It’s funny how I can see traces of myself in almost every review, and the 2016 Fiat 500 Series is no exception. Cute and thick like me, the 500x AWD and 500L are just as adorable at first glance; but even more amazing once you get to know them.
While both offer up great visuals, the 500L has a little more real estate. Conversely, where the 500x lacks in size it makes up for it with power. The 500L features a 1.4-Liter I4Multi-Air Turbo engine paired with an Aisin 6-Speed Automatic Transmission and the 500x packs a 2.4-Liter I4 engine paired with a 9-Speed Automatic Transmission.
Both are aggressive on the road and provide a cool driving experience. The major difference in the driving is that the 500L had more of a cruising vibe, whereas the 500x AWD was more sporty in its delivery. Both had a 13.2-gallon tank with virtually the same combined MPG of 24 and 25 respectively on the 500x and 500L, which made getting around easy and alleviated the stress at the pump. Bending corners in both models and sticking the pocket like the latest pair of hip-huggers, these models easily adjusted to your driving preference.
Visually, both models greet you with large Bi-Function Halogen Projector Headlamps, Body-color Fascias, bright exhaust tips and All-Season tires. Slight variations with the 500x AWD as it offers Fog and Cornering lamps, exterior mirrors with heating elements, satin silver door handles, ParkSense Rear Park Assist System and ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera. The 5ooL offers contrasting roof coloring and the ever-so-handy Hill Start Assist which was great for those roll-back streets.
Practically mirroring each other in the safety department, both come with standard Multi-Stage Airbags, LATCH Ready Child Seat Anchor System, 4-Wheel Anti-Lock Brakes and Electronic Stability Control.
The interior of the 500L and the 500x AWD again are similar, but still have their own unique personality traits via their respective and optional Customer Preferred Packages.
The 500L’s Optional Preferred Package 23G Trekking Collection 5 has snazzier features than its fraternal twin. The Beats by Dre Premium Audio System, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, UConnect 6.5, leather-trimmed bucket seats, Dual Pane Sunroof, Premium Wrapped Instrument Panel Bezels, heated front seats with power driver 4-way lumbar adjust and A/C Auto Temperature Control with Dual Zone Control.
The 500x didn’t come with as many bells and whistles, but it’s no shrinking violet either.
The Optional Preferred Package 27G Trekking Collection 5 includes Blind Spot and Cross Path Detection, UConnect 6.5 Navigation, HD Radio and SiriusXM Traffic w/5-Year Subscription, 18-inch x 7.0-inch Aluminum Wheels and a 6.5-inch Touch Screen Display.
The 500L seems to be engineered more towards the comfort-driven driving experience whereas the 500x AWD caters to a sportier lifestyle.
Both models can satisfy any palette; its just a matter of what tickles your fancy.
The 500x AWD’s MSRP $27,930 and the 500L’s MSRP $30,525
(Both come with a Basic 4-Year/ 50,000 Mile Warranty, 4-Year/50,000 Powertrain Warranty and Roadside Assistance)