The Fiat 500L is now available in South Africa. Prices start at R232 990.
Measuring in at 4,15 metres in length, 1,66 metres high and 1,78 metres wide, the customisable 500L is 70 mm longer than a Fiat Punto. According to Fiat, the 500L’s passenger compartment will easily accommodate five two-metre-tall occupants and their luggage thanks to a segment-leading 3,17 cubic-metre passenger compartment and a 400 dm3 boot.
The cabin can be configured in 1 500 combinations thanks to rear seats that can be folded individually, or completely flat, and feature a sliding mechanism to free up additional luggage/legroom. The load bay can also be separated into three tiers via a Magic Space divider to keep clean/dirty load items apart. The passenger seat has a folding backrest that transforms into a table for other passengers to make use of. According to Fiat, there are no fewer than 22 storage compartments.
Among the 500L’s other highlights are a UConnect multimedia system with iPod/USB/smartphone connectivity, an eco-driving module that gives driver’s fuel-saving operation hints and a five-inch touchscreen interface, a 1,5-metre panoramic glass roof and an optional audio system developed by Dr Dre’s Beats Audio company.
Standard safety features include six airbags, ESC with hill hold, ABD with EBD and dynamic steering torque that, according to Fiat, “improves driving safety and handling performance”.
There are three models and two engines on offer. The 70 kW 1,4-litre engine is available in Easy and Lounge spec. This unit has 127 N.m and is mated with a six-speed manual transmission. There is also a 1,6-litre diesel unit (Lounge spec only). It delivers 77 kW and 320 N.m of torque. Fiat claims a fuel consumption of 6,2 litres/100 km for the petrol and 4,5 litres/100 km for the diesel 500 L.
Prices:
500L 1,4 Easy: R232 990
500L 1,4 Lounge: R247 990
500L 1,6 MultiJet Lounge: R278 990
Read a driving impression of the diesel version here.
