FIAT Introduces The New 2019 Fiat 500X For North America:
New Powertrains, New Technology, More Aggressive Looks...
In the past several months, we showed you the Euro-Spec 2019 Fiat 500X as well as told you details about the North American version. Now Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) has released all the final details on the new 2019 Fiat 500X for North America.
Powered by an all-new, fuel-efficient turbocharged engine and wrapped in head-turning Italian design, the new 2019 Fiat 500X will debut at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show.
The 2019 Fiat 500X features an all-new, standard-equipped 1.3-liter turbocharged engine with the latest iteration of the FCA exclusive MultiAir (called MultiAir III) valve-actuation technology, engine stop-start (ESS) technology and best-in-class torque. Also standard are a nine-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system with a disconnecting rear axle that contributes to improved fuel efficiency.
In addition to new front and rear fascia designs, the new small FIAT crossover will offer 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.”
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.
Power:
Power in the 2019 Fiat 500X comes from an all-new, standard-equipment 1.3-liter direct-injection four-cylinder turbocharged engine featuring a 70 mm bore and 86.5 mm stroke for a total displacement of 1,332 cc. Engine performance includes 177 horsepower and a best-in-class peak torque rating of 210 lb.-ft.
The all-new engine’s attributes are not limited to the realm of performance. The engine benefits from the latest iteration of an FCA-exclusive third-generation MultiAir valve-actuation technology, which further optimizes combustion efficiency through its unique 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.
Driving Dynamics:
The 2019 Fiat 500X features engaging driving dynamics with superior ride and handling. A tuned electric power steering (EPS) system provides enhanced handling and improved fuel efficiency, while superior torsional rigidity and NVH applications deliver an exceptionally quiet cabin.
An extensive use of high-strength steel reinforces the vehicle’s dynamics and crashworthiness, while optimizing weight for maximum fuel efficiency. The independent front MacPherson strut suspension features lightweight, optimally sized components for nimble dynamics and quiet performance. The isolated rear cradle provides a quieter and smoother ride.
The 2019 Fiat 500X also features Koni frequency selective damping (FSD) front strut and rear shock absorbers to deliver improved road-holding and handling characteristics. In addition, the Koni FSD system actively filters out high-frequency suspension inputs from uneven road surfaces and adjusts for comfort and smoothness while maintaining excellent ride control.
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.
Design:
The Fiat 500X leverages the iconic Cinquecento’s DNA to deliver classic Italian style and additional ground clearance with 17- or 18-inch wheels. The 2019 Fiat 500X has a refreshed exterior with new front and rear fascia designs, available LED daytime running lights and LED tail lamps.
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.
Additional new key design features for the vehicle include a stylish, high-tech LED signature strip around the front light module, providing the front of the new 500X a clear and 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. The Fiat 500X’s dual-pane sunroof (available on all model configurations) offers a power-sliding panoramic roof, with side glass panels that match with the body-side sheet metal for an open and spacious effect.
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. Consumers also have three all-new wheel options, including 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.
The 2019 Fiat 500X adds a refreshed cockpit that includes new premium cloth seating fabrics that provide unmistakable Italian style, additional space and utility plus comfortable seating for five.
A new instrument cluster is featured with easy-to-read graphics and maintains its arrangement into three stylish circular elements providing the perfect blend of vintage looks and modern technology. 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 for perfect grip. The wheel features premium Techno-leather upholstery, as well as mounted radio controls to ensure safe driving at all times. The ergonomic passenger compartment also contributes to a comfortable and relaxed experience with easy-to-reach controls, gear-shift position and convenient front armrest.
Stay tuned as later this week, we will break down the individual models for the 2019 Fiat 500X for North America, as well as pricing.
North American 2019 Fiat 500X Trekking Plus Image Gallery:
