2017 Fiat 500L Pros vs Cons

The 2017 Fiat 500L might be an intriguing choice for someone who is interested in purchasing a new car. This four-door car provides owners with an array of standard features, and it provides ample passenger space for those who might have to carpool. This model has several excellent reasons for people to purchase it, but it does have a few drawbacks that make it better or worse for some.

What’s New for 2017

There were a few issues with the past Fiat 500 models, but it is a brand-new year, and the new Fiat 500L has a few changes that make it stand out more than past models. Past models of the Fiat 500 had five trim levels, but the new 2017 model has been simplified to only having three. Another substantial change is in the transmission. All 2017 Fiat 500Ls come with an automatic six-speed traditional transmission, replacing the sluggish dual-clutch automatic and manual transmissions uses previously.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2017 Fiat 500L – The Pros

1. Comfortable Seating

The 2017 500L seats up to five people comfortably. The front seats are designed wider than most models, making it ideal for a larger range of drivers. The rear seat is a 3-person bench, and it can fit two adults comfortably. The rear seats also flip, recline, and slide to the passengers liking. The standard package comes with cloth upholstery, but the option of leather upholstery and heated front seats are available for those who wish it.

2. Cutting Edge Interior Technology

The standard 2017 500L model comes with a USB port, a six-speaker audio system, and a 5-inch touch screen that is connected to Fiat’s Uconnect infotainment system. If someone is looking for a better technology package, they can upgrade the 5-inch to a 6.5-inch screen that includes a navigation system. There is also an option for satellite radio, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera that can assist drivers. This system was also designed to sync easily with most smartphones.

3. Larger Cargo Space

The 2017 Fiat 500L offers enough room for five adults to sit comfortably, and it also has various bins that are hidden throughout the car. For general carrying, this model provides ample space in its rear department to carry things like sporting equipment or luggage for travel when compared to the previous 500 model.

4. Ample Air Bag Coverage

This model provides the driver the option to turn their passenger air bag system on or off. To protect those riding in the vehicle, this model comes with side and rear head air bags, rear body air bags, a driver air bag, side air bags, and passenger air bags. Therefore, no matter where one might be sitting in this model they have plenty of air bag coverage to protect them in an event of an accident.

5. Excellent Fuel Economy

For a wagon model, the 2017 500L has reasonable fuel economy. According to the EPA, this model has an average fuel economy of 25 mpg. For those that must venture on the highway more often, it gets around 30 mpg on the highway. It is less effective in the city where it gets only 22 mpg. That is better than most other vehicle models of its type, making it an excellent choice overall.

6. Strong Breaking Capacity

Compared to other small wagon models, the 2017 Fiat 500L has an excellent breaking system that has a surprisingly strong pedal feel. It also comes with ABS breaks to help make stopping the vehicle easier. This model uses 4-wheel disc and drum brakes, and it also has front breaks of both types.

7. High Safety Rating

Unlike past models, the 2017 Fiat 500L has received a four-star rating for its overall safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration came to this conclusion due to the integrated steel safety frame and the seven air bags that it has.

8. Excellent Warranty

The 2017 500L comes with an excellent warranty. It lasts up to four years or to 50,000 miles. This allows people to purchase this model with peace of mind that they will have a solid investment for years to come.

9. Larger Doors and Space

The 2017 Fiat 500L comes with larger doors than other small wagons. This makes it easier for people of all sizes to get in and out of the vehicle with ease and comfort. The ceiling is also a bit higher than other models of its kind, which allows those who are taller to fit into it comfortably, as well.

10. Extra Customization Options

Unlike with other small wagon types, the 2017 Fiat 500L can be customized to a person’s personal tastes. For instance, people can choose between 15 different exterior colors. Plus, they can choose between three different exterior appearances. This means that it can be customized to fit how anyone prefers upon purchase.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2017 Fiat 500L – The Cons

1. Poor Terrain Quality

Compared to other small wagons, this model does not ride well on different terrains. It provides a choppy ride quality, especially when driven over rough pavement. Therefore, it is not idea for drivers who plan on having to drive over diverse types of terrain.

2. Lack of Folding Rear Seats

Unlike other small wagons, the 2017 Fiat 500L’s back seats do not fold down flat. Therefore, it can difficult to carry larger types of cargo. It wouldn’t make an appropriate choice for anyone who has plans to carry large equipment or cargo that might need a larger space to fit properly.

3. Slower Speed

For people who enjoy speed, the 2017 Fiat 500L gives off a slower feel that most other cars in its class. It will make trips seem to take forever, which will be less ideal for those who enjoy traveling.

4. Limited Visibility

The 2017 Fiat 500L is among the worst of its class when it comes to visibility. This is because of a combination of an awkward driving position and so-so handling quality. This makes it tougher to do things like change lanes with ease, thanks to the limited visibility of how the car is constructed.

The 2017 Fiat 500L vs Its Competitors:

Compared to other vehicles of its class, this model stands in the middle. It does have a few redeeming qualities over other’s in its class like the Mini Countryman. For one, the 500L comes with a lot more cargo room, and its infotainment system is easier to use. However, even though the Mini Countryman is a little more expensive, it has a higher reliability rating, which means less repair time in the long-run.

Conclusion

The 2017 Fiat 500L is ideal for those who need an affordable vehicle that provides space and room for the driver and their passengers to ride comfortably. It’s safety features make it great for a family vehicle. It’s cargo space makes it excellent for those who have to carry things for various reasons, like sports equipment and other various things.