The Fiat 500L Review: Is It as Bad as They Say?
The Fiat 500L. Just the mention of its name can elicit a range of reactions, from a nostalgic nod to the original 500 to a grimace of disapproval. Often unfairly maligned, the 500L has developed a reputation, and in this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the truth: is it truly as terrible as some critics claim? We’ll dissect its strengths, weaknesses, and overall appeal to help you decide if this quirky Italian MPV deserves a second look.
Design and Aesthetics: Love it or Leave it?
The Fiat 500L is undoubtedly a polarizing vehicle. Its design is a bold departure from the more streamlined aesthetic of modern cars, taking cues from the iconic Fiat 500 but scaling it up significantly. This leads to a boxy, almost retro look.
Here’s a breakdown of its design elements:
- Exterior: The 500L boasts a high roofline and large windows, offering excellent visibility. Available in a variety of vibrant colors, it aims for a playful and cheerful personality. The “Cross” and “Trekking” versions add rugged styling elements like body cladding and increased ride height.
- Interior: The interior echoes the exterior’s quirky charm. The dashboard features a central instrument panel and a floating infotainment screen. Color-coded elements and interesting textures add to the unique atmosphere. However, the abundant use of hard plastics is a common criticism.
Ultimately, the 500L’s design is a matter of personal preference. If you appreciate a vehicle that stands out from the crowd and prioritizes practicality over sleekness, the 500L might be right up your alley.
Performance and Driving Experience: What’s Under the Hood?
The Fiat 500L offers a range of engine options, varying by market and year. Common engines include:
- 1.4L Petrol: A naturally aspirated engine offering adequate performance for city driving, but can feel underpowered on the open road, especially when fully loaded.
- 0.9L TwinAir Turbo Petrol: A more spirited engine, offering better acceleration and fuel efficiency than the 1.4L. However, its unique two-cylinder configuration can produce a distinctive sound and vibration.
- 1.3L MultiJet Diesel: A fuel-efficient diesel option, providing good torque and decent economy.
- Transmission: Available with manual and automatic transmissions. The automatic options have been known to be clunky in some reviews.
The driving experience is generally described as competent rather than exhilarating. The 500L prioritizes comfort and practicality over sporty handling. Its suspension is tuned for comfort, making it suitable for everyday driving and family duties.
Practicality and Space: A Family-Friendly MPV?
One of the 500L’s biggest selling points is its practicality. It offers a surprisingly spacious interior, especially considering its relatively compact exterior dimensions.
Here’s a look at its key practical features:
- Generous Headroom and Legroom: The high roofline allows for ample headroom in both the front and rear seats. The rear seats offer decent legroom, making it suitable for adults and children.
- Flexible Seating: The rear seats can slide and recline, further enhancing passenger comfort.
- Cargo Space: The 500L boasts a respectable cargo capacity, with a usable trunk space. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo room.
- Visibility: The large windows and elevated driving position provide excellent visibility, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
The 500L excels as a practical family car, offering a spacious and versatile interior that can accommodate passengers and cargo with ease.
Reliability and Common Issues: What to Watch Out For
The Fiat 500L’s reliability has been a point of contention. While some owners have reported trouble-free ownership experiences, others have encountered issues. Common complaints include:
- Electrical Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, sensors, and other electrical components.
- Transmission Concerns: The automatic transmissions in some models have been criticized for their sluggish performance and occasional reliability problems.
- Build Quality: The use of hard plastics in the interior can make the cabin feel less premium than some competitors.
- Engine Issues: Some engines have experienced problems, such as oil leaks and premature wear.
It’s crucial to research the specific model year and engine before purchasing a used 500L. Consider getting a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic to identify any potential issues.
The Verdict: Is the Fiat 500L Worth It?
The Fiat 500L is a car with a distinct personality. It’s not for everyone, but it offers a compelling package for those who prioritize practicality, space, and a touch of Italian flair.
Here’s a summary:
- Pros: Spacious interior, good visibility, fuel-efficient engine options, unique design, affordable price (especially used).
- Cons: Polarizing design, some reliability concerns, interior materials could be better, performance can be sluggish with certain engines.
Ultimately, whether the Fiat 500L is “bad” depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value practicality, space, and affordability, and you’re willing to overlook some of its shortcomings, the 500L could be a worthwhile option. However, it’s essential to research the model carefully, consider its reliability record, and compare it with other vehicles in its class before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Is the Fiat 500L a reliable car?
Reliability is a mixed bag. Some owners have reported positive experiences, while others have faced issues. Researching the specific model year and engine, along with a pre-purchase inspection, is highly recommended.
2. Is the Fiat 500L good for families?
Yes, the 500L is a good option for families. It offers a spacious interior, ample headroom and legroom, and a practical cargo area.
3. What are the main competitors of the Fiat 500L?
Key competitors include the Citroën C3 Picasso, Ford B-Max, and Kia Soul.
4. Is the automatic transmission in the Fiat 500L any good?
The automatic transmission can be clunky in some models. Consider a test drive and read owner reviews to assess its performance.
5. What is the fuel economy of the Fiat 500L?
Fuel economy varies depending on the engine. The diesel and TwinAir petrol engines generally offer good fuel efficiency. Check the official figures for the specific model you’re considering.
