Motoring.Today
Back to reviews
3.6/5· Fiat

Fiat 500 Hatchback (2008 - 2024)

2008 – 2024· 5 owner Q&As

Petrol3 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
7.2/10

Very good

Did you hear? The Fiat 500 is back and packing electric power! This retro icon is ready to zippity-doo-dah its way back onto the streets, but how does it fare as a wallet-friendly commuter? Buckle up as we rev through the details!

At a glance

68

hp · Power

362

miles · Range / tank

12.5s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £204/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Iconic design with a modern electric twist
  • Low running costs and eco-friendly credentials
  • Excellent urban manoeuvrability and stability

Consider alternatives if

  • Limited rear seat space
  • Reduced boot capacity compared to competitors
  • Performance may not satisfy enthusiast drivers on longer journeys

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£204/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £1,200 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 costs40/10
behind the wheel38/10
comfort30/10
equipment35/10
green credentials35/10
handling40/10
reliability42/10
safety32/10

Theo's AI summary

Overall, the Fiat 500 Hatchback is a compelling choice for anyone seeking a stylish, city-friendly electric vehicle with a nod to its retro heritage. Its unique design, combined with eco-friendly technology and low running costs, makes it an ideal option for urban dwellers and environmentally conscious buyers alike. The blend of modern conveniences and classic charm finds its mark, offering an outstanding driving experience that stands out in today's electric vehicle market. Highly recommended for those desiring a compact vehicle without sacrificing character.

Best match for

  • Budget-conscious buyers
  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Practical families

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£125/month

Insurance

£61/month

Road Tax

£1683/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£1929/month

Could this fit your budget?

Check your eligibility in under 60 seconds with no impact on your credit score.

  • Real monthly payments
  • Personalised to you
  • No obligation

Safe, secure and confidential

A standout feature of the Fiat 500 Hatchback is its impressive handling capabilities. With a well-tuned chassis and precise steering, the car exhibits excellent agility around corners, enabling drivers to navigate tight city streets with confidence. The lightweight construction a

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Fiat 500 Hatchback is celebrated for its retro charm and stylish design, offering a fun driving experience, particularly around town. However, criticisms arise regarding rear passenger space and boot capacity, making it less practical for families. The car excels in city driving but may not be the best choice for long journeys.

Read full review
Autocar

The design of the Fiat 500 Hatchback is a standout feature, blending classic aesthetics with modern touches. It's highly regarded for its distinctive look and customisation options, though some find elements a bit too retro. Overall, the design contributes significantly to its appeal, attracting buyers who appreciate style.

Read full review
WhatCar

Reliability for the Fiat 500 Hatchback is rated as average, with some owners experiencing electrical issues and other minor faults. Nevertheless, the car generally holds up well if properly maintained, and service costs are competitive. Buyers should be aware of potential issues as they consider a used model.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Fiat 500 Hatchback cater to a variety of budgets, with leasing, personal loans, and special electric vehicle finance deals available. These flexible plans are designed to make the acquisition of this retro icon approachable for a broader audience, reflecting Fiat's commitment to making sustainable transportation accessible.

Day-to-day running costs

Running costs for the Fiat 500 Hatchback are encouragingly low, particularly due to the shift to an electric powertrain. Maintenance is also simplified, given that electric vehicles usually require less frequent servicing compared to their petrol counterparts. Additionally, potential owners benefit from various government incentives aimed at promoting electric vehicle adoption, further mitigating overheads.

Charging & fuel

Charging options for the Fiat 500 Hatchback include home charging solutions, public charging stations, and rapid chargers, offering a versatile approach to powering your electric vehicle. The range ensures you can manage daily commutes conveniently, making it suitable for both short runs and longer excursions when planned carefully.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2008

    Launch of the original Fiat 500 Hatchback

  2. 2020

    Introduction of the electric version of the Fiat 500

  3. 2023

    Refinement of the electric variant, enhancing technology and features

  4. 2024

    Latest model introduces improved battery technology for extended range

Read full launch story

The Fiat 500 Hatchback was originally designed to be an affordable, compact city car that offered style and efficiency. Its enduring popularity stemmed from its unique design and practical size, making it a staple in urban environments. Since its inception in 2008, the Fiat 500 has evolved into a symbol of retro charm reimagined for the modern era. The transition to electric power in 2020 marks a pivotal moment in its history, embracing environmental responsibility without relinquishing its iconic design.

