For many years, diesel vehicles were the undisputed leaders in fuel efficiency. However, with the growing popularity of zero-emissions vehicles and the long-lasting consequences of the Dieselgate scandal, diesel cars have fallen out of favor.
Despite this, they continue to maintain a small yet dedicated following, and not every automaker has abandoned their development.
In fact, many of today’s diesel models are more fuel-efficient than ever, and they are readily available in dealerships. Unfortunately for diesel enthusiasts in the U.S., most of these dealerships are located in Europe.
This is because leading automakers like Mercedes-Benz have chosen not to introduce their diesel models in the U.S., citing a long-standing lack of demand.
Over in Europe, automakers have offered a wide range of remarkably fuel-efficient diesel cars over the past decade. Additionally, there are a few older models that remain notable for their exceptional performance.
Diesel Vehicles That Stretch a Gallon
We have compiled a non-exhaustive list of ten of the most fuel-efficient diesel cars to date, featuring both popular models and some that are less commonly remembered.
All figures have been sourced from the manufacturers of the cars and converted to American miles per gallon.
1. Vauxhall/Opel Astra – 70.8 mpg
Similar to its smaller sibling in the lineup, the Corsa, the Vauxhall/Opel Astra is a long-standing model that remains a common sight on roads throughout the U.K. and Europe.
In 2019, a diesel version of the Astra achieved an impressive 70.8 American mpg during real-world testing far surpassing the efficiency figures previously claimed by its manufacturer.
This result was especially notable, as it’s quite rare for a car to outperform its official efficiency rating; typically, manufacturers present the most optimistic figures possible. As a result, this performance served as an unexpected but welcome boost in publicity for the Astra’s manufacturer.
Despite the positive attention, this didn’t lead to a significant increase in sales. As with the Corsa, a look at Vauxhall’s current lineup shows no diesel variants available only electric, hybrid, and gasoline-powered models remain.
At the time of writing, Opel, Vauxhall’s continental counterpart, still offers a 130-horsepower 1.5L diesel version of the Astra. However, it remains uncertain how long this diesel model will continue to be part of the brand’s lineup.
The backstory of the Vauxhall Astra offers insight into both Vauxhall as a company and the changing landscape of mass-market car production in the UK.
Originally launched in 1980 as the successor to the popular Viva, the Astra was a platform-engineered vehicle, marking a departure from its predecessor in several technical aspects.
While the Viva shared a floorpan and engines with its continental counterpart, the Opel Kadett, there was a distinct difference in the design and manufacturing process.
The Opel’s parts and panels were measured, cut, and stamped in metric millimetres, whereas the Viva was designed, measured, and constructed using imperial feet and inches.
“I like the Astra’s new look, particularly the way the high-level brake light at the rear echoes the shape of the roof aerial fin. It’s clearly been laboured over. Now we find out if Astra buyers are the kind who value, and will reward, that sort of effort,” said Matt Saunders, Road Test Editor.
The Astra Mk1 broke new ground by becoming the first compact Vauxhall to feature front-wheel drive and offer both petrol and diesel engine options.
It quickly gained popularity in the UK, continuing the sales success of the Viva. Over the next four decades, six more generations of the Astra rolled off Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port production lines, and it established itself as one of the UK’s top-selling cars.
Today, the Mk8 Astra is the first model to be fully designed and engineered by Stellantis, and it is also the first Astra that won’t be built in the UK.
Like the Vauxhall Corsa, the Astra now shares its architecture with models from the Peugeot and Citroën lineups, such as the Peugeot 308 and 408, and the Citroën C5 Aircross and Citroën C5 X.
Unlike previous models, the new Astra offers both electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains, aiming to stay competitive and eco-friendly in a fast-evolving market of rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Mazda 3, and Ford Focus.
With the addition of hybrid and electric options, the Astra’s UK lineup has become a bit more complex. The range includes the Astra Electric and the standard petrol and plug-in hybrid versions, all offered in a three-tier trim structure starting with the Design-spec car, followed by the GS Line (as tested), and the Ultimate.
To access certain features like IntelliLux adaptive headlights, a head-up display, wireless phone charging, or a panoramic sunroof, buyers must opt for a top-spec model. There is also the Astra GSe, which features a more powerful 221bhp plug-in hybrid powertrain, venturing into hot hatchback territory.
