Used Fiat 500L MPW 2013-2017 review

Upgrading to the range-topping Lounge models adds automatic wipers and lights, electric sunroof, rear picnic tables and dual-zone climate control to help complete the mini-MPW equipment list.

The Fiat 500L MPW lacks the innovative storage spaces of the class best, but there’s a stylish logic to the cabin. The middle row of seats fold and tumble in one movement and the jump seats in the boot fold out by pulling a simple strap. Once in place, the seats are really only suitable for kids; an adult could probably ride side-saddle for a short journey.

Better is headroom in the front and better still is legroom in the back. The cabin feels bigger than it really is, and its narrowness comes as a shock when looking across to the passenger side mirror – it is mounted far closer than you’d expect.

It's possible to specify seats with 500L logos, and on a second or third glance, the 500’s DNA is evident in the dashboard styling. Its chic pretensions are best illustrated by the options list which includes Beats audio upgrades and a Lavazza coffee maker in the centre console. Very zeitgeist.

The 1.6-litre diesel offers adequate performance, but there’s little joy in pushing past 3000rpm; gentle progress is best. Press on and the engine makes itself heard, but at a more sedate pace refinement is perfectly acceptable. Although we only tested the car two-up, it seems likely that with all seats occupied the engine may have its work cut out.

The six-speed manual is fairly slick, which is just as well as automatic transmissions are limited to 1.3-litre diesel variants only.

Fiat has revised the suspension set-up with, what it says to be, a focus on improving comfort for the third row of passengers. In the front and second row at least, the ride is smooth, although bigger bumps can intrude into the cabin and the 500L MPW can get caught off-guard by bumps mid-corner. The steering is as precise as you’d expect, and there’s a City mode which makes it easier to manoeuvre the car at low speeds.

Fiat doesn’t claim the 500L MPW is a seven seater, and given the lack of space for the third row of occupants, its 5+2 tag is pushing things slightly. Nevertheless, the fact that this many seats can be installed in such a small car will be a tantalising prospect for many. It becomes easier to justify by thinking of it as a pure five seater with a big boot.