The Fiat 500L is praised for its spacious interior and unique styling, offering a quirky alternative to traditional family cars. However, it has been criticised for its driving dynamics, which can feel less refined compared to rivals, and its engine options could be more powerful.
Read full reviewFiat 500L (2012 - 2022)
2012 – 2022· 5 owner Q&As
Very good
Could the Fiat 500L, a nostalgic nod to the past, be your perfect electric commute companion? With its quirky design and efficient tech, it's time to find out if this retro icon has truly revamped itself for the modern road!
At a glance
93
hp · Power
360
miles · Range / tank
13.5s
0–60 mph
£
Running costs
From £307/mo
Typical finance
Motoring.Today. verdict
Best for
- Distinctive retro design
- Spacious interior with practical features
- Electric variant offers environmental benefits
Consider alternatives if
- Limited rear visibility due to design
- Not as sporty as competing models
- Some may find the ride height less appealing
Finance snapshot
Typical monthly payment
£307/month
Based on PCP · 48 months · £1,800 deposit
Best suited for
- Company Car Drivers
- Petrol/Diesel Buyers
- High Mileage Drivers
- Families
Affordability
Very affordable
Great fit for most budgets.
Ratings breakdown
Theo's AI summary
In conclusion, the Fiat 500L (2012 - 2022) successfully marries nostalgic charm with modern functionality. It serves as a practical and spacious option for families, while the introduction of the electric model marks a significant shift towards sustainability. Whether navigating bustling city streets or cruising down country lanes, the 500L stands out as a versatile choice that offers a compelling mix of style, comfort, and economy. For those seeking a unique vehicle that embraces both its heritage and the future of motoring, the Fiat 500L is highly recommended.
Best match for
- Practical families
- Performance enthusiasts
- Budget-conscious buyers
Estimated ownership costs
Based on 10,000 miles per year
£179/month
£70/month
£16/month
£60/month
Estimated total
£325/month
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The Fiat 500L (2012 - 2022) offers an exceptionally versatile driving character. It confidently balances city manoeuvrability with the ability to handle longer journeys, embodying a compact yet spacious family car. Its tall stance and generous visibility contribute to a relaxed d
External voices
What the experts say
The design of the Fiat 500L stands out with its retro charm and practical layout. While it offers good visibility and a comfortable cabin, some critics argue that its aesthetics may not appeal to everyone, and the interior quality falls short of competitors' standards.
Read full reviewThe Fiat 500L's reliability rating is moderate, with some owners reporting issues with electronic components and build quality. While not the worst in its class, potential buyers are advised to consider the warranty and service history when looking at used models.
Ownership intelligence
The real cost of owning one
Financing options for the Fiat 500L are diverse, catering to various budgets and preferences. Whether one opts for leasing, personal loans, or hire purchase, there's a plan available to make this retro icon more accessible. Furthermore, the potential for lower running costs linked to the electric model makes it an attractive proposition for environmentally conscious buyers looking to manage their finances wisely.
When it comes to running costs, the Fiat 500L has proved to be an economical choice, particularly in its electric variant. Regular maintenance is straightforward and relatively affordable, with parts readily available. Moreover, the car's fuel efficiency, especially in petrol models, aids in keeping overall expenses low, making it a wise investment for budget-conscious drivers.
For the electric variant, charging infrastructure has improved significantly, making it easier to power up the Fiat 500L. Home charging options offer convenience, while public charging stations are increasingly accessible on main routes. This factor not only minimises downtime but also complements the growing trend towards electric vehicles in urban settings.
Heritage
Milestones & history
2012
Launch of the Fiat 500L, expanding the 500 family.
2017
Facelift introduced, enhancing aesthetics and technology.
2020
Introduction of the electric variant, aligning with sustainable trends.
2022
Final production year of the existing model range.
Read full launch story
The Fiat 500L was designed to blend the iconic aesthetic of the Fiat 500 with the practicality required by modern families. Its larger size and increased capacity cater to those needing more space without compromising on style. Since its launch, the Fiat 500L has evolved to include technological advancements, addressing consumer demand for safety, connectivity, and eco-friendliness, further solidifying its place in the market as a versatile hatchback.
Compare with alternatives
The Fiat 500L (2012 - 2022) stands out for its distinctive styling and spacious interior while facing stiff competition from rivals that offer superior driving dynamics and advanced features.
Ford Focus Hatchback
Widely regarded for its engaging driving dynamics and a strong reputation for technology.
