The upcoming Fiat 500 Ibrida (Hybrid) is no longer a mystery car hiding behind camouflage—thanks to our friend Walter Vayr (@GabetzSPYUnit), we now have our first clear look at the new hybrid hatchback running around Italy in full production trim.
While the fully electric Fiat 500e has been getting all the attention since its debut in 2020, consumer interest is shifting toward hybrids, especially with high interest rates pushing shoppers away from pricey EVs. That’s where the 500 Ibrida comes in—same iconic Italian design, now with a more affordable and fuel-efficient mild-hybrid setup.
From the outside, the 500 Ibrida keeps the cute and curvy retro style intact but adds a unique twist up front—a new “mail-slot” style grille opening under the 500 badge that helps differentiate it from the EV version. It’s a subtle but important touch that hints at the new hardware under the hood.
According to sources and earlier production teasers from Stellantis, the new 500 Ibrida will be powered by a tiny but clever 1.0-liter inline-three-cylinder engine from the FCA Global Small Engine (GSE) family. It’s a mild-hybrid setup that combines a 12-volt Belt Start Generator (BSG) motor with a lithium-ion battery. Peak output? Just 70 horsepower, but that’s right in line with the last 500 Hybrid and Fiat Panda Hybrid, which shared the same powertrain.
And here’s what enthusiasts will really love—the 500 Ibrida is expected to come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission. That’s right: a proper stick-shift hybrid in 2025. While this powertrain won’t set speed records, it’s engineered for efficiency and fun in the city.
The engine’s design prioritizes thermal efficiency, with a high compression ratio of 12:1, external exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and lightweight aluminum construction from Teksid. Fiat kept weight low—just 170 lbs (77 kg)—and reduced internal friction with clever crank geometry and offset rods.
To prepare for this new wave of production, Stellantis recently moved Maserati GranTurismo and GranCabrio production out of its historic Mirafiori plant and invested $140 million to make the factory flexible enough to build both the 500e and the 500 Ibrida. Combined output is expected to reach 160,000 units per year, with 100,000 of those being Ibrida models.
With its blend of heritage design, approachable tech, and hybrid practicality, the 500 Ibrida is shaping up to be a strong play in today’s value-conscious small car market.
