In a world where compact crossovers and SUVs dominate the roads, the 2020 Fiat 500L dares to be different. With its distinctive styling, upright stance, and European flair, the 500L offers a refreshing alternative for drivers seeking something outside the conventional mold. Designed to bridge the gap between the iconic Fiat 500 city car and a more spacious family vehicle, the 500L brings personality and practicality together in one eye-catching package.
Whether you're navigating tight city streets, running errands, or planning weekend getaways, the 500L delivers surprising versatility in a compact footprint. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what makes the 2020 Fiat 500L stand out—from its bold design and spacious interior to its everyday driving experience and key features.
Eye-Catching Exterior Design
It carries the iconic design DNA of the original Fiat 500 but stretches it into a more practical and upright format, creating a unique look that sets it apart from the sea of generic compact crossovers. Its boxy shape isn’t just for style—it serves a functional purpose. The tall roofline allows for a more spacious interior, while the short overhangs and compact dimensions make it ideal for urban driving and tight parking spots.
Fiat has also included thoughtful exterior touches like body-colored bumpers, stylish alloy wheels, and optional fog lights that give the 500L a more upscale feel without losing its playful roots.
Spacious and Functional Interior
Step inside the 2020 Fiat 500L, and you're immediately struck by how open and roomy it feels—something you might not expect from a compact vehicle. The high roofline provides exceptional headroom for both front and rear passengers, making the cabin feel airy and less cramped than many competitors. Legroom is generous as well, especially in the back seat, where adult passengers can ride comfortably even on longer trips.
The large windows and panoramic windshield not only bring in plenty of natural light but also improve visibility from every angle—perfect for city driving or navigating crowded parking lots. Storage solutions are thoughtfully placed throughout the cabin, including multiple cupholders, door pockets, and a decent-sized glove compartment. Fold the rear seats down, and you get up to 68 cubic feet, rivaling the capacity of some small SUVs.
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Engine and Performance
While the 2020 Fiat 500L is best known for its unique design and spacious interior, its powertrain delivers a respectable balance of efficiency and everyday usability. Under the hood, every 500L comes equipped with a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine.
Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the 500L delivers smooth gear changes and responsive acceleration in most driving scenarios. Though not a high-performance vehicle, it performs adequately for its class, especially for drivers who prioritize comfort and practicality over sporty dynamics.
The front-wheel-drive layout keeps the vehicle light and nimble, particularly helpful when maneuvering through narrow streets or parking in tight spots. The suspension setup is tuned more for comfort than agility, which means the 500L offers a soft, compliant ride that absorbs most road imperfections well.
Steering is light and precise, enhancing the 500L’s urban-friendly personality. In terms of fuel economy, the 2020 Fiat 500L earns an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. These figures are about average for the segment, offering a decent balance between power and efficiency. For many drivers, especially those who spend most of their time in urban environments, the 500L’s performance will feel more than adequate.
Safety and Technology
While the 2020 Fiat 500L places a strong emphasis on style and space, it also delivers essential safety and technology features to support a confident and connected driving experience. Though it doesn't offer a long list of cutting-edge driver assistance systems, it includes many key elements that ensure peace of mind behind the wheel.
Standard safety equipment in the 500L includes a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and a comprehensive airbag system that covers front, side, and curtain airbags.
In terms of in-car technology, the 500L is well-equipped for its class. Standard integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allows drivers to connect their smartphones to access navigation apps, music streaming services, hands-free calls, and messaging—all without taking their hands off the wheel.
Additional tech features include Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, voice command support, and available options like a premium BeatsAudio sound system and dual-zone automatic climate control. Higher trims may also include a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, enhancing both comfort and the premium feel of the cabin.
Pros and Cons
Like any vehicle, the 2020 Fiat 500L has its strengths and weaknesses. While it excels in several key areas that make it a solid choice for a specific type of driver, it also has a few limitations that buyers should consider before making a decision.
Pros:
Spacious Interior:
The high roofline and upright seating make it ideal for taller passengers and families.
User-Friendly Technology:
The standard Uconnect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is intuitive and responsive. Fiat makes it easy to stay connected and entertained on the go without overcomplicating the interface.
Unique Alternative:
For buyers who don’t want to blend in with the crowd, the 500L offers a quirky, fun alternative to more conventional compact cars or small SUVs.
Cons:
Average Fuel Economy:
With EPA estimates of 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, the 500L’s fuel efficiency is adequate but not class-leading.
Underwhelming Driving Dynamics:
While the 500L is easy to drive and comfortable, it lacks the sporty handling or peppy acceleration that some rivals offer. It’s best suited for relaxed daily commuting rather than spirited driving.
Limited All-Wheel Drive Availability:
The 500L is front-wheel-drive only, which may be a concern for buyers living in snowy or rugged regions who require the extra traction of an all-wheel-drive system.
Aging Platform:
Compared to newer competitors, the 500L's design and technology platform are starting to show their age.
