Fiat's Gas Revival Introduces a Manual Transmission to a Vehicle Originally Designed Exclusively for Electric Power | Carscoops

      Production of the hybrid 500 is set to commence in November on a specialized line at Fiat’s Mirafiori factory in Turin.

      Fiat’s 500 Hybrid serves as a revamped version of its fully electric counterpart.

      This city car is equipped with a mild-hybrid 1.0-liter engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission.

      The exterior changes are minimal, featuring a small front grille and a concealed exhaust.

      Fiat is ready to bring back a familiar design with a new twist, previewing the 500 Hybrid before its production begins in November at the Mirafiori plant in Italy. This iteration replaces the electric motor with a mild-hybrid engine, exclusively matched with a six-speed manual transmission.

      Initially launched in 2020 as a fully electric vehicle, the latest Fiat 500 is now adjusting to shifts in market demand. Even though Fiat initially marketed the new 500 as an EV, ongoing interest in hybrid vehicles has prompted the brand to modify its approach. A newly updated version is set to fill the void just months after the previous generation ceased production.

      A Recognizable Design with Minor Alterations

      At first glance, the 500 Hybrid maintains the overall design of the 500e. The visual distinctions are subtle, including a small front grille, a refreshed emblem on the tailgate, and an exhaust tip integrated below the rear bumper. Customers can select from three body styles: a traditional hatchback, a 3+1 version, or a convertible, just like the electric variant.

      Under the hood lies the familiar 1.0-liter FireFly engine, complemented by a 12-volt mild-hybrid system intended to enhance efficiency. Although Fiat has yet to disclose complete specifications, this engine has powered previous models, such as the last-generation 500 and the Pandina, producing 69 hp (52 kW / 70 PS). Power is directed to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission, marking the initial manual option for the current-generation 500.

      Images from the Mirafiori plant in Turin reveal the pre-production assembly line, where the EV battery pack has been replaced by a conventional fuel tank. Fiat engineers have successfully integrated the compact hybrid powertrain between the front wheels without making major structural modifications, thereby keeping development costs manageable.

      Inside, there are not many changes compared to the electric model. The manual shifter is now positioned in an extended center console, but the vibrant dashboard, 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and 7-inch circular digital cluster remain unchanged.

      Production Schedule and Pricing

      Fiat announced the 500 Hybrid on July 7, coinciding with the anniversary of the original 500's launch. Regular production will start in November, with an expected output of 5,000 units by year-end. Once operating at full capacity, the Mirafiori plant aims to produce up to 100,000 units each year.

      Pricing is anticipated to begin at €17,000 (approximately $20,000), making it considerably cheaper than the all-electric variant, even after applicable incentives.

      Fiat CEO Olivier Francois stated, “Bringing the 500 Hybrid back to Mirafiori is a promise fulfilled—a victory fueled by a dedicated team that chose to focus on the customer and the future. This factory is not just a production site; it’s FIAT’s home, the vital center of a narrative that started in 1957 with Dante Giacosa and continues as a center of Stellantis innovation in Europe.”

      He also hinted at a new limited-edition version of the model, set to launch later this year, saying, “In November, we’ll commemorate this milestone with the special edition ‘500 Torino’, honoring the city, its workforce, and our heritage. Turin symbolizes FIAT, and FIAT symbolizes Turin. Hence, the official launch will take place here, in our city.”