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3.6/5· Fiat

Fiat 500 C (2009 - 2024)

2009 – 2024· 5 owner Q&As

Petrol2 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
7.2/10

Very good

Could the Fiat 500 C be the perfect retro icon for the budget-conscious commuter? With its stylish design and electric rebirth, this classic car is making waves once again. But does it have the practicality and performance you need for daily driving?

At a glance

68

hp · Power

362

miles · Range / tank

12.5s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £248/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Iconic retro design
  • Agile and easy to drive in urban areas
  • Low running costs due to electric powertrain
  • Versatile convertible roof

Consider alternatives if

  • Limited rear passenger space
  • Luggage capacity on the lower side
  • May feel less powerful on the motorway

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£248/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £1,500 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Very affordable

Great fit for most budgets.

Ratings breakdown

performance35/10
practicality30/10
running costs35/10
behind the wheel40/10
comfort35/10
equipment35/10
green credentials30/10
handling40/10
reliability40/10
safety35/10

Theo's AI summary

The Fiat 500 C (2009 - 2024) is an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish and practical electric vehicle that embraces its retro heritage. Its blend of modern technology and classic design makes it stand out in a crowded market. Eco-friendly drivers will appreciate the low running costs and urban agility, while the charm of the original Fiat 500 ensures this model remains appealing. It is a fantastic option for both city dwellers and those who treasure the fusion of nostalgia and innovation.

Best match for

  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Budget-conscious buyers
  • Practical families

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£125/month

Insurance

£70/month

Road Tax

£1683/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£1938/month

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Handling in the Fiat 500 C is both nimble and responsive, making it an ideal choice for those who value manoeuvrability in busy urban settings. The lightweight design complements its suspension system, which strikes a perfect balance between sportiness and comfort. This retro ico

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Fiat 500 C is praised for its chic design, compactness and city-friendly driving dynamics. Owners appreciate its stylish interior and fuel efficiency. However, criticisms include limited rear passenger space and a small boot, making it less practical for families.

Read full review
Autocar

Expert reviews highlight the Fiat 500 C's retro charm and quirky styling. Its fun driving experience is well-acknowledged, but concerns over build quality and a tight driving position are noted. The soft-top version adds a sense of freedom, appealing to those seeking a unique drive.

Read full review
WhatCar

The Fiat 500 C is generally reliable, with good owner satisfaction regarding its mechanical components. However, some reports mention electrical gremlins and issues with infotainment. Overall, it holds decent reliability ratings within its segment.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Fiat 500 C are abundant, with various leasing and purchase plans tailored to suit different budgets. Additionally, government schemes promoting electric vehicle ownership can further lessen the financial burden, allowing customers to enjoy the blend of retro style and modern efficiency.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the Fiat 500 C (2009 - 2024) are noticeably reduced thanks to its electric drivetrain. With fewer moving parts compared to traditional combustion engines, maintenance and servicing tend to be less frequent and less expensive. Additionally, EV owners can benefit from various tax incentives and lower charges for congestion or emissions, enhancing the overall affordability of ownership.

Charging & fuel

Charging the Fiat 500 C is convenient, with a variety of home charging solutions available to ensure quick overnight charges. Public charging stations are proliferating, making it easier to top up on the go. Compared to petrol or diesel counterparts, the cost per mile for electricity tends to be lower, contributing to significant savings over time.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2009

    Launch of the Fiat 500 C

  2. 2020

    Introduction of electric variant

  3. 2024

    Expected updates and technology enhancements

Read full launch story

The Fiat 500 C was designed to be a stylish and compact vehicle, perfect for urban environments while embodying the timeless appeal of the iconic Fiat 500. Since its launch, the Fiat 500 C has evolved from a classic city car into a modern electric vehicle, successfully merging nostalgic design with the latest automotive technology.

Compare with alternatives

The Fiat 500 C (2009 - 2024) stands out in the small hatchback segment for its unique design and personality but faces tough competition from more spacious and higher-performance rivals.

