Pros: Surprisingly peppy and fun-to-drive; nimble handling; close-quarters maneuverability; decently smooth ride for a subcompact-sized car
Cons: Limited availability; standard 500’s already-cramped rear-seat space is further compromised by electric motor’s battery pack; limited driving range; high price compared to gas-engine Fiat 500–though discounts and incentives can help offset the sticker price
CG Says: The electric Fiat 500e is quiet, rides smoothly, and feels very solid, which is saying a lot for an electric car. It also happens to be a blast to drive. It boasts a maximum range of 87 miles on a full charge, which is average among its peers (Chevrolet Spark EV, Ford Focus Electric, Honda Fit EV, Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Nissan Leaf, and Toyota RAV4 EV), but its fastest charging time of 4 hours is among the best in class. While it costs a substantial amount more than a fossil-fuel-powered Fiat 500, its price is reasonable compared to the other electric vehicles from major automakers. Its small size means it’s easy to park, but it doesn’t have the interior space of its main competition. Overall, don’t miss this EV if you’re in the market for a “green” machine.
