT 600 equipment
When designing the interior of the new 600, the Italian designers prioritized functionality over any other argument. From the inside we are welcomed by a pleasant space with a youthful touch. Personalization is a factor to highlight, although not so much the qualities used. Hard plastics are overused, something that reduces the overall perceived quality sensation..
When creating the range of finishes, FIAT offers Red and La Prima terminations for electric units, the first to hit the market at the end of 2023. The main differences between them lie in the base equipment, although aesthetic modifications can also be seen both outside and inside. In both finishes it is possible to customize some details to the particular taste of each client.
Speaking of equipment, The FIAT 600 offers all the technologies that we consider essential today, even for a B segment model. The long list of systems includes elements such as: LED headlights, keyless entry and start, digital instrumentation, multimedia system with a touch panel of up to 10 inches, connectivity for mobile phones, navigation, climate control and a complete safety package with driving assistants.
The FIAT 600 in video
FIAT 600 rivals
After the compact segment, The B-SUV market is the second most important in Europe. All brands fight with at least one model in the category, especially if we focus on the general segment in which the 600 is located. This means that it has a long list of rivals before it such as: DS 3, jeep avenger, MG ZS, KIA Sonic, SEAT Arona y Renault Captur, among others. The Italian stands out for its casual presence and its varied electrified mechanical offering.
Highlight
- Design
- Behavior
- Equipment
To improve
- Basic thermal versions
- Electric units price
- habitability
Price of the FIAT 600
FIAT has always positioned itself as a generalist brand with a very tight focus on value for money. Despite this, the significant weight of electrification forces rates to be raised above average. For now, only the figures for the electrical units have been published. The FIAT 600 has a starting price for Spain of 35.950 euros, without offers or promotions. This amount is associated with a 600e Red. The most expensive, for now, is the 600e La Prima, whose basic rate, including discounts, rises to 39.337 euros.
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