Fiat at the 2014 Paris International Motor Show

• The Fiat 500X débuts in its international preview, the new compact crossover in the 500 family that marks the evolution of the brand and technology through the development in its DNA.
• A beauty with character, the new car explores a brand-new dimension of being 500, where a mature, elegant, all-Italian style "clothes" - like haute couture - the substance of a car that is comfortable, high-performance and always in touch with the world.
• Available in two different versions with two different souls - one more "metropolitan" and the other ideal for leisure - equipped with efficient diesel and petrol engines, three types of transmission - manual, 9-speed automatic or twin-clutch 6-speed automatic - and with front-wheel drive, four-wheel drive or front-wheel drive with Traction Plus configurations.
• The new Fiat 500X will go on sale in more than 100 countries worldwide, including the United States.
• Paris sees the début of the "500 Couture", the next frontier in exclusive customisation which introduces the new "500 Ron Arad Edition" and the "500 Comics", "500 Camouflage" and "500 Jeans" showcars, utterly captivating examples characterised by Italian craftsmanship to make them unique.
• Created in collaboration with the famous designer, the "500 Ron Arad Edition" pays homage to the legendary 1957 Fiat 500, the silhouette of which is drawn on the bodywork to further enhance the vintage soul of the Fiat model.
• Ron Arad also puts his name to the stand at Paris and the reveal dedicated to the new Fiat 500X. A particular feature of the display area is an "X" where the four distinctive elements of the 500's DNA converge: "Heritage", a tribute to the iconic nature of the 1957 Fiat 500; the "Pop Art" of the Sixties, with the colours and designs of the period; the "Dolce Vita", the all-Italian lifestyle embodied by the 500; and "Fashion", highlighting the relationship between the car that symbolises Fiat and one of the sectors where Italian excellence makes its presence felt worldwide.
• There are also the other leading lights of the 500 family on the stand - 500L Trekking, 500L Beats Edition^TM and 500 MY 2014 Cult models - cars which are very different in terms of vocation and character, but which have the same roots in common: the iconic Fiat 500.

 

World preview of the new Fiat 500X crossover

The Fiat 500X débuts at the Paris Motor Show, the new compact crossover in the 500 family that marks the evolution of the brand and technology through the development in its DNA. 

 

A beauty with character, the new car explores a brand-new dimension of being 500, where a mature, elegant, all-Italian style “clothes” – like haute couture – the substance of a car that is comfortable, high-performance and always in touch with the world: that’s the X side of beauty, and that’s the soul of the Fiat 500X.

 

Heir to the Fiat 500 of 1957 – the stylistic reference of the rounded lights and the classic logo with chrome-plated bonnet trim is clear – the new Fiat crossover extends the 500 family, comprising the 500, 500C, 500L, 500L Trekking and 500L Living models: cars which are very different in terms of vocation and character, but which have the same roots in common: the iconic Fiat 500.

 

Built in the updated SATA plant in Melfi (Potenza) and sold on more than 100 countries worldwide including the United States, the new Fiat 500X will be available in two different versions with two different souls – one more “metropolitan” and the other ideal for leisure  – equipped with efficient diesel and petrol engines, three types of transmission – manual, 9-speed automatic or twin-clutch 6-speed automatic – and with front-wheel drive, four-wheel drive or front-wheel drive with Traction Plus configurations.

 

500X “goes beyond” current customer targets

The Fiat 500X is a crossover not only in its very nature, but also because it is of interest to many different types of customer in terms of different sexes, ages, needs and tastes. In this sense, the "X" symbol represents the exponential element, a crossroads for segments that vary greatly among themselves, each inhabited by the young and the mature, lovers of beauty and connoisseurs of character. They are dynamic, with an active social life and they cultivate different passions and interests. What they have in common, however, is the desire to enjoy a satisfying driving experience and express their own personality through a distinctive style. Today they all find a clear, exhaustive answer: Fiat 500X.