Mini Mini Hatchback

Reference only

Premium small hatchback with a sporty image and strong brand heritage.

vs features
The Mini offers a more engaging driving experience and better performance than the Fiat 500, with higher-quality materials and advanced technology. However, it may not have as much interior space or versatility for passengers.
vs price
Typically more expensive than the Fiat 500, especially when options are added, making it a choice for buyers seeking a premium feel.
No Motoring.Today review

Volkswagen Up!

Reference only

Affordable city car aimed at urban drivers looking for efficiency and practicality.

vs features
The VW Up! delivers a more spacious cabin and practical features than the Fiat 500, with reasonable tech options. While it may lack the Italian charm, it offers a straightforward and user-friendly driving experience.
vs price
Generally less expensive than the Fiat 500, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
No Motoring.Today review

Ford Fiesta

Reference only

Well-rounded supermini known for its driving dynamics and versatility.

vs features
The Ford Fiesta is often regarded as one of the sportiest driving cars in this segment, boasting a more spacious and tech-savvy interior compared to the Fiat 500. Its infotainment system is generally more advanced.
vs price
Typically, the Fiesta is similarly priced to the Fiat 500, depending on trim levels and options chosen.
No Motoring.Today review

Available now

Fiat 500 C (2009 - 2024) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

1.2 Pop (09/15-) 2dPetrol Manual · 2015–2019
Power
68 bhp
0–60 mph
12.5 s
Top speed
101 mph
Torque
102 Nm
Economy
47.1 - 49.6 mpg
Range
362 mi
CO₂
116 g/km
Insurance group
10
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£14,895
1.2 Pop (09/15-) 2d DualogicPetrol Automatic · 2015–2020
Power
68 bhp
0–60 mph
12.5 s
Top speed
101 mph
Torque
102 Nm
Economy
45.6 mpg
Range
351 mi
CO₂
140 g/km
Insurance group
10
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£16,085
0.9 TwinAir Pop Star (09/15-) 2dPetrol Manual · 2015–2017
Power
83 bhp
0–60 mph
10.6 s
Top speed
107 mph
Torque
145 Nm
Economy
74 mpg
Range
569 mi
CO₂
90 g/km
Insurance group
14
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£16,290
0.9 TwinAir Pop Star (09/15-) 2d DualogicPetrol Automatic · 2015–2017
Power
83 bhp
0–60 mph
10.6 s
Top speed
107 mph
Torque
145 Nm
Economy
74 mpg
Range
569 mi
CO₂
88 g/km
Insurance group
14
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£17,140
1.2 Pop Star (09/15-) 2dPetrol Manual · 2015–2018
Power
68 bhp
0–60 mph
12.5 s
Top speed
99 mph
Torque
102 Nm
Economy
56 mpg
Range
431 mi
CO₂
116 g/km
Insurance group
11
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£15,370
1.2 Pop Star (09/15-) 2d DualogicPetrol Automatic · 2015–2018
Power
68 bhp
0–60 mph
12.5 s
Top speed
99 mph
Torque
102 Nm
Economy
52 mpg
Range
400 mi
CO₂
125 g/km
Insurance group
11
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£16,270

+ 71 more trim variants

FAQs

What makes the Fiat 500 C a retro icon?
The Fiat 500 C combines classic design elements with modern technology, evoking nostalgia while appealing to budget-conscious urbanites seeking style and eco-friendliness.
How economical is the Fiat 500 C as an electric vehicle?
As an electric vehicle, the Fiat 500 C boasts remarkably low running costs, making it a smart choice for daily commuting and urban driving.
Is the Fiat 500 C practical for everyday use?
While the Fiat 500 C excels in style and urban agility, its small boot space and limited rear seat room may hinder practicality for some drivers.
What are the charging options for the Fiat 500 C?
The Fiat 500 C can be easily charged at home or at public charging stations, providing a range of 150-200 miles on a full charge.
Can I find affordable finance options for the Fiat 500 C?
Yes, with starting prices from £12,500, finance deals can be as low as £215 per month with a £2,500 deposit, making it accessible for many drivers.

Fiat 500 C (2009 - 2024) (2009–2024)

From £248/month