Fiat has released official images and information regarding its 500L mini people-carrier – it’s practical, but the Dr. Dre-developed audio system and on-board espresso machine are far more interesting!
The 500L serves up what Fiat describes as “MPV passenger space, the feel of a small SUV on the road [no small coincidence, as the all-wheel drive 500X is largely based upon this model] and levels of efficiency typical of a compact car”, touting it as an alternative to traditional B- and C-segment saloons.
Measuring 4,15 metres in length, 166 cm high and 178 cm wide, the 500L is 70 mm longer than a Fiat Punto. According to Fiat, the 500L’s passenger compartment will easily accommodate five 200 cm-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.
Three engines will be offered initially: a 900 cc TwinAir petrol unit (78 kW), a 1,4-litre four-cylinder petrol (70 kW) and a 1,3-litre MultiJet turbodiesel developing 63 kW.
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 5-inch touchscreen interface; a 1,5-metre panoramic glass roof and an optional audio system developed by Dr. Dre’s Beats Audio company.
All very novel, but they pale in comparison to what has to be an automotive world-first: an on-board espresso machine! According the Fiat’s initial press realese, the system is developed in conjunction with coffee afficionados Lavazza, uses the brand’s coffee pods and is integrated into the car with a deck designed by Fiat.
The 500L is built at Fiat’s Kragujevac plant in Serbia, capable of cranking out 700 cars a day. There’s currently no word regarding the 500L coming to SA, especially as such a model could potentially clash with the new Fiat Panda (due here in November/December), but the more caffeine-dependent members of the CAR team are collectively holding thumbs…
