Fiat trims the lineup 500L compact wagon for 2017, to a trio of models dubbed Sport, Trekking and Lounge; gone are the entry-level Pop and mid-range Trekking Urbana trims.
The basic formula remains the same, however. Fiat says the 500L "combines the appeal of the iconic 500 with four doors and comfortable seating for five," and the second half of that statement is true. The 500L has always look awkward to us, but it is a useful enough car, with decent interior space.
Fiat has slotted itself into a small niche with the 500L, which competes with a small number of similar vehicles. There's the Kia Soul, and if you're willing to suspend your disbelief somewhat, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class. There's a fine line between compact hatchbacks and subcompact crossovers, and that's where Fiat sees the 500L fitting in.
Motivation comes from a 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 160 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque. That brings us to the other bit of news for 2017: a manual transmission that was available last year is now gone, leaving a six-speed automatic as the only gearbox on offer.
Fuel consumption estimates, according to Natural Resources Canada, as 10.7/7.9 L/100 km (city/highway).
Sport trim, at $25,245, comes with air conditioning with dual-zone automatic climate control, a 115-volt power outlet, auto-dimming rearview mirror, vehicle information centre, chrome and leather-trimmed shifter and leather-wrapped steering wheel, multi-position cargo shelf, power locks and windows, power heated side mirrors, heated front seats, cloth upholstery, 60/40 split-folding rear seat with tilt/tumble/slide functions, cruise control, Uconnect infotainment with five-inch touchscreen display, six-speaker stereo with USB and auxiliary inputs and Bluetooth streaming audio, garage door opener, bright door handles and exhaust tip, fog lights, 16-inch aluminum wheels, keyless entry and tire pressure monitoring.
Trekking trim ($26,745) adds premium cloth seats, "stone" instrument panel, 17-inch wheels, body-colour fascia with accents, unique front and rear fascia, sill moulding and wheel arch mouldings.
Finally, Lounge trim ($28,245) brings leather-faced seats, chrome body side moulding trim and mirrors, six-speaker stereo, premium vinyl-wrapped instrument panel, rear-seat armrest, rear park assist, backup camera and front passenger power four-way lumbar adjustment.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
