by Full Technical Specifications of the New Fiat 500 Hybrid
Fiat has finally published the full list of technical specifications for the new 500 Hybrid model, after only images of the car were presented last summer. These numbers demonstrate that not only does the exterior design have roots in the past century, but performance also remains at a fairly modest level.
Historical Context and Reasons for the Hybrid’s Appearance
As you may recall, Fiat decided to cease production of the previous version of the 500 with an internal combustion engine in Europe in 2024, instead of investing funds in its modernization to comply with new EU regulations. However, the electric 500e model, which was supposed to replace the conventional version, did not gain the expected demand, which forced the manufacturer to return to a hybrid transmission by reverse-engineering the electric car.
Performance and Dynamics
Under the hood of the novelty, a 1.0-liter mild hybrid engine is installed, which is practically identical to the unit used in the previous model, but with some reduction in power. Instead of 69 hp, the engine now produces 64 hp and 92 Nm of torque, which is transmitted to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.
Acceleration to 62 mph takes 16.2 seconds for the hatchback, while the convertible, which weighs 22 kg more, requires 17.3 seconds. These figures look particularly unfavorable against the background of the previous hybrid version, which accelerated in 13.8 seconds. The top speed has also decreased from 167 km/h to 150 km/h for some modifications.
Trim Levels and Body Variants
On the positive side – the new 500 Hybrid looks significantly more modern thanks to the use of a more streamlined body and an improved interior, borrowed from the electric 500e. The latter, by the way, accelerates twice as fast.
In addition to the conventional two-door hatchback, a 3+1 version with an additional rear door on the passenger side is also offered. The announcement of prices and the full list of standard equipment is currently expected, but it is already known that customers will be able to choose between three trim levels: base Pop, mid-range Icon with extended technologies, and the highest La Prima, focused on luxury and style.
This model demonstrates how automakers are sometimes forced to balance between environmental requirements and the practical possibilities of the market. The hybrid version of the 500 could become a compromise for those who are not ready to fully switch to electric cars but want a more economical and environmentally friendly option for the urban environment. However, its dynamic characteristics may be a subject of discussion among potential buyers, especially compared to modern counterparts.
