If you're drawn to the Fiat 500's retro charm but need more space, Fiat has two very different answers for you: the 500L and the 500X. While they both wear the same family badge, they cater to different needs. The choice is largely between practicality and style.
The 500L is a compact MPV that puts interior space and versatility first. It’s designed for family life. The 500X, on the other hand, is a small SUV, with the higher driving position and rugged looks that are so popular today. Both cars have that distinctive Fiat character, but which one is the right fit for you?
Fiat 500L vs Fiat 500X
- Practicality
- Driving Impressions
- Technology and Equipment
- Running Costs
- CarGurus Buyer Insights
- Verdict
Practicality
Fiat 500L practicality score: 4/5
Fiat 500X practicality score: 3/5
This is where the 500L plays its trump card. As a purpose-built MPV, it’s all about maximising interior space. The tall, boxy shape creates excellent headroom, and the large windows give it an airy feel. Its best feature is the sliding rear bench, which lets you choose between more legroom or a bigger boot. For families, this flexibility is a real bonus. There's even a seven-seat 'MPW' version.
The 500X is more conventional. It has enough space for four adults to sit comfortably, but it can’t match the 500L’s outright versatility. Its 350-litre boot is decent for a compact SUV and much bigger than a standard 500's, but it's dwarfed by the 500L's load bay. If you prioritise space and flexibility above all else, the 500L is the clear winner.
Driving Impressions
Fiat 500L driving score: 3/5
Fiat 500X driving score: 3/5
Neither of these Fiats is designed to be a thrilling drive. The 500L is set up for comfort, with soft suspension that does a reasonable job of soaking up bumps, though it can feel a bit noisy over rough surfaces. The steering is very light, which is great for parking but means it doesn't feel particularly sharp on a country road. It’s a car that prioritises a relaxed journey over sporty handling.
The 500X feels more like a typical hatchback to drive. It handles corners more tidily than the 500L, though there's still a fair amount of body roll. It’s nimble enough around town, but it’s not a natural long-distance cruiser. Be aware that versions with larger wheels can have a firm ride. Overall, neither car is a class-leader for driving dynamics, but the 500X offers a slightly more conventional experience.
Technology and Equipment
Fiat 500L technology and equipment score: 3/5
Fiat 500X technology and equipment score: 3/5
In their early forms, both cars were fairly basic. Entry-level 500L models came with essentials like air-con and electric front windows, while higher specs added a 7.0-inch touchscreen and cruise control. The 500X followed a similar pattern, with posher trims getting a touchscreen and navigation.
The key difference came with the 500X's 2018 update. This made a touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across the range, along with modern safety aids like lane-keeping assist. This gives later 500X models a clear advantage in technology. If you're looking at older models, the differences are less pronounced, but for modern connectivity, a post-2018 500X is the one to go for.
Running Costs
Fiat 500L running costs score: 3/5
Fiat 500X running costs score: 3/5
Running costs for both cars are a bit of a mixed bag. Some engines are quite economical; the diesel versions of the 500L, for example, can be frugal choices for high-mileage drivers. However, some of the small petrol engines, like the 0.9-litre TwinAir, can struggle to match their official MPG figures in real-world driving, especially with a full car.
The biggest factor to consider with either car is depreciation. Both the 500L and 500X lose their value quite quickly compared to rivals. This is bad news if you’re buying new, but it makes them an attractive and affordable option on the used market. Just be prepared for their value to continue to fall during your ownership.
CarGurus Buyer Insights
| Fiat 500L | Fiat 500X | |
|---|---|---|
| CarGurus expert rating | 3 out of 5 | 3 out of 5 |
| CarGurus user rating | 4.8 out of 5 | 5.0 out of 5 |
| Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus* | 32.7% | 32.3% |
| Overall CarGurus rating | 4.1 out of 5 | 4.1 out of 5 |
The Verdict
Fiat 500L Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1/5
Fiat 500X Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1/5
This is one of the closest contests you'll find. According to our CarGurus Buyer Insights, the Fiat 500L and Fiat 500X are locked in a dead heat, with identical Overall CarGurus ratings. This means there's no objective winner; the right car for you comes down entirely to your personal priorities.
If you need maximum space, flexibility, and seating for up to seven, the 500L is the undeniable choice. It’s a hugely practical and affordable used family car, even if its looks are divisive and it’s not much fun to drive.
If, however, you prefer the fashionable SUV look, want more modern technology (in post-2018 models), and favour a more conventional driving experience, the 500X is the better fit. It trades some of the 500L's ultimate practicality for a dose of style that many buyers will find more appealing. It’s a classic case of head versus heart, and in this case, both are equally valid choices.
Fiat 500L Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent practicality and space | Divisive styling |
| Flexible seating options | Uninspiring to drive |
| Good value as a used car | Weak residual values |
Fiat 500X Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish SUV looks | Less practical than the 500L |
| Better tech on later models | Ride can be firm on big wheels |
| More conventional driving feel | Not a natural motorway cruiser |
*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.