 

Two versions are available: the first, characterised by distinctive, elegant style details, is sure to win over young, dynamic and metropolitan customers. The second version, instead, has a decidedly more off-road look and equipment which make it the ideal solution for lovers of leisure and outdoor activities who don’t want to give up the unique style of the Fiat 500. 

 

Style and dimensions

Designed by the Centro Stile Fiat, the new 500X represents a new dimension of the unmistakable 500 where its iconic style and the modern concept of the crossover collide, with the addition of the respectable off-road capability ensured by the version most suitable for an outdoor lifestyle.

 

With a big personality and distinctively Italian design, the new car is characterised by flexibility, rationality and quality firmly embedded in its compact dimensions, in the ample interior space and the choice of premium materials and fabrics, as well as the most sophisticated technology in the service of safety, comfort and well-being on board.

 

The solid, robust appearance of the car finds its perfect stylistic counterpart in the harmonious line, which emerges in dimensions ideal for customers looking for comfort space and the equipment typical of compact saloons. At the same time, the 500X also gives a nod to those who need to tackle urban traffic every day, thanks to its modest dimensions: it’s 4.25 metres long (2 cm more for the version suited for leisure), 1.8 metres wide and 1.60 metres in height (with roof bars or 4-wheel drive the figures are 161 and 162 cm respectively).

 

Compact outside, welcoming inside: a large, protective environment with extensive use of fine materials, high-quality finishes and practical storage compartments. A comfortable passenger compartment which is unmistakably Made in Italy and offered in no fewer than seven interior configurations, through matching of various types of fabric, leather and colours. This is all made even more functional through the many seat adjustment possibilities and the spacious luggage compartment (350 litres).

 

Finally, the customer can chose from 12 different liveries that emphasises the sensual form of the Fiat 500X, further enhanced by the eight different designs for the 16-, 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels

 

Engine versions

The new Fiat 500X offers, according to the EMEA market, various combinations of engine, gearbox and transmission to meet all usage requirements, always with respect for nature and maximum efficiency in terms of performance, consumption and emissions.

 

At launch, the engine line-up will feature the 140 HP 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II (with front-wheel drive and 6-speed manual gearbox), the 120 HP 1.6 MultiJet II (also with front-wheel drive and 6-speed manual gearbox) and the 140 HP 2.0 MultiJet II (with 9-speed automatic transmission and 4-wheel drive).

 

The range will later be completed by the 110 HP 1.6 “E-torQ” (5-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive), the 170 HP 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II (9-speed automatic transmission and 4-wheel drive) and the powerful 184 HP Tigershark 2.4 (9-speed automatic transmission and 4-wheel drive).

 

The 140 HP 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II will also be available with front-wheel drive and dual clutch 6-speed automatic transmission. More in detail, the innovative dual clutch sequential automatic transmission secures both more driving comfort and a sportier feel than a traditional automatic transmission, and greater efficiency and lower fuel consumption.  Conceptually, the device consists of two transmissions in parallel which allow extraordinarily rapid shifts by releasing one clutch and engaging the other one simultaneously.

 

Also available will be the following turbodiesels: the 95 HP 1.3 MultiJet II (with 5-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive) and the 140 HP 2.0 MultiJet II (with 6-speed manual and 4-wheel drive).

 

Nine-speed automatic transmission

The 500X crossover is the first Fiat car to offer a nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, in combination with the 170 HP 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II petrol engine and the 140 HP 2.0 MultiJet II turbodiesel, offers many advantages, including great capacity for pick-up and smooth delivery of power. With electronic control, the new nine-speed automatic transmission features "shift-on-the-fly" mapping, with the possibility of switching to manual-sequential mode.

 

4WD and rear axle disconnection system

The new Fiat 500X is available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations. A particular feature of the new Fiat crossover’s four-wheel drive is the adoption of a rear axle disconnection system that permits a reduction in energy wasted through drag when four-wheel drive operation is not required, thus ensuring greater efficiency in terms of consumption. It is the only car in the segment to offer it, together with the Jeep Renegade; the rear-axle disconnect seamlessly switches between two- and four-wheel drive for full-time torque management without requiring input from the driver.