This model is available as an estate and is equipped similarly to the Ultimate trim. The Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer estate completes the lineup, priced £1,200 more than the hatchback variant. A diesel engine was initially offered but was discontinued less than a year after launch.
2. Kia Rio – 73.3 mpg
The modest 2011 Kia Rio was available in select markets with a diesel engine that, according to its manufacturer, could achieve an impressive 73.3 mpg, placing it among the most fuel-efficient diesel vehicles ever produced.
In a press release, Kia stated that at the time of the Rio’s debut, it featured “lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions than any other non electric car on sale in the world, including hybrids and eco specials from rival companies.”
This remarkable efficiency was made possible by a 1.1L three-cylinder engine that delivered a humble 74 horsepower.
In addition to the 1.1L option, Kia also offered the Rio with a larger 1.4L diesel engine, which still delivered a strong fuel economy of 58.8 American mpg.
This version provided 89 horsepower somewhat more capable than the 1.1L, though still trailing the 110-horsepower gas-powered variant.
In its most fuel-efficient form, the 1.1L diesel Rio accelerated from 0-60 mph in a rather slow 15.5 seconds and had a top speed of 100 mph.
While it wasn’t the quickest or most luxurious ride especially considering it was a 2011 Kia when it came to fuel economy alone, the Rio clearly outperformed much of its competition.
3. Renault Clio 1.5 dCi 90 ECO – 73.5 mpg
Manufacturer fuel efficiency claims are often best taken with a degree of skepticism, especially those measured under the notoriously optimistic NEDC testing regulations.
Nevertheless, the 2017 Renault Clio’s official rating of 88.3 U.K. mpg equivalent to 73.5 American mpg firmly places it among the most fuel-efficient vehicles of its time.
Achieving such figures in everyday driving might require a light touch on the accelerator, but the Clio’s efficiency credentials remain impressive.
Like many of the other ultra-efficient diesel models featured here, the Clio is a compact hatchback tailored for the European market, where diesel vehicles have traditionally been more popular.
This particular version of the diesel Clio turned out to be the final one, as Renault announced in 2021 that it would no longer invest in the development of new diesel engines.
This decision was largely driven by declining sales, which had consistently dropped each year following the 2015 VW Dieselgate scandal.
In response to shifting market demands, Renault confirmed it would redirect its focus toward electrification a strategy now beginning to pay off, as seen in the development of the upcoming Renault 5 EV.
Although it may not achieve the same sales volume as some of its competitors, the Renault Clio is well-known to most car buyers, thanks in part to the memorable 1991 advertising campaign featuring Nicole and her father, which helped promote the original Clio.
The fourth-generation Clio, which arrived in 2013, continued its popularity among small car buyers until it was replaced by an updated version in 2019.
This success can be attributed to its eye-catching exterior and interior design, such as a dashboard inspired by an aircraft’s wing, competitive pricing, and low running costs.
Among the engine options, the standout choices are Renault’s smooth 1.5-litre diesel and a turbocharged 0.9-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, both producing 88bhp.
There are also 1.2-litre petrol engines, with the turbocharged version producing 118bhp and the naturally aspirated version making 74bhp, though the latter is rather slow, and the former is relatively expensive.
If you prefer an automatic gearbox, you’ll need to choose either the 1.5-litre diesel or the turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol engine. For those seeking more performance, the hot Renault Sport version features a 1.6-litre turbo engine.
As for trim levels, the Clio offers five options for the standard models and two for the Clio RS. The entry-level Expression trim includes Bluetooth, USB connectivity, cruise control, front electric windows, and electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors as standard.
Upgrading to the Play trim adds 16-inch alloy wheels and air conditioning. The Dynamique Nav trims include keyless entry and start, auto lights and wipers, and Renault’s MediaNav infotainment system with a 7.0-inch touchscreen, DAB radio, and sat-nav, while the Dynamique S models include 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, LED headlights, climate control, and all-around electric windows.
The top-spec Signature Nav trim features TomTom-powered sat-nav, more speakers, front parking sensors, a reversing camera, and part-leather upholstery.
For those seeking more power, the RS is available in two versions: the RS 200 and the RS 220 Trophy. The Clio Renault Sport (RS), especially in its Trophy derivative, offers a truly sporty experience.
The RS 200 comes with RS-designed LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear diffuser, an F1-styled front blade, a sporty body kit, and a chassis setup with an electronic differential. Inside, you’ll find cruise control, air conditioning, sports seats with red stitching, and Renault’s MediaNav infotainment system.
