You'll Have Time to Grow a Beard Before Fiat's New Manual Hybrid Reaches 60 | Carscoops

      The resurrected combustion 500 produces only 64 hp, which is 5 hp less than the previous hybrid model.

      Thirteen hours ago,

      by Chris Chilton

      Fiat has disclosed the complete technical specifications for its new 500 Hybrid.

      The hatchback reaches 62 mph in 16.2 seconds, while the convertible takes 17.3 seconds.

      There are three available trims: the basic Pop, the Icon, and the top-tier La Prima.

      Fiat showed images of the new 500 Hybrid last summer, but it has only now released the mechanical specifics, and we believe we understand the delay. The figures indicate that not only is the exterior design influenced by the previous century, but the performance is as well.

      You may remember that Fiat decided to discontinue the last combustion 500 in Europe in 2024 rather than invest in upgrades to comply with new EU regulations.

      In related news, Fiat attempted to position the electric 500e as a suitable replacement, but it turned out to be a sales failure, prompting the manufacturer to adapt the EV for a hybrid powertrain.

      How Slow Is It?

      Under the hood is a mild-hybrid 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, which is essentially the same as the one in the previous model, although it appears to have lost some power in the process.

      Instead of 69 hp (70 PS), the engine now delivers 64 hp (65 PS) and 68 lb-ft (92 Nm) of torque, which is transmitted to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission.

      It certainly isn't an Abarth. The hatchback version accelerates from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 16.2 seconds, while the Cabrio, which is 44 lb (22 kg) heavier, requires 17.3 seconds.

      These figures are disappointing on their own, but they become even less impressive considering that Fiat had previously quoted 13.8 seconds for the last hybrid. Additionally, the top speed of the new model has decreased from 104 mph (167 km/h) to as low as 93 mph (150 km/h) for some variants.

      Trim Levels and Body Styles

      On the brighter side, the new 500 appears much more refined due to the sleeker body and improved interior quality from the electric 500e, which can reach 62 mph in half the time, if you were curious.

      We've noted the difference between the hatch and Cabrio versions, but the fixed-roof model itself is available in two options: a standard two-door hatch or a 3+1 version with an extra rear door on the passenger side.

      We are still awaiting Fiat to release pricing and details on standard equipment, but we know that the three-trim range begins with the base Pop, progresses to the mid-range Icon with additional onboard technology, and culminates with the stylish and luxury-focused La Prima.