Powered by a new turbocharged engine the new 2019 Fiat 500X will debut at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show. The 500X features an all-new, standard-equipped 1.3-liter turbocharged engine with the latest iteration of Fiat/Chrysler’s MultiAir (called MultiAir III) valve-actuation technology, engine stop-start (ESS) technology and more torque. Also standard are a nine-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system with a disconnecting rear axle.
In addition to new front and rear fascia designs, the new FIAT crossover offers nearly 70 safety and security features that will now include Adaptive Cruise Control and Front Park Assist.
“Our new Italian-designed, fun-to-drive 2019 Fiat 500X comes standard with an all-new, fuel-efficient 1.3-liter turbocharged engine that generates best-in-class torque,” said Steve Beahm, Head of Passenger Car Brands – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA – North America. “The new 2019 Fiat 500X also features standard all-wheel-drive capability tailored to handle multiple climates and road conditions.”
The new standard-equipment 1.3-liter direct-injection four-cylinder turbocharged engine features a 70 mm bore and 86.5 mm stroke for a total displacement of 1,332 cc. Engine performance includes 177 horsepower and a torque rating of 210 lb.-ft. The MultiAir valve-actuation technology optimizes combustion efficiency through its control of intake-valve opening and timing. MultiAir III accommodates low-load efficiency through advance opening of the intake valves, which enables exhaust-gas recycling. When the driver demands more power, MultiAir III reduces compression ratios by delaying valve closure which contributes to improved fuel efficiency while also controlling knock.
Additional features of the all-new 1.3-liter inline-four include ESS technology, further benefiting fuel efficiency and contributing to emissions reduction, low-inertia turbocharger with electronically controlled wastegate actuator, lightweight, cast-aluminum block with cast-in iron liners and integrated aluminum bedplate and four-valve cylinder head with high-turbulence intake.
The nine-speed automatic transmission provides a more responsive driving experience with quicker acceleration and smoother shifting. The transmission control system closely monitors temperature, speed and electronic stability control (ESC) activation. More than 20 individual shift maps for specific conditions optimize shift quality and shift points for improved fuel efficiency, performance and drivability.
A tuned electric power steering (EPS) system provides improved handling. The independent front MacPherson strut suspension features lightweight, optimally sized components. The Koni frequency selective damping (FSD) front strut and rear shock absorbers to deliver improved road-holding and handling characteristics. Now standard, the all-wheel-drive system uses a disconnecting rear axle to improve fuel efficiency by reducing parasitic loss when all-wheel drive is not needed.
New available headlamps with LED technology complements the unmistakable Fiat 500 style and provides 20 percent greater lighting capability compared with the previous model. Visibility is considerably improved and consumes five times less energy than traditional halogen lights.
New LED headlamps also cover a wider vision area at a speed of up to 56 miles per hour (mph), obstacles are spotted up to 4 seconds sooner nearly 330 feet prior than with the standard halogen units. A high-tech LED signature strip around the front light module, providing the front of the new 500X a distinctive visual identity. In addition, new rear LED tail lamps add a signature element that stands out on the road and increases visibility and safety. For 2019, three new exterior paint colors (Italia Blue, Vibrante Green and Milano Ivory Tri-coat) complement its wide variety of 12 available paint color options. All-new wheel options include a 17-inch silver aluminum wheel on Trekking models, 17-inch matte black machined wheel on Trekking Plus models plus an 18-inch matte anthracite machined aluminum wheel for Trekking and Trekking Plus models.
A new instrument cluster is featured with easy-to-read graphics and maintains its arrangement into three stylish circular elements. Two analogue dials with a speedometer and tachometers are arranged on the sides, while the 3.5-inch reconfigurable thin-film transistor (TFT) display in the middle provides key information to the driver in a simple and straightforward manner. A new steering wheel is contoured to ensure better positioning of the driver’s hands. The wheel features Techno-leather upholstery, as well as mounted radio controls to ensure safe driving at all times.
The 2019 Fiat 500X offers advanced technology, including standard Uconnect 4 with 7-inch touchscreen radio with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; available navigation; Bluetooth hands-free calling, voice command and streaming audio; and available SiriusXM Radio. The available BeatsAudio premium sound system includes eight speakers and a subwoofer for studio-quality sound.
Available in three model configurations – Pop, Trekking and Trekking Plus, the new 2019 Fiat 500X is manufactured in Italy at the Melfi assembly plant. Starting at $25,785 U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), including destination, the FIAT brand’s new small crossover will arrive in FIAT studios in the spring of 2019.
