Is the Fiat 500e Still a Smart Choice in 2025’s Crowded Small EV Market?
If you’ve been eyeing the electric car scene lately, you’ve probably noticed just how fast things are changing. New models seem to pop up every month, each promising to be the next big thing. So where does that leave the Fiat 500e, especially as we roll into 2025? Let’s dig in and see if this pint-sized Italian still deserves a spot on your shortlist.
What’s Changed (and What Hasn’t) with the Fiat 500e?
Here’s the honest truth: Fiat hasn’t exactly reinvented the wheel with the latest 500e. Instead of major overhauls, the updates are mostly cosmetic—think new color options and a few tweaks here and there. Some might call that playing it safe, but there’s another way to look at it. The 500e was already a bold little car, both in style and in its decision to use a unique electric platform rather than the group-standard e-CMP hardware favored by its Stellantis siblings.
That decision, by the way, raised some eyebrows at the corporate level. But it also gave the 500e a distinct personality—something you can’t always say about today’s cookie-cutter EVs.
How Has the 500e Fared in Europe’s Shifting EV Landscape?
Let’s talk numbers. When the 500e first hit European roads in 2021, it made quite a splash. In its first full year in the UK, nearly 5,000 units found homes. Across Europe, it even snagged the title of best-selling small EV in 2023. Not too shabby for a car with such deep roots in city driving.
But here’s where things get tricky. While petrol-powered Fiat 500s continue to sell like hotcakes—over 10,000 a year in the UK alone—the electric version’s sales have slowed to a crawl, dipping below 1,000 units. It’s not just about the car itself; the small EV market is suddenly packed with fresh faces, many offering more range or tech for the money.
What Are Your Options with the 2025 Fiat 500e?
Fiat keeps things simple but flexible. You can choose between two battery sizes: a smaller pack with a less powerful motor, or a beefier 42kWh battery that delivers more punch and range. If you’re dreaming of open-air drives, the 500e Cabrio—with its retractable fabric roof—only comes with the larger battery.
Trim-wise, there are four flavors: the entry-level model, the Red edition (which we tested), La Prima, and the ultra-exclusive Giorgio Armani Collector’s Edition. The first two trims let you pick your battery and motor, while the higher-end La Prima and Armani versions are strictly paired with the bigger battery.
How Does the 500e Stack Up Against the Competition?
This is where things get interesting. The small EV class is more competitive than ever, with newcomers from established brands and ambitious startups alike. Many rivals now offer longer ranges, faster charging, or more advanced tech at similar price points. For example, recent data from the European Automobile Manufacturers Association shows that small EV sales are up 30% year-over-year, with models like the Renault Zoe and Peugeot e-208 gaining ground.
So why would you still consider the 500e? For starters, its compact size and nimble handling make it a joy in tight city streets. It’s also got a certain charm—call it Italian flair—that’s hard to replicate. And while the range isn’t class-leading, it’s more than enough for most urban commutes.
Is the Fiat 500e a Good Fit for Your Lifestyle?
Here’s the bottom line: if you’re looking for a practical, stylish city car that stands out from the crowd, the 500e still has plenty to offer. It’s not the flashiest or the most high-tech, but it nails the basics and does so with personality. Plus, with multiple trims and battery options, you can tailor it to your needs and budget.
That said, if you regularly drive long distances or need loads of cargo space, you might find better value elsewhere. The small EV market is evolving fast, and it pays to shop around.
The Takeaway: Still Worth a Look, But Know What You’re Getting
In a world where electric cars are getting bigger, bolder, and more complex, the Fiat 500e keeps things refreshingly simple. It’s not trying to be everything to everyone—and that’s part of its appeal. If you want a city-friendly EV with genuine character, it’s still worth a test drive. Just be sure to weigh your options, because the competition isn’t slowing down anytime soon.