The 2024 Fiat 500e is a small electric three-door hatchback that serves as a fashion accessory while also offering practicality as a short-range EV. The car features similar design elements to its predecessor, the Fiat 500, and is targeted towards urban drivers. With a starting price of $34,095 and an EPA-rated range of 149 miles, the 500e is positioned as a fun and affordable option for city dwellers. Despite its limited range and small size, the Fiat 500e offers quick acceleration and maneuverability in congested urban areas.
**Identifiably a Fiat 500**
The 2024 Fiat 500e retains the iconic design cues of the Fiat 500, with slight changes to make it more modern and adult-like. The interior features a blend of black plastics with gray seat inserts, paying homage to the original Fiat 500. The car is equipped with a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.3-inch central touchscreen display, making it suitable as a commuter or second vehicle for city driving.
**Fit for the City**
Powered by a 42-kilowatt-hour battery and an 87-kilowatt motor, the 500e offers adequate acceleration and range for urban use. With three driving modes, Normal, Range, and Sherpa, drivers can choose between performance and efficiency. The 500e excels in tight spaces with its small size, nimble handling, and impressive turning radius.
**Seats Two Adults, Two Tiny People, and One Drink**
Despite being a four-seater, the 500e is best suited for two adults and two small passengers due to limited rear seat space. The car offers good headroom and visibility, making it feel larger inside than it appears from the outside. However, the lack of folding rear seatbacks and only one cupholder are notable drawbacks that Fiat plans to address in future models.
**Ratings and Safety**
As of now, neither the NHTSA nor the IIHS has rated the 2024 Fiat 500e for crash safety. Due to its likely low volume, official safety ratings may not be available in the near future. However, Fiat is expected to prioritize safety in its design and engineering to ensure the 500e meets or exceeds industry standards.
**Final Thoughts**
The 2024 Fiat 500e stands out as a stylish and practical electric vehicle for urban drivers. While it may not have the longest range or the most spacious interior, the 500e offers a compelling mix of performance, affordability, and compact size. With its distinctive design and agile driving characteristics, the Fiat 500e is positioned to attract consumers looking for a fun and environmentally friendly city car.