First Drive: 2015 Fiat 500X

Taking an iconic model from bygone days and reinventing it, hopefully as a modern-day classic, is no easy feat. Take the Mini, for example. Here is a car that, during the ’60s and ’70s, achieved cult-like status in many parts of the world, thanks to its retro looks, reliability and overall cheeky presence.

When BMW took over the Rover Group in 1994 (which at the time built the Mini) it was forced to sell off various nonperforming entities, namely Range Rover and MG. In what turned out to be an inspired move, it kept the Mini, which has been hugely successful for the group. From the entry-level three-door hatch through to the John Cooper Works, today in South Africa there are an incredible nine models available on showroom floors — a success story if ever there was one.

To a large extent, Fiat is attempting the same with its iconic500. Again here is an absolute Italian classic from days gone by that continues to live on today through various models. In the lineup at present is the 500, 500c, 500L and 500L Trekking. And with its launch last Tuesday, we can now add the 500X to an expanded product lineup. I must confess the modern-day 500 is one of my favourite A-segment cars. The spirit of the “Topolino” still shines as bright as ever, courtesy of its quirky styling, innovative features and uniqueness in a segment where so many models and brands morph into blandness. It’s a car — very much like the Mini — that I never tire of driving and one that delivers in so many areas, just as I’m sure it did when it first launched. Which perhaps explains why I was so eager to travel to the Western Cape last week to see what the new 500X was all about. The 500X is, as Fiat marketing and product manager Shane Howarth described at the media briefing, “targeting new demographics and addressing challenges facing Fiat”.

And for the 500X there are challenges aplenty, namely in the competition it will be up against — solid campaigners in the Mini Countryman, Nissan Qashqai and the new kids on the block, the Opel Mokka. But there is nothing better to stir the soul than to look back at past successes, so constant comparisons and references to the early 500 were mentioned. Only problem is, although the 500X proudly carries the treasured numerical symbol, it is also far removed from both the original and the modern 500 so many of us love.

But I guess times change and styles evolve. This latest offering is described as “the new compact crossover in the 500 family”. Built at the company’s plant in Melfi, Italy, the 500X range will initially be launched in South Africa with the 1.4-litre Cross with a choice of six-speed manual transmission (R344 900) or six-speed automatic (R359 900). The 1.4-litre Cross Plus (R379 900) will be available next month and the 1.6-litre Pop Star (R310 900) in September. The final model in the lineup, the 1.4-litre Cross Plus Automatic (R394 900), is expected in the fourth quarter of the year.

A first impression on casting an eye over the 500X Cross is how big it is. Forget “cute” when it comes to the 500X because this vehicle is built on the same platform as the recently launched Jeep Renegade, so comes in at a rather lengthy 4.25m plus, providing a certain level of off-road capability. Think of the Nissan Juke as a comparison in size — and, to a degree, design similarities. The new 500X pays homage to the original 500 with a couple of style features. The distinctive badge is liberally sprinkled about, the cute round headlights remain and the chromed bonnet trim is still evident. More modern additions are roof rails and a choice of 17-inch or 18-inch alloys.

The interior is roomy, the quality of materials has a “Made in Italy” feel and overall the attention to detail impresses. There are seven combinations of fabric, leather and colours available and our test car had the optional black leather seats with brushed aluminium on the central tunnel and door panel. It’s an attractive combination that provides a modern feel. Boot space is also generous (245 litres) and more in line with the size and intended purpose of the vehicle.

The standard specification levels on the 500X Cross are high. Safety-wise you have six air bags, cruise control, daytime running lights, hill hold function, ABS and electronic stability control. When it comes to audio and telematics, you have controls on the steering wheel, multifunction display, USB, Bluetooth audio streaming, hands-free calling and voice control. For comfort and practicality, you have electric windows all round, climate control, electronic parking brake, rear parking sensors, start-stop and a handy refrigerated storage compartment on the dashboard. “Drive Mood Selector” is a standard feature accessible by a console mounted knob and there are three settings: Auto, for the best in terms of comfort, consumption and carbon emissions; Sport, for a more spirited drive; and All Weather, which maximizes traction on wet roads. Each acts on the behaviour of the engine, brakes, steering and transmission.

Optional packs include safety (blind spot assist, rear camera), comfort (keyless entry and keyless go, electric lumbar adjustment) and visibility (rain and dusk sensors, rear electric folding door mirrors). During our drive around the Western Cape, we never ventured off the excellent road network, but with the aforementioned platform, there are some off-road credentials. The pick of the gearboxes definitely lies with the six-speed manual. Whereas the auto box felt slightly sluggish, the manual adds some much-needed punch between changes. Ride comfort is acceptable, while all your buttons, knobs and switches are logically laid out.

When Fiat launched the 500L and last week the 500X, it was a case of the brand having to move with the times to broaden its appeal as trends change and consumer demands evolve. It’s a case of providing alternatives in certain segments and widening your potential pool of sales. So while the 500X has gone the crossover route and carries the treasured badge of the “Topolino”, the soul of the “little one” is sadly absent.

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-Bruce Fraser

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