While the Clio may not quite match the Ford Fiesta in terms of ride comfort or handling, it comes close, offering good grip and secure handling that’s borderline fun.
There is more body lean than some newer rivals, but this is compensated by a comfortable ride. It’s also an easy car to drive, despite a somewhat restricted over-the-shoulder view.
In terms of interior space, the Clio doesn’t offer as much as competitors like the Skoda Fabia or Kia Rio, but its boot is the same size as the Ford Fiesta’s. This means it can easily accommodate a couple of large suitcases, though families with small children might struggle with buggy storage.
The rear seats offer enough space for children, but taller adults will find both legroom and headroom tight. The front seats offer more space, though there are few practical storage options for items like phones.
2. Peugeot 208 BlueHDi – 78.4 mpg
French automakers have long competed for dominance in the diesel segment, but in 2015, Peugeot reached a milestone that seemed nearly unbeatable.
Under the supervision of French regulators, a standard 208 BlueHDi set a remarkable test record of 2.0L/100km, equivalent to 117.6 American mpg.
This achievement was accomplished under controlled conditions, with Peugeot using its own test drivers to carry out the trial. Even so, the car’s official fuel economy rating for everyday driving was still outstanding, coming in at 78.4 American mpg.
This version of the car, available through Peugeot dealerships as part of an optional package, featured a specially engineered rear spoiler and Michelin Energy Saver+ tires to enhance efficiency.
Unlike many of the other top-performing diesel vehicles on this list, the 208 BlueHDi came equipped with a relatively larger 1.6L engine, which was paired with a manual transmission.
Due to the many variables in measuring fuel efficiency from differences between real-world and official ratings to the calculation methods used it’s difficult to definitively name the most fuel-efficient mass-produced diesel car of all time.
Nevertheless, Peugeot’s compact hatchback presents a compelling case for the title. That said, there is one limited-production model that clearly surpasses it.
1. VW XL1 – 261 mpg
Somewhat ironically, considering that the Dieselgate scandal played a significant role in the decline of diesel engine popularity, Volkswagen still holds the record for producing the most fuel-efficient diesel-powered car ever made.
The VW XL1 was purpose-built to break records and later entered limited production, with just 200 units produced and sold at a retail price exceeding $100,000 each.
The vehicle was equipped with a plug-in hybrid diesel powertrain, featuring a two-cylinder TDI engine, and achieved a fuel consumption rating of 0.9 l/100 km in testing the equivalent of an astounding 261 mpg.
Key to this performance was the XL1’s aerodynamic design, lightweight construction, and an unusually low center of gravity.
However, these advantages would have meant little without the extremely efficient engine, which was developed specifically for the XL1 and never used in any other vehicle.
Unveiled in 2013, the XL1’s production run concluded just as the early signs of what would become Volkswagen’s most infamous scandal began to emerge.
Dieselgate drastically altered public perception of diesel vehicles and cast a long shadow over the brand’s fuel efficiency accomplishments. Unfortunately, this included the XL1, even though there was never any indication that its record-setting performance was anything but legitimate.
Most concept cars are designed as design studies—technological showcases of what might be possible but rarely make it to market in their original, exciting forms.
It’s only occasionally that a concept car emerges as a production model, fulfilling the promises of revolutionary styling and technological innovations.
The Volkswagen XL1 is one such rare example, introducing a new approach to hybrid drivetrains and vehicle construction while achieving near-magical efficiency figures and still being fun to drive.
The journey of the XL1 began in 2002 when then Volkswagen AG Chairman Ferdinand Piëch arrived at the company’s annual shareholder meeting in a prototype known only as “the 1-liter car.” Until that moment, the car had been kept under wraps.
The 1-liter car was a futuristic two-seater, powered by a single-cylinder, naturally aspirated, direct-injection diesel engine, which was mounted centrally in front of the rear axle and paired with a dual-clutch six-speed automatic transmission.
The 300cc engine produced just 8.5 horsepower, but when combined with the car’s incredibly low weight of 640 pounds and a drag coefficient of just 0.159, it was capable of traveling 100 kilometers on just one liter of fuel (to be precise, 0.99 liters).
With its technological breakthroughs, aerodynamic shape, tandem seating, and gullwing doors, the 1-liter car seemed like a vision of the future.