Compare with alternatives

Overall, the Fiat 500 Hatchback (2008 - 2024) competes well against premium rivals by offering a unique blend of style and city-friendly dimensions, though it may fall short in practical space and advanced features.

Volkswagen Polo Hatchback

Reference only

The Polo is positioned as a premium supermini offering a blend of style, practicality, and performance.

vs features
The Polo generally offers a more spacious cabin, enhanced driving dynamics, and superior technology features compared to the Fiat 500. It has a more refined interior and greater customization options.
vs price
The Polo typically sits at a slightly higher price point than the Fiat 500, reflecting its more premium positioning and additional features.
No Motoring.Today review

Ford Fiesta Hatchback

Reference only

Known for its fun-to-drive characteristics, the Fiesta targets those seeking an engaging driving experience in a compact format.

vs features
The Fiesta stands out for its outstanding handling and driving feel. While it may lack the Fiat's quirky style, its tech offerings and interior quality are on par or better in many trims.
vs price
Generally, the Fiesta is priced competitively with the Fiat 500, often coming in slightly less expensive depending on the trim and options chosen.
No Motoring.Today review

Peugeot 208 Hatchback

Reference only

The 208 is aimed at stylish, tech-savvy buyers who value design and comfort.

vs features
The 208 offers a modern cabin with superior ergonomics and advanced tech features compared to the Fiat 500. Its driving comfort and fuel efficiency are commendable, though not as engaging to drive.
vs price
The pricing of the 208 is often comparable to the Fiat 500, generally falling within the same price range for base models, with some trim levels being slightly higher.
No Motoring.Today review

Available now

Fiat 500 Hatchback (2008 - 2024) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

0.9 TwinAir Pop Star (09/15-) 3dPetrol 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
11
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£13,640
0.9 TwinAir Pop Star (09/15-) 3d 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
11
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£14,490
1.2 Pop Star (09/15-) 3dPetrol Manual · 2015–2018
Power
68 bhp
0–60 mph
12.5 s
Top speed
99 mph
Torque
102 Nm
Economy
57 mpg
Range
438 mi
CO₂
115 g/km
Insurance group
8
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£12,771
1.2 Pop Star (09/15-) 3d DualogicPetrol Automatic · 2015–2018
Power
68 bhp
0–60 mph
12.5 s
Top speed
99 mph
Torque
102 Nm
Economy
54 mpg
Range
415 mi
CO₂
120 g/km
Insurance group
8
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£13,671
1.2 Pop Star ECO 3dPetrol Manual · 2015–2017
Power
68 bhp
0–60 mph
12.5 s
Top speed
99 mph
Torque
102 Nm
Economy
65 mpg
Range
500 mi
CO₂
99 g/km
Insurance group
8
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£12,325
1.3 Multijet Pop Star 3dDiesel Manual · 2015–2017
Power
93 bhp
0–60 mph
10.4 s
Top speed
112 mph
Torque
200 Nm
Economy
83 mpg
Range
639 mi
CO₂
89 g/km
Insurance group
13
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£14,890

+ 63 more trim variants

FAQs

What are the key features of the Fiat 500 Hatchback?
The Fiat 500 Hatchback boasts a stylish retro design, affordable running costs, compact size for easy parking, and impressive safety ratings. Its electric variant offers instant torque and eco-friendly driving, perfect for urban environments.
How does the Fiat 500 handle in city driving?
The Fiat 500 excels in city driving thanks to its petite dimensions, responsive electric motor, and tight turning circle, making it easy to navigate tight spaces and traffic.
What is the starting price of the electric Fiat 500?
The electric Fiat 500 starts at £13,235, making it an accessible choice for budget-conscious commuters looking for a stylish and eco-friendly vehicle.
How long does it take to charge the Fiat 500?
Charging times for the Fiat 500 vary, but using a 40kW DC charger can top up the battery quickly. Home charging overnight ensures you're ready to go each morning.
What are the pros and cons of the electric Fiat 500?
Pros include stylish design, low maintenance costs, and zippy urban driving. Cons include limited rear space, performance on the motorway, and potential range anxiety for longer trips.

Fiat 500 Hatchback (2008 - 2024) (2008–2024)

From £204/month