 

"Drive Mood Selector" and Traction Plus system

The new 500X offers the " Drive Mood Selector ", which acts on engine, brakes, steering and gearbox/transmission, permitting three different car behaviours, based on the driving style most appropriate to the situation or road surface conditions: Auto (for the best in terms of comfort, consumption and CO₂ emissions), Sport (for a drive that favours performance) and All weather (maximum safety even in low grip conditions).
On the versions more suitable for leisure, All weather mode is replaced by the “Traction” function, which, in the case of the four-wheel drive version, speeds up the transmission of torque to the rear axle. On the versions with front-wheel drive, on the other hand, it activates the “Traction Plus” control system, which on one hand improves grip on rough, slippery terrain, and on the other costs less and has lower emissions than a conventional four-wheel drive, proving more efficient in light, everyday off-road use.

 

Handling and safety

Equipped with MacPherson suspension at the rear, the Fiat 500X ensures the right balance of handling and comfort. What’s more, to guarantee protection of occupant, the new Fiat crossover combines a body designed according to the most modern criteria with active and passive safety content that ensures excellent performance.

As standard on the entire range is some important content, such as six airbags (front, window bags and side bags), front headlights with daytime running light function and fog lights with cornering function, in addition to the sophisticated ESC (Electronic Stability Control). In addition, depending on the version and market, the advanced Lane Assist (lane departure warning system) and Blind Spot Assist (lane change assistance system to get around blind spots) devices are available as standard or on request. On request, it is also possible to equip your 500X with the new ParkView rear camera for reversing and the "Brake Control" (assisted braking system).

 

Infotainment

In terms of comfort and infotainment equipment, the Fiat 500X stands out in its category thanks to the sophisticated Uconnect™ systems with 5" or 6.5" touchscreens. Both versions come complete with Bluetooth interface, Aux-in connector, USB port, SD port and voice commands. Additionally, the Uconnect 5’’ Radio Nav  device offers TomTom 2.5D navigation while the Uconnect 6.5" Radio Nav features satellite navigation with 3D maps, progressive route guidance and ‘One Shot Voice Destination Entry’ to enter addresses with voice commands.

 

Using the colour touchscreen, the system lets you access all the main functions: from the analogue and digital radio (DAB) through to all the main multimedia sources (media player, iPod, iPhone, smartphone) which can be connected via USB port or Aux-in socket or Bluetooth audio streaming. This can all be managed directly using the steering wheel controls in order not to look away from the road or take your hands off the wheel.

 

The new Uconnect ™ Live system also allows customers – through integration with their smartphones – to use many apps on the on-board system so that they can always be in contact with their friends on Facebook and Twitter; listen to millions of music tracks on Deezer andover 100,000 real radio stations with TuneIn ; get real-time news updates from Reuters and information on the traffic, speed cameras, autovelox and weather thanks to TomTom Live services.

 

Finally, the Fiat 500X offers "eco:Drive™", which permits a saving of up to 16% in fuel costs and reduced CO₂ emissions, in addition to the "my:Car™" service, which helps with maintenance and dealing with emergencies with an interactive user manual.

 

In terms of audio, the exclusive Beats Hi-Fi system is available on request. Developed in collaboration with Beats by Dr. Dre and launched on the 500L model, it revolutionises the way music can be experienced inside the new Fiat 500X.

 

“500 Couture”: Fiat presents the next frontier of exclusive customisation 

Fiat 500 makes headlines once more, as befits an authentic Italian style icon, this time by presenting “500 Couture”, the next frontier of exclusive customisation at the Paris Motor Show, of which the exclusive “500 Ron Arad Edition” is an example. Distinguished by special quintessentially Italian craftsmanship, the bodywork is customised with a specific design like a garment “sewn” onto the car and making it unique.

