Introducing the Fiat 600 – as indicated by its name, it offers a slightly larger size compared to the 500. This model dates back to 1955, predating the launch of the 500, which means that the compact city car is essentially a more petite version of the 600.

Originally designed to be a spacious and functional family vehicle, it held this reputation throughout the Sixties, exemplified by the 600 Multipla, which featured three rows and seating for six. For the sake of this discussion, we will overlook the Cinquecento and Seicento superminis that emerged in the early 2000s.

Is it simply a larger version of the 500?

Well this is the slightly more existential question – the 600 is not being marketed as a larger version of the 500 in the same way that the car it’s replacing, the 500X, was. But it’s hard to pigeonhole the newer car – it’s not quite a supermini and it’s not quite an SUV, it sits somewhere in the middle.

With approximately 500 design elements, the vehicle showcases playful headlights, intricately designed rear lights, a nostalgic front fascia, and numerous retro styling details sprinkled throughout. However, the abundance of '600' emblems adorning the car makes it clear that this model is not just a variant of the 500. When you stand beside it, you'll notice it's significantly larger than the 500—both in length and width. This added size makes it a more suitable option for driving with multiple passengers.

How is the shared platform performing?

Fiat says that this is the first full car that’s been developed under Stellantis ownership, and it’s clear that this isn’t an all-new car but one that shares parts with familiar names from across the portfolio. To the point that Fiat will tell you that the platform has won Car of the Year twice in the form of the Peugeot 208 and Jeep Avenger (the 600 is built on the same line as the Jeep). 

On one side, none of its counterparts establish dynamic standards, while on the flip side, the tried-and-true configuration allows Fiat to assert reliability by association. The company believes that the use of common components enables it to be more competitive in terms of pricing and other factors. The electric system, which includes the motor, power inverter, and battery, is a second-generation setup that will debut with the updated versions of those other vehicles.

What’s it like on the inside?

The retro quirkiness doesn’t quite follow through on the inside – there are some nice touches, like the iPad-style cover on the central storage in the dashboard, but otherwise the interior is a mash-up of Fiat 500 and Jeep Avenger. Space in the back isn’t brilliant, but if you’re thinking of the 600 as a 500 upgrade then you can’t fail to be impressed. 

What are the available powertrain choices?

You have the option of a fully electric, battery-operated model known as the 600e, or two hybrid variants referred to as the 600 Hybrid. One of these hybrids is the 100HP version, which, as the name suggests, delivers a power output of one hundred metric horsepower (98bhp). The second hybrid boasts a more robust performance with 136HP, translating to 134bhp.

Both hybrid models come equipped with a lively 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission includes an electric motor, which is powered by a compact 0.89kWh battery – roughly equivalent to the size of batteries typically found in pocket calculators.

You might want to take a seat for what’s coming next: in urban traffic, the electric motor and battery enable a complete 0.6 miles of driving solely on electricity. Indeed, the driveway is yours to explore!

Want a spicier version of that battery-powered 600? Abarth builds a powerful one that makes fake fruity noises.

Is it running smoothly? 

The 600e prioritizes comfort with its quiet operation and smooth acceleration. However, the steering and braking leave much to be desired. The steering wheel feels overly light, making it challenging to navigate turns with precision. Additionally, the brake pedal lacks consistency. In summary, if you're seeking an exhilarating driving experience, this may not be the right choice for you.

The vehicle boasts a 156bhp motor paired with a 51kWh usable battery. While the battery size may seem modest, it’s sufficient, as we’ve consistently observed that cars equipped with this powertrain are impressively efficient. In our real-world evaluation, we achieved a range of almost 220 miles on varied roads and in different weather conditions, compared to the WLTP figure of 250 miles.

The 600 Hybrid 100HP – the same hybrid setup offered in its Peugeot 208 and Vauxhall Corsa Stellantis siblings – feels just as peppy as it does in those cars. No, 98bhp doesn’t sound like much when your average sneeze generates more force. But at a time when more people are hesitating over getting into a full electric car, it’s a good stepping stone. Punchy, smooth, with a rorty – albeit muted – soundtrack, it’s fairly frugal, too. More under the Driving tab.

What can you tell me about competitors? 

Competition from inside the Stellantis empire comes in the shape of the Vauxhall Mokka and Avenger crossovers, or the Peugeot e-208 and Vauxhall Corsa Electric superminis.

There's the MG 4 and (if you're either brave or working to a tight budget) the BYD Dolphin. The Hyundai Kona Electric has grown a step in its second generation, so it's dearer. And you'd be mad not to at least consider the Volvo EX30 and Renault Megane E-Tech Electric, even if they are pricier.

The 600 ticks all the right boxes – it’s a well-equipped supermini/crossover featuring electric power at a price point that many people typically spend on a petrol automatic. It offers ample space for its size and provides a comfortable ride. The electric components, including efficiency, charging times, and the standard heat pump, perform reliably.

While the dazzling realm of electricity may seem intimidating, hybrid cars present a more sensible option: economical and, perhaps most crucially, more affordable to purchase.

Fiat aims to position the 600 as a vehicle that embodies 'fun', yet interpretations of this concept may vary. For Fiat, the emphasis leans more towards vibrant hues and unique designs rather than a focus on the thrill of driving itself.

This vehicle is likely to attract individuals who were charmed by the adorable design of the 500. However, aside from the hefty marketing efforts, the exterior doesn't really stand out, and its driving performance falls short compared to various other compact SUVs.