2024 Fiat 500e

2024 FIAT 500e Expert Review

The 2024 Fiat 500e marks the long-awaited return of Fiat’s all-electric city car to the U.S. market. With its charming European design, zero-emissions powertrain, and surprisingly premium features, the 500e aims to carve a niche in the growing small EV segment. Starting at $32,500, the new Fiat 500e combines style, sustainability, and urban practicality.

Compact and charismatic, this electric hatchback is perfect for city dwellers and eco-conscious drivers looking for something different from the usual electric crowd.

Quick Overview: The Fiat 500e is Back in the U.S.

After a brief hiatus, Fiat is reintroducing the 500e to American streets, this time with a fully modernized EV platform. Designed and built in Italy, the 2024 500e keeps its retro-modern style but adds cutting-edge features and improved range.

Key Highlights:

• Starting price: $32,500
• Electric motor with 118 horsepower
• 149-mile EPA-estimated range
• 85 kW DC fast-charging capability
• Compact footprint ideal for city living

Fiat is initially launching a single “Inspired by Beauty” La Prima trim for U.S. buyers, with more variants expected in future model years.

Exterior: Style That Turns Heads

The 500e blends retro charm with futuristic flair. It still resembles the classic Fiat 500 with its iconic rounded silhouette, but with modern tweaks like slimmer LED headlights, flush door handles, and a sleeker front fascia.

Exterior features include:

• Full LED lighting front and rear
• Panoramic fixed-glass roof
• 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
• “500” illuminated front badge (replaces Fiat logo)
• Available in unique shades like Rose Gold and Celestial Blue

Its short overhangs and ultra-compact size (about 142 inches long) make it incredibly easy to maneuver and park ideal for tight city streets.

Interior: Small but Surprisingly Upscale

Step inside the 2024 Fiat 500e, and you’ll find a modern, minimalistic cabin that feels more premium than you’d expect at this price. The use of sustainable materials, clean lines, and a digital interface give it a fresh, futuristic vibe.

Interior features include:

• Vegan leather upholstery
• Heated front seats
• 10.25-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen with navigation
• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• 7-inch digital instrument cluster
• Ambient lighting and recycled fabrics

The front seats are roomy enough for average-height adults, though the rear seats are best for short trips or kids. Cargo space is tight, but fold-down seats add flexibility.

Performance: Zippy and Quiet

The 500e is not a performance EV, but it delivers just the right amount of punch for city life. It’s powered by a 118-hp electric motor paired with a 42 kWh battery, sending power to the front wheels.

• 0–60 mph: ~8.5 seconds
• Top speed: 93 mph
• Driving modes: Normal, Range, and Sherpa (eco-focused)

Thanks to its low weight (around 3,000 lbs), the 500e feels nimble and light on its feet. Steering is sharp, making it fun to drive in urban settings. Acceleration is instant and responsive at low speeds—perfect for stop-and-go traffic.

Range and Charging: Good for Urban Lifestyles

With a 149-mile EPA-estimated range, the 500e is tailored for urban and suburban commutes, not long road trips. Still, for daily driving, the range is more than sufficient.

Charging capabilities:

• Level 2 AC charging (11 kW) – Full charge in ~4 hours
• DC fast charging (85 kW) – 0–80% in ~35 minutes

Fiat includes a home charging wall box with each purchase (limited-time offer), helping owners easily recharge overnight.

Technology: Compact but Connected

Fiat integrates its latest tech into the 500e, centered around the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. The system is responsive, customizable, and supports over-the-air updates.

Tech features include:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Built-in navigation with EV route planning
• Voice control and Alexa integration
• USB-C charging ports
• Optional JBL premium audio system with 6 speakers

Even in its compact form, the 500e offers a seamless digital experience comparable to larger, more expensive EVs.

Safety: Big on Urban Protection

Though small in size, the 2024 Fiat 500e doesn’t skimp on safety. It includes advanced driver-assistance features that make city driving safer and easier.

Standard safety features:

• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning
• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Parking sensors
• Rearview camera
• Intelligent speed assist and drowsiness detection

The structure has also been updated to meet modern crash standards, offering peace of mind in its compact footprint.

Pricing and Incentives

This launch edition comes fully loaded with luxury touches and tech features. Fiat plans to release more affordable variants (likely below $30,000) in late 2024 or early 2025.

Potential federal and state EV tax credits may apply, further lowering the cost depending on location.

Competitors: Where It Stands

The Fiat 500e competes with other small EVs like:

• Mini Cooper SE (114-mile range, sportier dynamics)
• Chevrolet Bolt EUV (longer range, larger cabin)
• Nissan Leaf S (basic but affordable)
• Hyundai Kona Electric (more range, higher price)

The Fiat stands out with its design-forward approach, European charm, and ultra-compact size—making it a city car first and foremost.

Final Verdict: Perfect for Urban EV Buyers

The 2024 Fiat 500e is a breath of fresh air in the electric vehicle world. It’s not the longest-range EV or the fastest, but it delivers on what it promises: fun, efficiency, and a fashionable, sustainable way to get around town.

Pros:

✅Stylish Italian design

✅Compact and easy to park

✅Solid EV tech and connectivity

✅Premium interior touches

✅Ideal for urban environments

Cons:

❌Limited rear-seat and cargo space

❌149-mile range may not suit long-distance drivers

❌Only one (high-spec) trim at launch

If you’re looking for an affordable electric vehicle with charm and character—and don’t need long-range driving the Fiat 500e is a truly unique and joyful choice.

Price Summary:
2024 Fiat 500e (La Prima Launch Edition) – Starting at $32,500
Eligible for federal and state EV incentives (varies by region)

2024 Fiat 500e Videos:

2024 FIAT 500e Photos: