Italian carmakerFiat has released a facelifted version of its 500X compact SUV. The new car brings new enginesand new technology in a thoroughly redesigned new package.

Despite slow South African sales, the Fiat 500X was one of the top five best-selling models in its segment since 2016 in continental Europe. Now it has been facelifted and the changes are substantial. There's a new look complete with all-new LED light clusters and full-LED headlights, which are claimed to be vastly superior to the outgoing units.Depending on trim, you get all-new front and rear bumpers, while the off-road-focused models receive new-look protective skid plates. Speaking of trim, there are two, Urban forcity traffic and the Cross, which features all-wheel drive and is more suited to out-of-town adventures.

The cabin has also received a makeover and there's now a focus on premium materials and practicality. There are a choice of 7 different finishes, combining fabric, leather and colours. The restyled cockpit features a new-look instrument cluster with easier-to-read graphics and there's a new steering wheel. There's a focus on safety technology in the new Fiat 500X. Traffic Sign Recognition is now standard as is the Speed Adviser. Optional equipment ranges from Blind Spot alert, Active Cruise Control and Autonomous Emergency Braking. The cellphone-obsessed generation will be pleased to hear that Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity is available too.

There are new engines too, and the Fiat 500X will be receiving the all-new three-cylinder engine which we first saw on the brand's sister offering, the Jeep Renegade. The new petrol engines are claimed to be up to 20% more fuel efficient, while the diesel models will be quieter. First up is a 90 kW/190 Nm 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol motor, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive. The next is a 1.3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder motor with 110 kW and 270 Nm, which is available with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission and front-wheel drive. There are three turbodiesel engines for the Fiat 500X. Available in 1.3, 1.6 and 2.0 flavours, all offer new levels of refinement and efficiency. The 1.3 offers up 70 kW/200 Nm, 1.6 has 90 kW and 320 Nm, while the range-topper has 110 kW and 350 Nm.

We'll have more details for the South African market as we expect the Fiat 500X to arrive in SA either at the end of 2018 or start of 2019.

Apple Carplay and Android Auto are available in the 2019 Fiat 500X

Further Reading

Fiat 500X (2015) First Drive

Fiat 500X 1.4T Cross Plus (2015) Review

Fiat 500X: In-Depth Video Review – Styling & Pricing

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