 

The “500 Comics”, “500 Camouflage” and “500 Jeans”,  showcars, three different expressions of the “500 Couture” concept, inspired by the world of fashion and created to enhance the pop and trendy nature in the 500's DNA, will also be on display in Paris. 

 

Versatile, creative and perfectly at ease in cities, the iconic Fiat 500 boasts a natural flair for customisation. This is the context of the new “500 Ron Arad Edition”, the latest take on the concept of Italian high-end tailoring for customers who want to express their personality with a uniquely distinctive style.  In recent years, customisation has become paramount for the automotive world where there is a great variety of choice and where customers are getting more and more careful and selective. Thus, we are now faced with a growing selection of cars and a change in the attitude of customers, who in their purchasing decisions now show a strong desire for distinction: every customer wants to feel unique and assert their own personality with their car. There is only one answer to this legitimate demand for extreme customisation: the Fiat 500.  

 

The “500 Ron Arad Edition” celebrates the meeting between an iconic car and an internationally celebrated designer. In particular, the silhouette  of the legendary 1957 Fiat 500 – informally known as 'Cinquino' by enthusiasts – is drawn on the sides of the car using quintessentially Italian craftsmanship. It was precisely the founder of the current 500 family that Ron Arad chose as the central figure in the “Reverse” exhibition hosted from December 2013 to March 2014 in the Pinacoteca Agnelli, Turin, the exhibition area designed by Renzo Piano at the 4th floor of the Lingotto, at the level of the track where Fiat cars including the 500 were once tested.

 

The “500 Ron Arad Edition” is packed with great features, including a glass sunroof, chrome-plated accents, black interiors, superb black Poltrona Frau leather seats with ivory trim, 7” TFT instrument panel, Blue&Me, leather steering wheel with radio controls, automatic climate control system, fog lights, 16" alloy rims, black metallic paintwork and white mirror caps with the silhouette of the legendary 500 drawn on the side panels.

 

To be sold starting from November on the major markets across Europe, the “500 Ron Arad Edition” is a collector's item and Fiat has decided to reserve a special service to enthusiasts who will buy it. The car will be delivered directly to the new owner's home together with an accurate 1:18 scale model in a showcase.

 

The same exclusivity is expressed by the other showcars on display in Paris, all characterised by quintessential Italian craftsmanship to represent different interpretations of the “500 Couture” concept. In detail, the ”500 Comics”  pays homage to the pop nature of the iconic 500,  and flaunts a beguiling two-tone livery (pastel ochre yellow/metallic black) embellished by craftsmanship resulting in “stitching” that traces out the stylish lines. The a “500 Camouflage” instead is inspired by the trendy nature in the 500's DNA and plays on a particular grey/green camouflage pattern, highlighted by the fluorescent yellow mirror covers.  The line-up is completed by the “500 Jeans”, also inspired by the world of fashion of 500, which stands out for its blue livery and typical denim stitching, reproduced for the first time ever also on the dashboard.

 

The exclusive “500 Ron Arad Edition” – like the other three showcars on display at the Motor Show – are expressions of the multifarious spirit of the iconic Fiat which is perfectly at ease also in the world of Art and Design.  Not by chance, the “500 Ron Arad Edition” and the “500 Comics” were the stars of a special event staged at the MotorVillage Rond-Point des Champs Elysées for Fashion Week and a few days ahead of the opening of the Motor Show.

 

The Fiat Stand 

The Fiat 500X was unveiled on the first international press day through a captivating reveal conceived and produced by Fiat together with Ron Arad, one of the world’s most influential designers who, over the last 30 years has made a pivotal contribution to the art, design and architecture worlds.

 

Arad also put his name to the stand at Paris which, drawing inspiration from the “X” symbol of the new car, underscores the strong sense of belonging to the 500 family to which all the cars on display belong. In particular, standing out on the backdrop to the display area is a large “painting” that depicts the four distinctive elements in the 500’s DNA: “Heritage”, a tribute to the iconic nature of the 1957 Fiat 500; the “Pop Art” of the sixties, with the colours and designs of the period; the “Dolce Vita”, the all-Italian lifestyle embodied by the 500; and “Fashion”, highlighting the relationship between the car that symbolises Fiat and one of the sectors where Italian excellence makes its presence felt worldwide.

