Fiat Unveils New 500 Hybrid with Overhauled Interior and Manual Gearbox
Fiat has recently shared the first images of the upcoming 500 Hybrid, showcasing an updated interior design and the inclusion of a six-speed manual gearbox. The new model, set to hit the market soon, promises a unique driving experience for Fiat enthusiasts.
The exterior of the 500 Hybrid closely resembles the electric 500e, with the only noticeable difference being a redesigned front grille to accommodate a petrol engine. The interior, on the other hand, boasts a larger and more functional storage cubby, along with an elevated gear lever positioned alongside the steering wheel reminiscent of the older petrol-powered 500 models.
While Fiat has yet to officially confirm the powertrain for the 500 Hybrid, speculations suggest that it will likely feature the same 1.0-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid Firefly engine found in previous Fiat models like the Panda. The inclusion of a manual gearbox indicates that the 1.2-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid Puretech engine, commonly used in Stellantis vehicles, will not be utilized due to its automatic transmission compatibility.
Production of the 500 Hybrid is expected to commence in the fourth quarter of this year, marking an earlier timeline than initially projected by Fiat. This move to introduce a combustion engine to an electric vehicle is a pioneering step in the European automotive industry, showcasing Fiat’s innovation and adaptability.
Reports from March 2024 suggested that Fiat’s decision to introduce a hybrid version of the 500 was driven by the need to boost production at the Mirafiori factory in response to sluggish sales of the 500e and its Abarth 500e variant. Production pauses experienced in the previous year further emphasized the necessity for a new approach to meet market demands.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Fiat 500 Hybrid as it gears up for its highly anticipated release in the automotive market.
