2020 FIAT 500L Review

Several Fiats share the 500 name, so let's clear up any confusion. The standard Fiat 500 is a small two-door hatchback, the 500X is a crossover SUV with a bit of a rugged image, and the 2020 Fiat 500L is a wagon. Compared to its siblings, the 500L is more spacious and practical. Unfortunately, that's where the relatively short list of virtues worth extolling runs out.

Few automakers make small wagons anymore, so perhaps Fiat deserves some credit for the 500L. But compared to the latest batch of small crossovers, the 500L is decidedly dated. The interior materials are particularly disappointing, with lots of hard plastic dominating the cabin. Once you're rolling, the 500L is loud and uncomfortable on the highway. What's more, the 500L's price isn't low enough to make it a true bargain.

We like what Fiat's trying to accomplish with its 500L. But if you take some time to test drive more recently redesigned crossovers such as the Kia Soul, Honda HR-V and Hyundai Kona, you'll get an immediate sense of where the Fiat 500L falls flat.