No, we haven't been hacked! We're wading into the controversial surf of tall wagons - in this case, a model with history rooted in the most polarizing tall wagon of them all: the Tipo 186 Multipla I. Now, we are open to automotive designers challenging the status quo, especially when it comes to vehicle packaging. In this area, the Multipla did not disappoint. The way it reimagined the fundamental proportions of a 6-seater passenger is still very off-putting to many, but we prefer the risky design to the vanilla compact crossover SUVs clogging today's roads.
The 500L came onto the scene in 2012, replacing not on the Multipla, but also the Fiat Idea, as the 500L was offered in both 5 and 7-seater configurations. While the design in less pioneering when it comes to proportions, the shape is by no means universally accepted, and the round headlights, especially in North American markets, win the car no favors. We, on the other hand, are welcoming of the creative design and relieved to see some effort and risk from the Fiat design group.
Year: 2014
Model: Fiat 500L Trekking
Engine: 1.4L 4-cyl
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 17,050 mi
Price: $9,900 or best offer
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 2014 Fiat 500L Trekking
Fiat 500l daily driver for sale. Low highway mileage. 17250. Serviced and oil change per maintenance schedule. Navigation, parking sensors, back up camera, panoramic roof. Runs great. no mechanical issues.
More general info. - includes bi-halogen headlights with daytime running lights, 16-inch wheels, power windows, air conditioning, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, power locks, and more. No dents or damage. Surface scratches from normal use. The Trekking model adds aluminum wheels, tinted rear glass, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and a premium audio system (Beats).
The 500L is powered by the 500 Abarth’s 160-hp 1.4-liter turbocharged I-4 with 184 lb-ft of torque that routes power to the front wheels. Fuel economy is EPA-rated 24-25/33 mpg city/highway.
VIN Vehicle History report is pictured
The 1.4L turbocharged powertrain comes courtesy of the Fiat 500 Abarth, albeit without the raspy exhaust note. Along the way, it picks up a 6-speed manual - an option we wish that our personal 2013 Fiat 500 Abarth had included. The engine is boosted relatively aggressively, so do not expect modern levels of throttle response, but once on boil, the power is plenty acceptable. We find the quality of interior trim assembly to be relatively lacking on our North American Fiat 500, but the Serbian-assembled 500L might benefit from better suppliers in that area.
When it comes down to it, we think that this 500L makes a great case as a tall wagon, with its spunky engine and manual transmission. The panoramic moonroof and tall glass would make for a bright and airy cabin, and the interior room would be appreciated on long hauls. FCA has infotainment down pretty well, although this vehicle was developed before Apple CarPlay, so temper your expectations somewhat. We are fans of the green exterior and the unusual shape too. We can see ourselves adding a low-mileage example such as this one to our fleet in the coming years, if only as a 'shop runner'.
-Graham