The 500X joins Fiat's line up

The 500X joins Fiat's line up

Fiat revealed its latest small SUV and new addition to the 500 family this week  the Fiat 500X.

In keeping with its philosophy of appealing to every spectrum of customer, the Fiat 500X is available with a broad range of engines and transmissions, including a new nine-speed automatic transmission  a first for the Fiat family. This new, electronically-controlled, nine-speed automatic transmission features "shift-on-the-fly" mapping with the possibility of switching to manual-sequential mode.

The latest safety systems are available to assist the driver, including front headlights with DRLs, front fog lights with adaptive cornering, electronic stability control, lane departure warning system and blind spot assist. A ParkView reversing camera is also available in the new 500X, as is the "Brake Control" assisted braking system.

The new 500X is compact on the outside measuring 4.25 metres in length, 1.80 metres in width and 1.60 metres in height - 1.61 with roof bars and 1.62 with 4WD. However, it remains spacious on the inside, with extensive use of high-grade materials, top-quality finishes and practical storage compartments  including a spacious 350-litre luggage compartment. The seats adjust to offer a high degree of flexibility and seven different interior fabric, leather and colour configurations are available, depending on the model and exterior colour.

The Fiat 500X also stands out compared to its competitors thanks to its sophisticated 5.0- or 6.5-inch Uconnect colour touchscreen infotainment systems. Both systems feature Bluetooth, aux-in and USB connectivity and can be operated via steering wheel remote controls and voice commands.

The five-inch Uconnect unit is available with TomTom 2.5D navigation while the 6.5-inch system features satellite navigation with 3D maps, progressive route guidance and 'One Shot Voice Destination Entry' to enter addresses with voice commands. DAB and a Beats Hi-Fi system, developed in collaboration with Beats by Dr. Dre are also available.

The new Fiat 500X will go on sale in the UK in 2015. Final specifications and pricing will be announced closer to the launch of the FIAT 500X in the UK.

by: Rebecca Chaplin