Husband and wife team give their verdicts on the new Fiat 500X

This content was originally posted in 7DAYS UAE website at: Husband and wife team give their verdicts on the new Fiat 500X Fiat has added a new model to its Middle East line-up, the 500x. The crossover joins a family that already consists of the 500, 500C and 500L. However, the 500x is a step away from the cutesy little runaround that dates back to the late 1950s. This is a much more modern car, with the modern driver in mind. Prices start from Dhs69,900 and it comes with a choice of two engines (a 140bhp 1.4-litre and a 184bhp 2.4-litre), five seats and an impressive 350 litres of boot space. The top-of-the-range Cross Plus even has off-road capability. The range starts with the Popstar version, which features 17ins wheels, cruise control, automatic climate control and rear parking sensors, as well as remote central locking and electric front and rear windows. Next up in the range is the Lounge, which adds dark-tinted rear windows to the spec, as well as an adjustable cargo floor, 17ins alloy wheels, a chrome-effect exterior styling kit and leather-trimmed gear stick. Finally, there is the Fiat 500X Cross Plus, which includes a Traction Plus system, roof bars, chrome exhaust trims, 18ins alloy wheels and 3D navigation. Fiat says the line-up aims to appeal to both “fun-loving metropolitan” people and those who are seeking “adventure” as well. So, we decided to see if the car could appeal to two very different drivers – 7DAYS Deputy Editor Simon Pluckrose, known for his ponderous (read slow) style of getting from A to B, often via C and D as he hates sat nav, and his wife Kristina, much more in the ‘fun-loving’ category on the road as she is passionate about sports cars and convertibles. Here, the couple give their individual verdicts on the Fiat 500x. What did you like most about the Fiat 500x? Simon: The price. While specification-wise, it is no match for fellow icons the MINI and Beetle, the Fiat 500 commands the same cool factor. So, to be able to buy that for nearly half the price of the others is very attractive. Kristina: This is a great size car for the roads here, especially when it comes to parking. It also looks cool and the 350 litres of boot space is big for a smaller crossover. What did you least like? Simon: You get what you pay for. The car is a little rough around the edges. I drove it to Abu Dhabi and back and wished I hadn’t. Kristina: The steering wheel is quite small and rear visibility is poor. Also, when I put my handbag on the passenger seat, I had to plug in the seat belt otherwise the alarm went off. What was it like to drive? Simon: It’s a great city car. There’s nothing spectacular about the engine or gearbox but, that said, the 500x is nippy and has plenty to get around town. In particular, the extra height makes it much easier to drive on busy routes such as Sheikh Zayed Road, where it can be intimidating to be in a ‘little’ car. Kristina: It is nice to drive, although not particularly speedy. The gears are jerky, though, a lawn mower would change easier. However, overall, I was very happy as it’s a solid car on the road, which I love. What do you think of the exterior? Simon: There are elements of Fiat 500 cuteness, such as the chunky rear and clamshell bonnet. Kristina: The outside looks great, funky yet practical. What about the interior? Simon: For the price, the interior is fine. Decent seats, smart dashboard. There’s nothing eye-popping in there, but also nothing cheap either. Kristina: I wasn’t fussed about the interior, I think it could be more exciting to match the outside. Also, some of the controls are in odd places. I reached for the air con thinking it was the radio at least four times! How could Fiat make it better? Simon: I’d like more emphasis on the design, a jazzier front end for example, and more personality. Kristina: Make the gears smoother and windows bigger for better all round visibility. Do you think that is value for money? Simon: Definitely. Even the top of the range model, which has all-wheel drive, is still only Dhs105,000. Kristina: At about Dhs70,000, the price is reasonable. I would buy one if the gears were better. simon@7days.ae Read the original story at: Husband and wife team give their verdicts on the new Fiat 500X