As the first Fiat car with an all-wheel-drive system, the Fiat 500X is definitely a unicorn when it comes to the Italian producer. It seems, though, that Fiat is only stuck with this unicorn, as their plan for the next five years does not include any major revitalization or rejuvenation. And, if the brand wants to survive, that is exactly what it needs. Actually, having Fiat completely disappear in a few years’ time isn’t that of a far-fetched idea.
Yet, despite all the media scrutiny that has been present ever since cheerful Marchionne laid out the new plan for the FCA group, Fiat revealed a new car called the 500X Adventurer Edition.
It is obviously yet another attempt at freshening up the car which appeared all the way back in 2014.
500X Adventurer Edition Tries Its Best To Be Tougher
The Adventurer moniker is suggestive for a reason. This Fiat 500X Adventurer should give all the needed robustness and toughness the 500 obviously lacks. With the addition of black roof rails, orange mirror caps, 18-inch aluminum wheels, front and rear splash guards, and orange body-side graphics, the 500X Adventurer does elicit a certain form of adventure and self-confidence. It looks cool in a quirky kind of a way.
Sadly, off-road characteristics haven’t been improved. At all. As you may already know, this is a small city crossover. When introduced back in 2014, Fiat mostly praised its highly efficient AWD system rigged to be as economically friendly as possible.
“A particular feature of the 500X's four-wheel drive is the adoption of a rear axle disconnect system that permits a reduction in energy wasted through drag when four-wheel drive operation is not required.”
This system is basically the same as on the Jeep Renegade.
Not exactly an off-road dominator then
What it is, on the other hand, is a fantastic active and cheerful city dweller not afraid of getting some dirt on its paint. Speaking of which, Fiat made available the 500X Adventurer Edition package for Pop, Trekking and Lounge trim levels and offered four different finish options: Bianco Gelato, Nero Cinema, Grigio Graphite, and Grigio Argentino. So, white, black, grey and grey metallic. You are welcome.
“Built off the Trekking model, the new Adventurer package offers rugged, adventurous styling and yet another opportunity for customers to personalize their Fiat 500X,” says Steve Beahm, Head of Passenger Car Brands – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA – North America.
Underwhelming changes inside
Changes on the inside aren’t as generous as those outside. Fiat 500X Adventurer did not gain any major quirks. The Italians only added a rear cargo tray and all-weather floor mats.
Not what you’d call an update.
Especially when you Consider the fact that the Adventurer Edition adds only $945 on top of the base 500C Trekking price, one cannot expect lavishness.
Do not feel disappointed, though. The Fiat 500X Adventurer Edition does come with a nice tech package including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, Bluetooth capability, and voice command system. Other perks include SiriusXM, an optional BeatsAudio system, and Uconnect 4 with a seven-inch touchscreen.
Sticker prices of the Fiat 500X Trekking Adventurer Edition 2WD and its 4WD brother are $23,685 and $25,585, respectively.
Further reading
Read our full review on the 2018 Fiat 500X.
Read more Fiat news.