2015 Fiat 500X revealed

The 500X maintains the proportions and cute packaging of the smaller sibling.

The big brother of the cute little Fiat 500 is being readied for modern families in Australia in the second half of next year.

Unveiled at the Paris motor show, the 500X is a genuine five-seater that maintains the proportions and cute packaging of the rounded revival of Fiat's highest favourite, called the Cinquecento in Italy.

There are two models of the X-car, a high-rider for weekend escapes and a lower-set version for city work, with a choice of engines and drive. It is still only 4.25 metres long but stands 1.6 metres high. Safety equipment includes reversing camera, lane departure warning and emergency brake assist. Boot capacity is 350L.

For Australia, the most likely addition to the 500 family is the metropolitan model with petrol engines. Firm pricing is well in the future but prices potentially will start below $30,000.

"It's not confirmed yet for Australia"

"It's not confirmed yet for Australia. It would be available in the second half of next year if we get it," says Fiat spokeswoman Karla Leach.

"Fiat needs a proper five-seater car. You can upsize or downsize into a 500X, which makes it a good size for Australia and gives us a range of opportunities with buyers. It would work for people moving up out of their first car, or older couples looking to downsize without losing some style and enjoyment." 

Chief designer Roberto Giolito says the car is intended to maintain the proportions of the 500 and also keep the "face". He hints that there will an Abarth version of the X-fighter.
"The 500X is a good body for Abarth. The driving seat is perfectly (in place) to control the car, so Abarth would be perfect" he says.

Fiat Chrysler Automotive says a decision for Australia will be made before the end of the year. The company is studying how the 500X will fit in a line-up that includes Jeep and the coming Renegade. The arrival of the Renegade militates against importing the all-wheel drive 500X, as the two would compete and cannibalise sales.

"There are a number of engine options for the 500X ... reviewing what's available, we would steer towards the petrol engines. There are four choices, from the 900cc TwinAir to the 1.4 turbo," says Leach.