This future began to take shape in 2009 at the Frankfurt Motor Show with the introduction of the L1 concept. Slightly larger and heavier than its predecessor, the L1 was powered by a new 800cc, two-cylinder, direct-injection TDI® engine producing 24 hp.
It also featured a new hybrid-electric system that provided a 40 percent increase in torque and allowed for a few miles of electric-only driving. The L1 was capable of achieving 189 mpg, with a range of up to 416 miles.
Its design was more in line with the contemporary Volkswagen lineup, making it seem likely that a production model was in the works.
Two years later, at the 2011 Qatar Motor Show, Volkswagen unveiled the XL1, the most advanced version of the 1-liter car to date.
The XL1 featured a 800cc two-cylinder TDI engine generating 48 hp, while the electric motor’s output was upgraded from 14 to 27 hp, powered by a 5.5-kWh lithium battery.
This new powertrain allowed the XL1 to achieve 313 mpg on the European combined test cycle, despite an increase in weight to 1,752 pounds.
The XL1 could travel 31 miles on electricity alone. The most noticeable change, however, was on the exterior: the XL1 was wider and somewhat more conventional in its appearance than its predecessors, though it still stood out on the road.
The seats inside the XL1 were now staggered, positioned offset from each other within a central carbon-fiber monocoque.
The monocoque was produced using a more cost-effective resin transfer molding process, making it more feasible for mass production. Weighing just 197 pounds, the monocoque contributed significantly to the XL1’s overall low weight.
Additional weight-saving measures included magnesium wheels and an exceptionally low 0.19 drag coefficient, which enabled the XL1 to cruise at 60 mph using just over 8 horsepower.
Diesel Vehicles That Don’t Stretch a Gallon
Generally speaking, vehicles powered by internal combustion engines typically run on one of two main fuel types that most people are familiar with: gasoline, which is the most widely used in North America, and diesel.
While diesel is less frequently seen in light-duty passenger vehicles and is more commonly associated with pickup trucks in the United States, it enjoys far greater popularity in Europe.
That’s not to say North America hasn’t had its share of impressive diesel offerings in fact, during the 2000s, diesel was widely viewed as the future of internal combustion vehicles, and it’s easy to understand why.
Diesel engines operate without spark plugs, instead relying on compression to ignite the fuel. Although they can sound a bit clattery, these engines are known for producing substantial low-end torque, making them ideal for applications that demand strong pulling power.
They also tend to offer significantly better fuel economy than their gasoline counterparts and were once believed to emit less carbon dioxide at least until a certain automaker was famously caught cheating.
Over time, the market has seen its fair share of standout diesel engines, as well as a number that ultimately fell short of expectations.
5. Volkswagen Passat 2.5 V6 TDI
While Volkswagen is best known for its lineup of reliable four-cylinder diesel engines, the brand understood that four cylinders simply wouldn’t suffice in the luxury car segment.
Using the same fundamental architecture as the 2.0 TDI mentioned earlier, VW developed the 2.5 V6 TDI. This engine was notably used in the C5-generation Audi A6 and, curiously enough, also found its way into the original Škoda Superb.
The engine delivered respectable torque and offered reasonable fuel economy for a V6, but it was plagued with reliability issues, most notably frequent injector pump failures.
Without consistent and proper maintenance, camshaft wear would become excessive, creating even more problems down the line. Fortunately, the later 3.0 TDI would go on to significantly improve upon its shortcomings.
The Volkswagen Passat B5.5 Variant V6 2.5 TDI 163HP 6-Speed is a five-door estate model that belongs to the Passat B5.5 generation. It features a V6 engine with a displacement of 2496 cm³, producing 163 PS (161 HP or 120 kW) at 4000 rpm, and a maximum torque of 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) at 1500 rpm.
This front-wheel-drive vehicle is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and a dry single-disc clutch. The engine’s aspiration is turbocharged with an intercooler, and the compression ratio is 19.
The fuel consumption of the vehicle is 7 L/100 km (40 MPG UK, 34 MPG US) on a combined cycle, with open-road consumption of 5.4 L/100 km (52 MPG UK, 44 MPG US), and city consumption reaching 9.9 L/100 km (29 MPG UK, 24 MPG US).
The car has a range of 885 km (550 miles) and a fuel tank capacity of 62 L (16.4 US gallons or 13.6 UK gallons).
In terms of performance, the Passat B5.5 Variant reaches a top speed of 222 km/h (138 mph) and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 9.3 seconds.
