2024 Fiat 500e

In 2024, Fiat’s reintroduced its diminutive electric city car, the 500e, marking its first appearance on these shores since 2019. The 500e is an undeniably cute 2-door hatchback available in 3 trim levels. Powered by a 117-hp electric motor and a 42-kWh battery, it has quick, go-kart steering and nimble handling. Its small size and light weight make it easy to drive and park. The 500e has several other virtues. The front seats have good headroom and legroom. At 116 MPGe, fuel economy is good. And when hooked up to 85-kW fast charging, the battery can reach an 80% charge level in about 35 minutes. But cute looks only get you so far—the 500e has a lot of drawbacks. First and foremost is its limited range, a maximum of 149 miles according to the EPA, which is pretty low for an EV with an MSRP of $34,000. Next is the 500e’s limited passenger and cargo space. It’s not a family-friendly car; the back seat is suitable only for children at most. Additionally, because of its short wheelbase, the 500e delivers a firm, bouncy ride—marginally acceptable around town but not for highway driving. Finally, the 500e’s tech interface feels dated, and its convenience and advanced safety features are limited. For example, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning are optional.