Fiat has re-entered the auto market and they have big plans. The current Fiat 500, which has been on the market now since 2007, is approaching the one million sales mark, and in 2013 they will introduce the 500 L and it is worth taking a look at.
The Fiat 500 L is adorable, but it is considerably more than just adorable. This car, for its lack of size, has unbelievable head and leg room inside, and it will please anyone looking for extra cargo and passenger room. It also will have….get this….an espresso maker inside, which will run off of an electric cupholder powered off of the battery. How cool is that?
It’s not show alone, though, because this Fiat delivers a very quiet, smooth ride. Powered by a 1.3-liter engine, it will never be confused with a quick starter, going from 0-60 in 12.3 seconds. Hardly the stuff of dreams for Americans who like their power. However, power may not be the thing of the future, and the Fiat may well be a step ahead of the crowd in the American market. This care will never be confused with a Mercedes of BMW, but it is a nice change of pace.
As of right now, the Fiat 500 L will only come with a six-speed manual transmission, but Fiat claims to have an automatic in the planning stage for coming years, so rest assured, those who love automatics will be taken care of soon enough.
The steering is electric-based and is very light in handling; the struts can handle the roughest of roads, and the all-around vision in this car is superb.
Extras are few at this point, but the interior is comfortable and adequate, and the stereo system is more than adequate for a car that is only 163 inches long. It comes in three trims and it should find a comfortable niche in the American market soon enough.
What does it all mean? It means that Fiat has returned, and this return looks like it needs to be taken seriously. This car will not appeal to a wide market, but it will have enough appeal to grab hold of a niche and ride that horse for quite a distance.
Replacement parts will be at a premium in the first few years, so if you should see one of these at a salvage yard you would be well-advised to grab up a few replacement parts for the future.
The 2013 Fiat 500 L….worth a look….worth a drive….worth a purchase!