Fiat has announced pricing for its first crossover, the 2016 500X, which will come with a starting MSRP of $21,495. Parent company FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) Canada calls the 500X the next step in Fiat’s expansion in North America; we’d also call it the latest example of the auto industry’s overuse of the 24th letter of the alphabet.
As its name suggests, the 500X also carries on the 500 hatchback’s styling theme, but wears it far better than the ugly-duckling 500L wagon.
The $21,495 starting price is for the entry-level Pop model; from there, the range runs to the $25,995 Sport trim ($29,190 with AWD), Trekking ($26,995; $30,690 with AWD), Lounge, at $29,990 ($32,190 with AWD) and Trekking Plus ($30,490, or $32,690 with AWD). As that price list suggests, all models start as front-drivers; power is from either a 1.4-litre MultiAir turbocharged engine (160 hp/184 lb-ft of torque), or a 2.4-litre TigerShark motor making 180 hp and 175 lb-ft.
The 1.4-litre motor comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, and all 2.4-litre models get a nine-speed automatic. What we’re waiting to find out is whether all AWD models get the 2.4/nine-speed combo, or if four-wheel traction can be had with the smaller motor and manual transmission; we’re prepared to be pleasantly surprised, but are not holding our breath.
The Fiat 500X arrives in Fiat “studios” across Canada this Spring.
Fiat 500X Shown In High-Detail Images Before ...
October 1, 2014
Sicily in a Fiat 500L
January 30, 2015
Avoid Palermo traffic, she said. Approach from the south, she said.
