2014 Fiat 500L: Out of the Ordinary [First Impression Review]

2014 Fiat 500L front grille review
2014 Fiat 500L

Don’t expect the common small hatchback when getting into the 2014 Fiat 500L. It’s got plenty of Italian flair and unique touches to make your commute out of the ordinary. The double A-pillars up front can make you feel like you are piloting an airplane. Then there are the three-tone interior appointments, a large knob for the 6-speed manual, and a unique wide hand-brake handle. You will not hear a similar put-your-seatbelt-on chime in any other make, and it does force the front occupant to buckle up.

2014_fiat_500l_a_pillar

The 500L is powered by a 1.4L turbocharged Multiair four cylinder engine providing 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The manual transmission in this tester is a welcome addition. However, it does make the turbo-lag a little more evident. Once you get used to the power output of the motor, you can have a blast shifting your own gears. Basically, it means that you have to keep the engine above 2,500 rpm to avoid the very noticeable power lag. When you are higher in the rpms, the engine responds well and turns this family hauler into a fun machine.

2014 fiat 500L dash
2014 Fiat 500L Dash

The 2014 Fiat 500L starts at $19,195 before destination charges, and can get above $27,000 for a fully loaded Lounge model. The 500L comes in front-wheel-drive only.

Come back soon for a more in-depth review on the 500L.  In the meantime, please check out this fun and informative TFLcar first drive review of the 2014 Fiat 500L.

Andre Smirnov
Andre Smirnov

Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been writing and reporting at TFL since 2011. When not working or spending time with the family – you can find him tinkering in the garage or simply ‘going for a drive’.