2017 Fiat 500 vs. 2017 Fiat 500L

Fiat 500

Fiat 500L

If you’re looking for a small hatchback with some stylish flare and proportions that are made for navigating tight Chicago streets, the 2017 Fiat 500 and 2017 Fiat 500L both make the grade. They fulfill different needs in terms of price, size, and performance, though. Find out which of these Fiat hatchbacks is the best one for you, and then make the trip from Naperville to check them out at Bettenhausen Fiat in Tinley Park.

Both of these Fiat hatchbacks are affordable, though the Fiat 500 might to appeal more to buyers on a tighter budget, as it has an MRSP from $14,995. The Fiat 500L is a bit pricier with an MSRP from $20,995, but it also provides more space.

Performance Specs & Fuel Economy

Under the hood of the 2017 Fiat 500 Pop and Lounge trims, you’ll find a 1.4L inline-four engine that generates 101 hp and 98 lb-ft of torque. They are able to get up to an EPA-estimated 27 mpg/city and 33 mpg/highway. The Abarth trim offers a turbocharged 1.4L inline-four that makes 160 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque with the five-speed manual transmission, and 157 hp and 183 lb-ft of torque with the automatic.

The 2017 Fiat 500L comes standard with a turbocharged 1.4L inline-four engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, which combine to send out a total of 160 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. EPA estimates on this model are 30 mpg/highway and 22 mpg/city.

The Fiat 500 and Fiat 500L are both small hatchbacks that are flexible and small enough to be great for city driving. Inside, they fulfill slightly different needs.

• Fiat 500 – This model can seat up to four passengers and comes with 9.5 cubic feet of dedicated cargo space, making it a great option for commuters who might need to drive into the city. Fold the rear seats down and you’ll get a max cargo volume of 30.2 cubic feet.
• Fiat 500L – The Fiat 500L can seat up to five passengers and comes with 22.4 cubic feet of dedicated cargo space in back, as well as a max cargo volume of 68 cubic feet, providing more space for families.