I had a fantastic week driving the Fiat 500e around the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. This updated version of Fiat’s all-electric 500e delivered a range of about 150 miles, though I occasionally reached up to 160 miles when using a Level 2 charger. With its extended range and improved capacity, the 500e has come far from the original model.
The model I drove was a stylish rose gold, adding a touch of flair that perfectly suited city driving. It’s a fun, zippy car that’s sure to turn heads; even a college friend of mine enjoyed seeing it on the road. The 500e is packed with technology, including wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Uconnect 5 with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display. The six-speaker audio system, with SiriusXM 360L and a Wi-Fi hotspot, offered crisp sound quality. I also enjoyed streaming my music created with Carnegie Mellon’s music department, enhanced by Alexa integration for hands-free control.
The 500e impressed with its 162 lb-ft of torque, making its 117-horsepower engine feel surprisingly robust. Its 400-volt battery and 42-kWh capacity allow for quick charging, though I would have liked a 60-kWh battery for a range closer to 200 miles.
This vehicle proved ideal for city driving, offering an enjoyable, all-electric experience with a respectable range. I drove through the D.C. and Baltimore areas, including across the Bay Bridge on I-97 and along I-95. Charging was convenient, with Level 2 chargers available in Silver Spring and fast Level 3 chargers at some Pepco locations and parks, allowing me to recharge with ease.
If you’re looking for a stylish, tech-savvy electric vehicle for city driving, the Fiat 500e is an excellent choice. The base price starts at $36,000, and the model I tested, with additional options, came to $37,500. For more information, visit www.fiat.com