As 2025 draws to a close, Fiat is confirming its commitment to affordable electrified mobility with the launch of the new 500 Hybrid, produced at the emblematic Mirafiori plant in Turin, while the Grande Panda continues to be rolled out in electric and hybrid versions. These two complementary models are aimed at city dwellers and those on a budget, while responding to the urgent need to protect the environment.
The 500 Hybrid marks a pragmatic return to its roots
Presented in Turin at a special press event from 21 to 28 November, the new Fiat 500 Hybrid is now available to order for all lovers of this iconic Italian vehicle. It is available in classic 3-door and 3+1 versions, as well as in a convertible version, with a range of finishes from POP to LA PRIMA, plus a special launch series called « Torino ».
In terms of engines, Fiat has opted for a petrol engine coupled to a 12 V micro-hybrid system, offering a combined power output of around 70 bhp, which is necessary for the often very urban use of this vehicle. This lightweight hybrid system is particularly fuel-efficient, with an average fuel consumption of 5.2 litres/100 km WLTP, according to official figures.
Its dimensions have not changed, and it remains true to the standards that made it such a success. In fact, it remains compact (around 3.63 m long), faithful to the city spirit of the original model. Its elegantly retro exterior design incorporates modernised details: a revamped radiator grille, LED headlights and soft lines, while the interior features a streamlined dashboard with a central 10.25-inch touchscreen, quality materials and a carefully designed lighting ambience focused on comfort and practicality.
The press release announcing the launch event, which took place on 21 November, made a point of emphasising the historic nature of this release: « This special moment also marks the model’s link with the Mirafiori factory in Turin, the original birthplace of the 500 in 1957. Production of the new 500 Hybrid officially began in November at the Carrozzerie Mirafiori plant in Turin, with a target of 5,000 units by the end of the year ». Fiat is highlighting this strong link with its industrial history, combining heritage and innovation in a model ready to meet the needs of everyday urban life.
The entry-level price starts at €19,400 inc VAT, and at this price, after a first electric wave with mixed sales, is a realistic compromise between performance, range and practicality.
Grande Panda EV: urban versatility at an affordable price
The Grande Panda boasts a comprehensive range of engines, with petrol, hybrid and 100% electric versions available. The big news at the end of the year is that the Italian brand has declared that each engine will be available in the affordable entry-level ‘POP’ version. A real boost for motorists who want to switch to more environmentally-friendly mobility without breaking the bank.
The 100% electric version, priced at €23,900 list price, boasts a WLTP range of up to 320 km thanks to its 44 kWh battery. Its engine develops 113 bhp (≈ 83 kW) and 122 Nm of torque. Its top speed is capped at 132 km/h for a 0 to 100 km/h time of less than 11 seconds. Classic performance, but for this kind of affordable, economical vehicle, speed and responsiveness are not the criteria on which the manufacturer has focused.
The light hybrid version, priced from €18,900, is aimed at providing an economical alternative to conventional combustion-powered city cars. Fiat is playing its card on a combination of attractive price, urban style and versatility of use, to appeal to a wide range of profiles. Talking of performance, this hybrid features a petrol engine combined with a 48 kW electric motor that develops 100 bhp. Top speed is 160 km/h, with a 0 to 100 km/h time of 10 seconds. This POP version of Fiat’s hybrid consumes 5 litres/100 km in the combined cycle, a decent average for this type of vehicle.
The POP version for these two types of engine offers a good ‘viable minimum’: 7 different colours, 16-inch wheels, basic but effective connectivity, and so on. It’s an interesting option for buyers looking for a simple, efficient EV (or hybrid/petrol city car) without superfluous options.
A clear commitment to the democratisation of electromobility
With the 500 Hybrid and the Grande Panda ‘POP’, Fiat has adopted a pragmatic strategy: to revive an accessible best-seller by adapting electric power to the reality of the European market, which is still hesitant, with hybrid as the gateway.
The diversification of powertrains, local production and affordable prices reflect the ambition for electrified mobility on a large scale.
