If you’re looking at buying a new car, it can sometimes be difficult to choose a type. Do you want a small hatchback – something that will dart about the city streets with ease – or an SUV to help you handle the tougher tasks you may face on the roads.
Well, why not both? Crossover cars (that is, a hybrid of two vehicle types) are becoming more popular for savvy shoppers wanting the best of two worlds. The new Fiat 500X is a prime example, matching versatility with a sturdy demeanour. It’s also an option to acquire one on a novated lease.
“It is clear that there has never been a better time to buy a new car.”
You very well may be one of the many Australians wanting to buy an SUV. According to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), the vehicle is an increasingly popular choice among consumers, with the car type making up 35.4 per cent of new car sales in 2015 – up from 31.7 per cent the year before.
However, you might not want the higher fuel costs that come with larger cars. FCAI’s Chief Executive, Tony Weber, said the current car market is extremely diverse, and there are plenty of options new car buyers have today – evident in the Fiat 500X crossover.
“The high level of choice in the Australian new car market is delivering Australian consumers’ access to high-quality vehicles at record affordability levels,” Mr Weber explained in January.
“In addition, the competitiveness of the market has seen new car buyers access an extensive range of finance options and genuine service offers that maintain the value and integrity of the vehicle. It is clear that there has never been a better time to buy a new car.”
So, if you’re on the fence about getting a hatchback or an SUV, could the Fiat 500X be for you? Let’s take a closer look at this Italian thoroughbred.
Under the hood
The Fiat 500X boasts a 1.4-litre, four-cylinder MPFI (that’s multi-point fuel injection system) engine, producing a relatively high torque level of 230Nm from a seemingly low 1,750rpm, which will help when carrying larger loads. The smaller turbocharged engine gives it a bit of oomph while still keeping it economical in the day to day.
Running on unleaded fuel, the car will use around 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres, according to Car Advice, so in normal driving conditions you could get around 800 kilometres from its full 48-litre engine.
Design
The entire 500 series has been designed in the shape of what Fiat calls a “squircle” – that’s somewhere between a square and a circle. The manufacturer claims it increases the aerodynamics of the car, while also giving it quite a flowing aesthetic.
Built for the city as well as the open road, the Fiat 500X comes with the Italian manufacturer’s “Centro Stile” with everything close at hand for the driver. Visibility is also improved with a larger windscreen, higher seated viewpoint and a dynamically designed steering wheel that helps you keep an eye on what’s in front of you.
It’s got style, class, power and precision… plus a little bit more. #Fiat #500X pic.twitter.com/9i6wSjHNRL
— Fiat Australia (@fiataustralia) February 8, 2016
Technology
Modern cars are mostly about the tech, which helps in the triple realms of comfort, drivability and safety. This model is fitted with traction control to help with the handling – useful on both sealed and unsealed roads
Price
At around $33,000, the Fiat 500X is in direct competition with the likes of the Mazda CX-3 Akari ($33,290), the Nissan Qashqai ST ($28,490), Skoda’s Yeti Ambition ($29,190), and Renault’s Captur Dynamique ($30,000). However, if you’re looking to a slightly pricier, higher-spec new car (or indeed a cheaper one) a novated lease is a good way to bundle all the costs into one easy payment.
Whatever car you’re looking for, get in touch with Alliance Leasing and we’ll help you trim the cost on your overall purchase.
