The new Fiat 600 is more than just a larger 500—it’s Fiat’s attempt to bridge the gap between a supermini and a compact crossover. Positioned as a stylish, practical, and efficient option for city life and beyond, the 600 comes in both hybrid and fully electric (600e) variants. Fiat wants to market it as “fun,” but depending on what you expect from a car, that could mean quirky design and bright colors—or engaging driving dynamics. After driving it, the truth lies somewhere in between.
The 600 revives a historic nameplate. Back in 1955, the original Fiat 600 was a family-friendly car that paved the way for small, practical mobility in Europe, even spawning the famous 600 Multipla, a three-row six-seater runabout. Fast-forward to today, and the new 600 carries the same spirit—compact enough for urban streets but roomy enough to serve as a proper family car. It shares its underpinnings with Stellantis cousins like the Peugeot 208, Jeep Avenger, and Vauxhall Corsa, which means proven hardware and competitive pricing thanks to parts-sharing.
Inside, Fiat keeps things straightforward. While the retro flair of the exterior doesn’t fully translate to the cabin, the interior is functional, comfortable, and sprinkled with playful touches, such as the tablet-style storage lid on the dash. It feels familiar if you’ve sat in a Fiat 500 or Jeep Avenger, and while rear-seat space isn’t class-leading, it’s significantly better than the cramped 500. For buyers upgrading from Fiat’s iconic city car, the 600 will feel like a major step up in practicality.
Where things get interesting is in the powertrain lineup. Buyers can choose between the fully electric Fiat 600e and two mild-hybrid petrol models. The electric version makes 156 hp from a single motor, paired with a 51 kWh battery. Real-world range hovers around 220 miles (WLTP claim is 250), which makes it one of the more efficient small EVs. It’s smooth, quiet, and comfortable around town, though the steering is feather-light and the brake pedal inconsistent—driving enthusiasts will not find it exciting. Still, efficiency, decent charging times, and a standard heat pump make it a rational EV choice.
The hybrids take a different route. Both use a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox that houses a small electric motor powered by a 0.89 kWh battery. That setup gives you a comical 0.6 miles of electric-only range, but the mild hybrid system boosts efficiency and smooths performance. The 600 Hybrid 100HP produces 98 bhp, while the 600 Hybrid 136HP makes 134 bhp and feels like the more natural fit. Neither is sporty, but they’re punchy enough for daily driving, economical, and—most importantly—cheaper to buy than the EV. For buyers still hesitant to go fully electric, these hybrids are the sensible stepping stone.
When it comes to rivals, Fiat faces strong competition. From within Stellantis, the Jeep Avenger, Vauxhall Mokka, and Peugeot e-208 share much of the same DNA. Outside the family, there’s the MG4, BYD Dolphin, Hyundai Kona Electric, Volvo EX30, and Renault Megane E-Tech Electric. The Fiat 600 doesn’t break new ground in this field, but it does balance quirky Italian design with a practical price point, making it attractive for buyers who want personality without overspending.
So what’s the verdict? The 2025 Fiat 600 and 600e are not driver’s cars—they prioritize comfort, efficiency, and charm over sharp handling. Fiat’s idea of “fun” here is rooted in bright styling, personalization, and urban usability, not thrilling dynamics. For the buyer who loved the Fiat 500 but outgrew its size, the 600 offers the same character with far more practicality. For families or commuters who need affordable efficiency, the hybrids make sense. For early EV adopters, the 600e delivers solid range and tech at a reasonable price.
The Fiat 600 might not be revolutionary, but it is cleverly positioned. It gives Fiat a strong contender in the booming small crossover market while keeping its identity intact. Cute, rational, and just a little bit cheeky—exactly what a modern Fiat should be.
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