The New Fiat 500L
What is it? When it was launched 5 years ago the Fiat 500 put the fun back into motoring and became Fiat’s best selling model. Building on this success Fiat have produced a bigger brother for the 500 aptly named the 500L (L for large) that aims to combine the 500 style with functionality.
First impression of the new Fiat 500L The 500L manages to capture the distinctive Italian style of the iconic 500 but reinterprets the look to accommodate the bigger proportions. While not as cute as its smaller sibling it is still a very convincing member of the family.
What about the interior? Inside you are immediately charmed by the modern and bright interior and seduced by the smell of coffee! The 500L is the first production car in the world available with a compact espresso coffee machine as an accessory, perfect for those early starts.
The driving position is excellent, space and storage is generous throughout and the chunky dials and controls make everything easy to access. The back seats slide forward and back which adds to the flexibility and boot space is an impressive 400 litres.
And on the road?
Fiat 500L and the city: The 500L’s light steering means it’s easy to manoeuvre and drive. While never sporty it is light and agile and makes easy work of the windy streets of Turin.
Fiat 500L and the open road: Venture out of the city and the 500L remains refined at speed. It is quiet, composed and cruises effortlessly.
How Much? Irish prices are not going to be available until the end of the year but they are likely to be a little above €20,000.
How Safe? The Fiat 500L has not yet been rated for safety by the EuroNcap but there is no reason to believe it won’t achieve the maximum five stars.
3 words to describe the Fiat 500L; Stylish, Italian, Practical
9th July, 2012
