It’s hard to think any automaker can do wrong in the small crossover segment. Which should be good news for the 2016 Fiat 500X and that brand’s attempt to break into the mainstream American market.
Consumer Reports‘ Tom Mutchler takes a quick drive in the 500X and brings up some points about Fiat’s offerings up until now.
The 500 hatchback is good for city dwellers and those who don’t need much space. The 500L may have been the answer for those who outgrew the little Fiat, but its left-field looks and bad launch caught Fiat flat-footed. Now something more conventional with available all-wheel drive should allow Fiat to win the hearts of thousands of U.S. buyers.
CR‘s not so sure that the Fiat can, and I’m not sure why. The 500X follows the formula laid out by the Nissan Juke, Honda HR-V and the corporate cousin Jeep Renegade – it’s a supermini that’s higher off the ground and more stylistically expressive.
Sure, Fiat doesn’t have the dealer network or name recognition in crossovers as these other brands do. I haven’t driven the 500X yet, but it seems like the right product at the right time. Hey, this small crossover thing has been working really well for Buick and their Encore.
Few impressions are laid out in the first drive, but what do you think of the 500X as it’s about to hit showrooms?