Undefined Fiat 500L 2017 Refresh: Family-Friendly Review

The Fiat 500L entered the compact MPV market as a stretched take on the iconic 500 city car, prioritizing space and personality over outright sportiness. For 2017, Fiat introduced a facelift that refined its quirky aesthetics, boosted interior quality, and added cutting-edge connectivity, aiming to keep pace with evolving family demands. This update maintains the model’s distinctive appeal while addressing some prior shortcomings, though it still trails more polished competitors in driving refinement.

Design Evolution and Variant Options

Fiat’s 2017 refresh subtly evolves the 500L’s polarizing exterior, incorporating chrome accents on the front grille, sleek LED daytime running lights, and reshaped bumpers for a fresher look. New paint options enhance customization, preserving the retro-inspired silhouette that echoes the classic 500 but scales it up for practicality. The body stretches to accommodate five passengers comfortably, blending hatchback agility with MPV versatility.

Trim levels were streamlined into Urban, Cross, and Wagon variants. The base Urban suits city dwellers with its standard height and efficient setup. The Cross variant elevates the adventure quotient with 25mm higher ground clearance, rugged skid plates, and side cladding, mimicking crossover vibes without full SUV capability. The Wagon extends boot space further for those needing maximum cargo flexibility. These choices allow buyers to tailor the 500L to urban commutes or light off-road jaunts.

Interior Comfort and Practicality Highlights

Step inside the refreshed 500L, and improvements shine through upgraded materials, soft-touch surfaces on the dashboard and doors, and a reconfigured center console. The gear lever sits higher for easier access, swapping the old aircraft-style handbrake for a traditional lever. New instrumentation features dual analog gauges flanking a TFT display, with white-backlit switches adding a premium touch. Ambient lighting and a multi-function steering wheel elevate the cabin ambiance.

Space is a standout: front seats offer commanding visibility thanks to large glass areas and high mounting, while rear legroom and headroom rival small crossovers. The innovative sliding rear bench adjusts for passenger or cargo needs, yielding up to 455 liters of boot space with seats up, expanding significantly when folded—though not perfectly flat in some configurations. Storage abounds with deep door pockets, dual gloveboxes, and a central armrest cubby, making it family-friendly.

This table compares cargo prowess, highlighting the 500L’s edge in versatility.

Technology and Infotainment Upgrades

The headline interior upgrade is the Uconnect Live HD system: a vibrant 7-inch touchscreen supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It handles navigation, media, and phone integration smoothly, though menu transitions can lag slightly. Climate controls remain physical for quick access, and the Cross model’s drive mode selector—offering Auto, Wet, and Gravity Control (hill descent)—adds utility for varied conditions.

• Key Tech Features: 7-inch HD touchscreen, smartphone mirroring, TFT driver display.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
• Comfort Add-ons: Ambient lighting, upgraded audio options on higher trims.

These enhancements make the 500L feel contemporary, bridging the gap to tech-savvy rivals like the Ford B-Max.

Performance and Engine Lineup

Power comes from a 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine producing 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque in most markets, paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission post-2017. Diesel options, where available, deliver punchier low-end pull and better efficiency. Fuel economy hovers around 22 mpg city/30 highway, respectable but outpaced by efficient rivals like the Kia Soul.

Acceleration feels adequate for urban duties but lacks zest on highways, with the extra weight dulling responsiveness. The automatic shifts smoothly yet can feel obstructive during enthusiastic driving.

Driving Dynamics and Ride Quality

The 500L prioritizes comfort over sportiness, with soft suspension absorbing urban potholes effectively. The Cross’s raised ride height aids gravel tracks, aided by traction modes, but front-wheel drive limits serious off-roading. Body roll is evident in corners, steering is light, and brakes can feel touchy, challenging smooth stops.

Compared to the Vauxhall Crossland X or Ford B-Max, it transmits more harshness over expansion joints, yet excels in visibility and ease around town. It’s a relaxed cruiser, not a driver’s delight.

Safety Ratings and Features

Safety sees mixed results: the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded Good ratings in most crash tests but Poor in small overlap front impact. Standard features include stability control and multiple airbags; higher trims add parking sensors. Active safety tech like autonomous braking was absent at launch, trailing newer rivals.

• IIHS Small Overlap: Poor
• Other Crash Tests: Good
• Standard Safety: ABS, ESC, 7 airbags

Ownership Costs and Rival Comparison

Pricing positioned the 500L competitively, with base models undercutting premium small MPVs. Maintenance follows Fiat’s affordable pattern, though reliability concerns linger from owner feedback. Fuel and insurance costs suit budget-conscious families.

Rivals often edge it in polish, but the 500L’s character and space shine.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Spacious cabin, versatile seating, modern tech, distinctive design, good visibility.
• Cons: Mediocre handling, choppy ride on rough roads, sluggish acceleration, mixed safety scores.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2017 Fiat 500L reliable?

Owner reviews note decent reliability for urban use, with comfortable rides and efficiency, though some report minor issues like electronics.

How does the 500L compare to the 500X?

The 500X offers true crossover traits and better dynamics, making it preferable for varied terrain, while the 500L excels in pure space.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Expect 22/30 mpg city/highway for the petrol auto, varying by driving style.

Can it handle off-road?

The Cross variant manages light gravel with modes like Gravity Control, but lacks AWD for serious trails.

Is the interior spacious for families?

Yes, with sliding rears, ample legroom, and 455+ liters boot space.

Final Verdict

The 2017 Fiat 500L refresh delivers a compelling package for style-conscious families seeking space without SUV bulk. Its charm, tech upgrades, and practicality offset dynamic compromises, though diesel variants or the 500X may suit enthusiasts better. In a sea of bland MPVs, it remains a breath of Italian flair.