Both the front and rear axles measure 151.5 cm (59.65 inches), and the vehicle has an aerodynamic drag coefficient of 0.32. With a curb weight of 1583 kg (3490 lbs), the Passat B5.5 Variant has a weight-to-power ratio of 9.7 kg/hp.
Inside, the vehicle offers seating for five, with a seat distribution of 2+3, and a trunk capacity of 495 L (17.5 cu-ft). The first-row trunk space expands to 1600 L (56.5 cu-ft).
Regarding the braking system, it features vented discs on the front with dimensions of 312 mm (12.28 inches) and regular discs on the rear measuring 245 mm (9.65 inches). The vehicle’s tires are 205/55 R16, with a rim width of 7.0 inches for both the front and rear wheels.
Steering is provided by a rack and pinion system, while the front suspension uses MacPherson struts with coil springs, and the rear suspension is equipped with coil springs and a torsion bar.
4. Opel Astra G – Isuzu Circle L (1.7 CDTI)
The oddly named Circle L engine was originally engineered by Isuzu before Opel acquired the rights to incorporate it into their vehicle lineup. Throughout the 2000s, this engine was widely used in various Opel models such as the Astra, Meriva, and Corsa.
If you find yourself in a situation where you must purchase an Opel from this era (if possible, don’t), this is one engine you’ll want to steer clear of.
Not only was it rough-sounding and unrefined, but it was also prone to oil pump leaks. In the worst-case scenario, leaking oil could find its way onto the timing belt, leading to belt failure and a vehicle that’s effectively reduced to a paperweight.
In 1991, Opel introduced the Astra F as the successor to the Opel Kadett, marking the beginning of a new era in the company’s success in the compact car segment. The Astra F became an overwhelming bestseller and remains the most-produced Opel model of all time.
The successor, launched in 1998, had all the right elements to build on the success of its predecessor. The Opel Astra G debuted with several innovations, including being the first Opel vehicle to feature a fully galvanized body.
Additionally, the new transparent H7 headlights provided 30 percent higher light output, while the DSA (Dynamic Safety Action) chassis enhanced active driving safety. Customers were also offered a wide selection of body variants.
Furthermore, the Astra G showcased its performance capabilities with the introduction of the Astra OPC and the Astra V8 Coupé, both of which competed in the German Touring Car Masters and the 24-hour race at Nürburgring.
The Astra G shares many similarities with the latest generation Astra, marking yet another significant chapter in Opel’s compact class success.
The current Astra impresses not only with its bold and distinctive design, which includes the characteristic Opel Vizor brand face, but also with its fully digital, user-friendly Pure Panel Cockpit.
Winner of the “Golden Steering Wheel 2022” award, the new Astra is electrified for the first time, offering powerful plug-in hybrid variants, with the Opel Astra Electric arriving soon.
The locally emission-free, top-of-the-line Opel Astra GSe (with fuel consumption according to WLTP: 1.2-1.1 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 26-25 g/km, each combined) demonstrates how dynamic driving enjoyment can be paired with environmental responsibility.
3. Subaru Outback – Subaru EE20 (2.0D Boxer Diesel)
In 2007, Subaru made history by launching the world’s first diesel-powered boxer engine ever fitted to a production vehicle.
The pioneering EE20 made its debut in the BP Legacy and Outback models, and soon after, it was offered in the Impreza hatchback as well.
While many of the early issues with the EE20 were eventually addressed, the initial model years are best approached with caution.
Once again, injector failures were a common issue, along with excessive soot buildup in the oil. In addition to being somewhat fault-prone, the Boxer Diesel’s horizontally opposed layout made it especially difficult to service.
Fortunately, with the rollout of the Euro V emissions standard in the early 2010s, Subaru managed to resolve many of these issues.
2. BMW E87 – BMW N47D20 (18d / 20d)
BMW’s reputation for reliability has always been something of a mixed bag, and that’s putting it lightly. Even some of the marque’s more dependable engines have been known to suffer from occasional problems.
While the brand has produced a number of impressive diesel engines for the European market, the N47D20 didn’t earn much praise.In terms of sales, the engine was a success.
In terms of dependability, not so much.The N47D20 is notoriously regarded as one of BMW’s most problematic diesel powerplants, and it all comes down to one key flaw: its timing chain.
