I tested the electrical replacement for the discontinued Fiat 500 – it’s fast, but the flaw means you can only use it in the city

The Fiat 500 is back in America, but this time it’s shocking.

Fiat has brought its most iconic car back to the US market after a five-year hiatus as an electric vehicle.

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I test drove the 2024 Fiat 500e for eight days. It’s cute as a button, but I don’t think it’s the most practical use of money.

Fiat discontinued the 500 from the US market in 2019 and focused on selling the vehicles in the European market.

In Europe, 500e models sell like gangbusters.

• This story is part of a series of tests carried out by Ben Shimkus, engine reporter for The US Sun.

The company reported having sold 185,000 vehicle units on the continent between 2020 and 2023.

Now, Fiat hopes to bring the 500e to American city dwellers with short daily commutes.

The cute two-door car thrives in an urban environment. It’s easy to park, quick on corners and elegantly decorated.

The company stitched its name onto the seat backs and circular LED headlights replaced the discontinued version’s bulbous halogen lights.

Inside, the interior is quite elegant. The company fills the cabin with a heavy dose of two-tone fabrics and easy-to-decipher buttons.

A well-equipped infotainment system stands out in the center of the dashboard. It uses the same digital operating system as other new Stellantis models, such as the Dodge Hornet.

Additionally, our tester is one of three versions released on the US market – called the “Inspired by Music” version.

The car is painted tuxedo black with high-quality speakers tuned by opera star Andrea Bocelli.

But frankly, I don’t blame drivers who aren’t won over by the pretty flashing headlights and great stereo.

The 500e’s battery offers just 160 miles of estimated range, which is about half the range of most of its competitors.

Once again, Fiat says the car shines within city limits. But I would say it is limited to being exclusively a daily driver.

Car owners will need another vehicle if they anticipate traveling more than 80 miles in both directions.

Fiat 500e review

Ben Shimkus, automotive journalist for The US Sun, tested the Fiat 500e. Here are his thoughts:

The Fiat was brought back to the US market as an EV.

It’s adorable and selling like gangbusters in the European market.

However, as our Level 3 charging systems expand and other companies offer longer range options in America, I’m not sure this car is super competitive in the broad market.

Here are my thoughts.

Pros:

• Super cute style – The headlights, door handles and seat backs are so fun.
• Parking!! – This car can fit anywhere with this short wheelbase and sharp corners.
• Elegant interior – The interior is elegantly decorated.
• Great sound – Andrea Bocelli tuned this one well! The sound system is of high quality.

Cons:

• Short Range – This car does not have enough electric range to be a serious competitor in the American market.
• Rough Ride – Any small car’s suspension is expected to be bumpy. But, this one is tough.
• High price – $37,757 for a tiny car with a small range? I’m not sold.
• Only one cup holder in the center console – Why? WHY? (It’s also far from the driver and the insert always sticks to my cup.)

Fast charging will give drivers an 80% boost in at least 35 minutes. Our tester estimated that a quick charge would take about 50 minutes.

Despite the limited range and battery charging capacity, our tester still had a price tag of $37,575.

For similar prices, drivers can purchase several competitors, such as the Hyundai Ioniq 6 or Tesla Model 3, and get larger cars with at least 80 more miles of range and faster charging speeds.

My last complaint is the cup holder. There is only one shared cup holder in the front seat. Why is this a trend? (I’m looking at you too, Polestar.)

The Fiat 500e is a stylish car that can be suitable for a small family living in the city.

But asking drivers to shell out nearly $40,000 for an EV with less than 200 miles of range seems like a tough sell.

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