 

At the centre of the stand is the new Fiat crossover with four examples, positioned at the ends of a symbolic X, which converge on a new dimension of being 500: it’s the X side of beauty, the soul of the Fiat 500X. Moreover, the new car is a beauty and has character, demonstrated by a mature, elegant, all-Italian style that “clothes” – like haute couture – the substance of a car that is comfortable, high-performance and always in touch with the world. In detail, on display are two examples of the 500X most suitable for leisure – one with white livery and the other three-layer red – both equipped with four-wheel drive, 140 HP 2.0 MultiJet turbodiesel and 9-speed automatic transmission. Another two 500Xs on the other side: the first Matt Bronze and equipped with 140 HP 1.4 MultiAir engine and front-wheel drive, the second equipped with 120 HP 1.6 MultiJet, glass roof and grey livery.

 

The spotlight will also be trained on the exclusive “500 Ron Arad Edition” and the other three Fiat 500 showcars characterised by special, quintessentially Italian craftsmanship which represent the various possible expressions of the “500 Couture” concept.

 

Visitors to the show can also admire the other leading lights in the 500 family, cars which are very different in terms of vocation and character, but which have the same roots in common: the iconic Fiat 500. In particular, taking to the French catwalk are two examples of the 500L Trekking, one equipped with the 105 HP 1.6 MultiJet II and Gelato White livery with glass roof, the other with the 120 HP 1.6 MultiJet II two-tone bodywork (Sorrento Yellow body and Gelato White roof). The model is a development of the 500 family with two perfectly fused souls which love to play off one another every day: one metropolitan, for breezing through the city, and one more adventurous, perfect for those little weekend emotions that make life worth living. 

 

There’s also the Fiat 500L Beats Edition™, the special series jointly created with Beats by Dr. Dre, the brand that in the wake of its success in the USA is rapidly establishing itself in Europe.  Characterised by a two-tone livery in matt Maestro Grey/matt Cinema Black and equipped with the 120 HP 1.4 T-Jet, the car on show allows the public to experience the extraordinary sensations of the BeatsAudio^TM system, which boasts a total power of 520 watts and an 8-channel amplifier with DSP, incorporating an advanced equalisation algorithm. The Fiat 500L Beats Edition™ is the perfect combination of technology and metropolitan look.

 

The 500L model display is completed with the Pop star 1.6 MJet 105 HP with an exclusive, new livery and dashboard in the same shade.

 

Finally, the stand displays some examples of the iconic 500 – cabrio and saloon versions – revamped with the introduction of important new product features in terms of style and technological content. The result is the Fiat 500 Model Year 2014 with three new body colours – Lattementa Green, three-layer Ghiaccio White and Italia Blue, the latter exclusive to the S trim level – and three new alloy wheels, 15" or 16", as standard depending on the trim level. The interior too is new, in fabric or leather, with specific combinations for each version.

 

Standing out among the major new features in terms of equipment is the innovative instrument panel with 7'' TFT display, developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli, the international group which operates in the area of designing and manufacturing high-tech systems and components for vehicles. Specifically, the device provides the driver with all the information needed and demonstrates, once more, the “trend-setting” spirit of this model, an icon that’s always one step ahead.

 

But the place of honour in the 2014 range is reserved for the Fiat 500 Cult , the top-of-the-range version which encapsulates the best of 2014’s new features, offering an exclusive level of style – with Glossy Black details – the most innovative technological content and the performance that best befits the most demanding and scrupulous Fiat 500 MY 2014 customers. On display at the stand in Paris are a 500 Lounge (cabrio version) with three-layer white livery and beige soft top, an S version with black roof, a 500S cabrio with blue bodywork and black soft top and an exclusive Lattementa-coloured Fiat 500 Cult.