Fiat updates 500X for 2018
More kit into limited-time Special Launch Edition but regular range and variants are substantially trimmedFiat has announced the arrival of the 500X small SUV for the new model year, boasting improved safety and infotainment, along with a Special Launch Edition offering added value.
Based on the range-topping front-wheel drive Fiat 500X Pop Star, the 500X Special Launch Edition comes equipped with value claimed to be worth $5500, for just $3000 more than the donor model.
The additional items are: exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels, black leather-upholstered seats, eight-way power-adjustable front seats – with electric lumbar adjust - BeatsAudio premium sound system and electric folding exterior mirrors.
Only 100 units of the Fiat 500X Special Launch Edition will be sold in Australia, and the colours available to order are: Gelato White, Argento Grey, Cinema Black, Fashion Grey, Venezia Blue and Passione Red.
Fiat has also trimmed down the ongoing 500X model range to two grades, Pop and Pop Star, with a starting price of $24,990 before on-road costs.
Part-time all-wheel drive variants have been dropped from the range and the powertrain options are now limited to the 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder with a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch transmissions.
For 2018 the Fiat 500X features revised switchgear and a new, 7.0-inch Uconnect touch-screen infotainment system, incorporating Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration and voice recognition/control. Additionally, the system in the 500X Pop Star also offers satellite navigation. A BeatsAudio optional audio system comprises a 560W, eight-channel digital amplifier with an "advanced equalisation algorithm designed to recreate the entire sound spectrum that an artist experiences during their studio recordings".
Standard safety features for the 500X Pop Star include cornering lights, Forward Collision Warning-Plus (radar/video-based forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking), blind spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, Lane Departure Warning Plus and adaptive cruise control.
Power and torque figures remain the same for both variants – 103kW and 230Nm. Fuel consumption is 7.0L/100km for the dual-clutch variant or 6.0L/100km for the manual. The manual transmission is only available with the 500X Pop, the dual-clutch unit being the sole transmission available for the higher-spec 500X Pop Star.
“The new MY18 500X is a shining example of Fiat’s designers and engineers seamlessly combining an unmistakable creative flair with the latest in automotive technology to deliver a vehicle that adds a fresh element of style, function and capability to the crossover market in Australia,” says Fulvio Antonelli, Head of Fiat Australia.
“2018 is an exciting year for the Fiat brand in Australia and the new 500X spearheads the exciting new products we will launch here this year.”
Prices for the 500X, not including on-road costs:
500X Pop manual – $24,990
500X Pop DCT – $26,990
500X Pop Star DCT – $29,990
500X Launch Edition DCT – $32,990
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