Baby Fiat 500, now all grown-up

This is Fiat's first steps into the fastest growing segment of the auto market and the new 500X is faced with a huge task of trying to find traction in a market dominated by well-established brands.

As it is, Fiat is not exactly a big seller in any segment of the South African market even though it is hugely popular in Europe, particularly in Italy. The brand's lack of grip on the local market is two-fold: big numbers on the price tags of its cars and local dealerships that are few and thinly spread.

"A beauty with character" is Fiat-speak for its new 500X and yes, it has the DNA of the original 1957 model - pop-eyed headlights, the classic logo, chrome-plated bonnet trim and the same compact, cocky Jack Russell stance as the rest of the existing clan of 500, 500C, 500L, and 500L Trekking models.

However, it will take more than sentiment to compete against the existing gang of off-road pretenders such as the Citroen Cactus, Renault Captur, Jeep Renegade and Opel Mokka.

Nobody would seriously consider the 500X to be an off-roader, in spite of its raised ride height and haute couture bushwhacking body trim because, like the other crossovers, the fancy make-up is merely intended to give its driver a cool outdoorsy image while it spends its life as an eye magnet in the urban jungle.

Built in Melfi, Italy and sold in more than 100 countries worldwide, the new Fiat 500X (only available in front-wheel drive) will go on sale locally in the guises of 500X Pop Star, 500X Cross, 500X Cross auto, 500X Plus and Cross Plus DDCT. There are two engine choices: a normally-aspirated 81kW/152Nm 1.6-litre and the popular 105kW and 230Nm 1.4-litre turbo engine which already does duty in other Fiats.

Of the five-model range, only the 1.4 Cross with a 5-speed manual and the 1.4 cross auto are on sale now with the other variants to follow later this year.

At the local media launch, I got to play with the 1.4-litre and immediately took to its peppy character. It is sharp off the mark (0-100km/h in 9.8sec and top speed of 190km/h) and equally at home in congested traffic or the open road. The steering is light and parking is a breeze. All the X models have a "Drive Mood Selector" which affects key role-players such as the engine, transmission, steering and ride (although not remarkably so) depending on whether you select Auto, Sport or All Weather. Combined cycle fuel consumption is given as 6.0litres/100km.

Besides being pleasant to drive and easy to park, the cabin is spacious and the seats (renowned for being suited more to Italian bods than bulkier Seffrikens) are surprisingly comfortable. The living quarters are classy and stylishly decorated with the main focus on the hub of infotainment, the 5-inch or 6.5-inch touchscreens with Bluetooth interface, Aux-in connector, USB port and the rest.

Another impressive feature of the attractive new Italian wagon is its high safety level which includes six airbags (front, window bags and side bags), front headlights with daytime running lights, fog lights with self-adaptive cornering function and ABS brakes with Electronic Stability Control. Optional extras include Lane Assist, Blind Spot Assist and a ParkView rear camera for reversing.

As a package the grown-up 500X has what it takes to appeal to families and singles: stylish looks, a good ride, comfortable, well-equipped, practical and safe living quarters and a cheeky fun character that has stood the test of time.

The models and prices (inclusive of a three year/100,000 km warranty and maintenance plan, are: