Fiat has revived its 600 nameplate for an all-new electric crossover designed to take on the likes of the Toyota Corolla Cross, Nissan Qashqai and Hyundai Kona.
But those already in love with the 600’s Italian styling and new-age powertrain shouldn’t hold their breath, as it still remains to be seen if the new Fiat is destined for Australian shores.
CarsGuide has contacted Fiat Australia for an answer and is awaiting a reply.
Known as the 600e and revealed in Turin, Italy overnight, the five-door, five-seater features a 115kW electric motor that can scoot the Italian SUV from 0-100km/h in 9.0 seconds.
With a 54kWh battery in tow, the 600e boasts a driving range of “more than” 400km when tested on WLTP standards, according to Fiat.
However, the up-to-100kW fast-charger capability can juice the Fiat 600e up to 80 per cent in less than 30 minutes, while an 11kW onboard charger will need about six hours for a recharge when at home.
Aside from the powertrain, Fiat is also spruiking the 600e’s practicality for those that might need something a little bigger than a 500e.
The boot can swallow 360 litres of volume with all seats in place, and Fiat calls the 600e the “best in class” for front storage thanks to various interior cubbies, nooks and crannies that will take a cumulative 15L load.
From the outside, the 600e looks like a 500e that has gone through a growth spurt.
The front end features the same rounded head- and daytime running light design, while ‘600’ is stamped proudly on the bumper.
Wheels measure up to 18 inches to fill out the arches, and prominent black-plastic cladding is also found throughout to denote its high-riding, crossover status.
Inside, there’s a massaging and electronically adjustable driver’s seat, which Fiat describes as “a complete Italian spa time”.
Synthetic leather also features throughout, as does seat heating, velour floor mats, a wireless smartphone charger, a six-speaker sound system and keyless entry.
Technology has obviously been a focus for Fiat in the 600e thanks to a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 10.25-inch multimedia touchscreen with functions for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and satellite navigation.
Fiat is also touting the fact there are eight different colours for the multimedia system, and combined with eight hues for the interior ambient lighting, there are a total of 64 permutations for “an unprecedent [sic] colour surround experience”.
Safety is also at the forefront in the 600e, with features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, autonomous emergency braking, driver attention monitor and surround-view cameras.
Fiat’s new 600e electric SUV will launch in Europe from September.
Keyword: The sweet life! 2024 Fiat 600e detailed as EV alternative to Toyota Corolla Cross, Nissan Qashqai and Peugeot 2008 small SUVs