The Fiat 600 marks a return to form for the brand, blending attractive styling inspired by its smaller 500 electric sibling with improved practicality. This compact electric SUV offers a compelling package, combining a decent equipment list with a distinctive Italian design. While some may see it as another iteration of the Stellantis group’s small SUV platform, the 600 distinguishes itself enough to stand on its own.
A Mature Offering: Balancing Style and Functionality
The 600 doesn’t capture the same playful spirit as the 500, but that’s intentional. It’s designed as a more mature, family-friendly option, offering greater usability without sacrificing style. Today’s buyers accept that brands can stretch their iconic models—MINI’s Countryman is larger than both a Nissan Qashqai and Range Rover Evoque—so Fiat’s expansion of the 500 brand feels natural. The 600 fills a gap between superminis and larger SUVs, offering both mild-hybrid and fully electric powertrains.
Performance and Driving Experience: A Comfortable Ride
The Fiat 600 doesn’t boast blistering acceleration, but provides a comfortable driving experience, particularly in urban environments. It handles rough road surfaces well, though it lacks the excitement found in sportier rivals. Both the hybrid and electric models deliver a similar feel behind the wheel, with the mild-hybrid variants using a 1.2-liter petrol engine paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. The fully electric 600e features a front-mounted motor producing 156 bhp, though it defaults to a reduced output for efficiency.
While not as refined as some competitors, the 600 strikes a balance between comfort and control. Its light steering makes maneuvering easy, and visibility is good thanks to the high driving position. The electric version may spin its front tires if you push the accelerator aggressively, but with measured throttle control, it achieves 0-62 mph in a respectable 9 seconds.
Pricing and Value: A Competitive Package
Pricing for the Fiat 600 Hybrid starts just under £26,000 for the entry-level Pop trim, with Icon and La Prima trims costing £1,500 and £3,000 more, respectively. The Sport variant matches the La Prima in price but offers unique styling tweaks. The electric 600e adds a modest premium of around £1,000 to each trim level, starting at approximately £27,000 for the Pop model.
Running Costs and Efficiency: Hybrid vs. Electric
The hybrid model offers an impressive 58.8 mpg, though it falls slightly short of rivals like the Nissan Juke Hybrid. The electric 600e claims a range of 254 miles, but real-world testing yields around 187 miles, making it less efficient than some competitors. However, the 600e benefits from a standard heat pump, ensuring consistent range even in colder weather.
Insurance costs are reasonable, falling between groups 21 and 27. Depreciation is moderate, retaining between 47 and 50 percent of its value after three years. The 600e’s zero-emission status provides significant company car tax benefits for business buyers.
Interior and Design: A Smart, But Not Spectacular Cabin
The interior design isn’t as striking as some other Fiat models, but it’s well-equipped and features eye-catching color options. The cabin shares similarities with the Jeep Avenger, including the same infotainment system and central storage area. Build quality is questionable in some areas, but the overall design is functional and modern.
In conclusion, the Fiat 600 is a well-rounded electric SUV that delivers practicality, style, and reasonable running costs. While it may not be the most exciting option in its class, it provides a comfortable and engaging driving experience, making it a compelling choice for families and urban drivers alike.