The component is notoriously fragile akin to a napkin dunked in water and prone to failure. And when the timing chain fails, the result is almost always a stranded owner and a very expensive repair bill.
BMW took a significant risk when it launched the first generation of the 1 Series in 2004, but the sales results proved successful. Building on that success, the company unveiled a refreshed version of the car in March 2007 at the Geneva Motor Show.
After two generations of the 3 Series Compact, BMW recognized that customers wouldn’t be satisfied with a downsized version of an existing vehicle built on an older platform.
To meet customer demands, the automaker started with a fresh design and created the 1 Series, known by its factory code E87 for the five-door version.
Sales soared, and within just three years, the new model had surpassed the total sales of the 3 Series Compact, which had been in production for seven years. As demand grew, BMW expanded the lineup, adding a three-door version and the facelifted five-door 1 Series.
There were subtle differences between the 2007 BMW 1 Series five-door and the pre-facelift version of the car. A keen observer could spot these changes on the front grille, which now featured rounded upper outer corners instead of the sharper ones from the previous model.
Additionally, the bumper had a new apron with a broader air intake extending across the width of the car, incorporating rectangular fog lamps.
The 2004 model had a shorter lower air intake with rounded edges and round fog lamps on each side. The refreshed version also introduced a more aggressive styling inspired by the BMW M3, including a tall, wide center air intake and angular side scoops.
From the side, the profiles of the 2004 1 Series and the 2007 facelift appeared similar. However, the creased line that connected the front fenders to the taillights was now sharper, giving the car a more sporty appearance.
Although the five-door version didn’t appear particularly dynamic, it struck a perfect balance between a hot hatch and a vehicle capable of comfortably carrying four people. At the rear, the tailgate featured a forward-tilted windshield and a roof spoiler at the top.
The taillights were redesigned with a similar shape to the previous version but now included two smaller clear lenses, replacing the single thick lens used before. The new, smoother bumper also made the car appear wider.
Inside, the 2007 BMW 1 Series (E87) featured a more refined interior with upgraded materials for the dashboard and trim. Like the earlier model, it was available with leather-wrapped sports seats, while lower trims came with bucket seats that had mild bolstering and cloth upholstery.
On top of the dashboard, BMW offered an option for a swiveling screen for the iDrive infotainment system, which could be controlled by a rotary dial located on the center console between the front seats.
Although the rear seats still had limited legroom and the tall transmission tunnel made seating three adults in the back uncomfortable, the split-folding rear seats allowed for expanded trunk space when needed.
1. Fiat 500 – 1.3 Multijet
Fiat’s Multijet diesel engines have been installed in an impressively wide array of vehicles, ranging from Fiats and Alfa Romeos to Opel/Vauxhall models and even some Saabs.
Even Cadillac got involved, offering a Multijet in its European-market BLS. The 1.3 Multijet, in particular, ended up powering everything from the Fiat Punto and Lancia Musa to the Opel Corsa and many more.
However, trusting a Fiat-built powertrain to be rock-solid was always something of a gamble.
True to form, the 1.3 Multijet is plagued with issues, most notably excessive oil consumption with some versions stretching oil change intervals to an alarming 18,000 miles and yet again, a highly unreliable timing chain.
Since its reintroduction in 2008, the modern Fiat 500 has become a major success. With its charming design, distinct Italian flair, and attractive pricing, it has won over both new and used car buyers alike.
Throughout its extended production run, the standard Fiat 500 has undergone numerous updates and refinements, with several variants being added to the lineup.
The current version of the standard model is called the 500 Hybrid. For those who enjoy open-air driving, there’s the soft-top cabriolet version known as the 500 Cabrio. Additionally, Fiat now offers a fully electric model, the 500 Electric.
The Fiat 500 stands out with its distinctive design inside and out, offering a unique and stylish appearance that sets it apart from rivals. It’s nimble in urban environments and remains affordable to own and operate. However, it does come with trade-offs.
The driving dynamics are somewhat imprecise, practicality is limited, and the ride can feel unsettled. Reliability is also a mixed bag, with some owners reporting issues.
Despite its shortcomings, it would be unfair to dismiss the 500 as simply outdated. Its retro-inspired appearance, which draws from the original models of the late 1950s and 1960s, lends it a sense of timeless appeal.
Moreover, the ongoing tweaks have been meaningful. A particularly notable update came in 2016, introducing a more defined front end and an upgraded infotainment system, among other enhancements.