- vs features
- The Focus offers a sportier driving experience and better handling compared to the Fiat 500L, with high-tech features such as an advanced infotainment system and driver assistance technologies. Cabin quality is also competitive with premium materials.
- vs price
- Typically, the Focus is slightly more expensive than a comparable Fiat 500L, especially in higher trim levels, due to its performance-oriented features.
Volkswagen Golf Hatchback
Known for its balance of practicality and performance, the Golf is a premium choice in the small hatchback category.
- vs features
- The Golf typically has superior build quality and a more upscale interior compared to the Fiat 500L. It also tends to offer a more refined ride and advanced technology options.
- vs price
- The Golf is usually more expensive than the Fiat 500L, but it often justifies this with better overall performance and features.
Honda Civic Hatchback
Renowned for reliability and practicality, the Civic is a strong competitor with a solid reputation.
- vs features
- The Civic outshines the Fiat 500L in terms of driving precision and interior space. It comes with a well-equipped infotainment system that rivals the Fiat’s offerings.
- vs price
- Generally, the Civic Hatchback is priced similarly to or just above the Fiat 500L, providing a good balance of features for the money.
Available now
Fiat 500L (2012 - 2022) for sale on Motoring.Today
Gallery
(15)Specs by trim
1.4 Pop Star 5dPetrol Manual · 2013–2017
- Power
- 93 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.4 s
- Top speed
- 111 mph
- Torque
- 127 Nm
- Economy
- 46 mpg
- Range
- 505 mi
- CO₂
- 143 g/km
- Insurance group
- 10
- Road tax
- £190 - £210
- New price
- £15,830
1.4 Lounge 5dPetrol Manual · 2013–2017
- Power
- 93 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.4 s
- Top speed
- 111 mph
- Torque
- 127 Nm
- Economy
- 46 mpg
- Range
- 505 mi
- CO₂
- 143 g/km
- Insurance group
- 10
- Road tax
- £190 - £210
- New price
- £17,230
1.4 Trekking 5dPetrol Manual · 2013–2017
- Power
- 93 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.8 s
- Top speed
- 103 mph
- Torque
- 127 Nm
- Economy
- 45 mpg
- Range
- 495 mi
- CO₂
- 144 g/km
- Insurance group
- 8
- Road tax
- £190 - £210
- New price
- £17,930
1.4 Pop 5dPetrol Manual · 2014–2017
- Power
- 93 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.4 s
- Top speed
- 111 mph
- Torque
- 127 Nm
- Economy
- 46 mpg
- Range
- 505 mi
- CO₂
- 143 g/km
- Insurance group
- 10
- Road tax
- £190 - £210
- New price
- £14,430
1.6 Multijet (120bhp) Pop Star 5dDiesel Manual · 2014–2017
- Power
- 118 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.4 s
- Top speed
- 117 mph
- Torque
- 320 Nm
- Economy
- 67 mpg
- Range
- 737 mi
- CO₂
- 112 g/km
- Insurance group
- 18
- Road tax
- £35 - £190
- New price
- £19,015
1.6 Multijet (120bhp) Lounge 5dDiesel Manual · 2014–2017
- Power
- 118 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.4 s
- Top speed
- 117 mph
- Torque
- 320 Nm
- Economy
- 67 mpg
- Range
- 737 mi
- CO₂
- 112 g/km
- Insurance group
- 18
- Road tax
- £35 - £190
- New price
- £20,415
+ 30 more trim variants
FAQs
- What makes the Fiat 500L a suitable urban driving option?
- The Fiat 500L features compact dimensions and excellent visibility, making it easy to navigate city streets and tight spaces. Its spacious interior accommodates families while retaining the retro design appeal.
- How does the Fiat 500L support sustainable motoring?
- The electric variant of the Fiat 500L promises low running costs and reduced emissions, making it an eco-friendly choice for drivers seeking a practical and stylish family car.
- What are the fuel efficiency benefits of the Fiat 500L?
- As an electric vehicle, the Fiat 500L offers significant savings on fuel, especially for urban trips, reducing the overall cost of ownership for eco-conscious drivers.
- Is the Fiat 500L spacious enough for families?
- Yes, the Fiat 500L boasts ample leg and headroom, making it a practical hatchback for families needing extra space while enjoying its distinctive retro styling.
- Does the Fiat 500L include modern technology?
- Yes, the Fiat 500L incorporates various modern technologies, including updated engines and features in its electric variant, ensuring a blend of functionality and contemporary convenience.














