“i own a fiat 500 and i love my car, i love how small the car is but still have a lot of room on the inside”
2018 FIAT 500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2018 FIAT 500 is a standard 135-hp turbocharged engine for Pop and Lounge models, replacing the previous 101-hp engine. This is a meaningful late-cycle update rather than a full redesign.
About the 2018 FIAT 500
North American first generation (2012-2019), late-cycle mechanical and equipment update year.
The FIAT 500 is a tiny retro-styled city car built around personality, easy maneuvering, and distinctive Italian design more than space or long-trip practicality. FIAT’s messaging centers on minimalist style, playful driving character, and the option of a folding-roof Cabrio version for open-air fun. Compared with more conventional small cars, the 500’s biggest draw is how unique, compact, and expressive it feels in everyday urban driving.
The Pop is the simple, city-friendly version, while the Lounge adds comfort features such as heated leather-trimmed seats and automatic climate control. Cabrio versions have a power-folding fabric roof, and the late-arriving 1957 Retro Editions add vintage FIAT badges, two-tone details, and a heritage-themed cabin.
What changed, by category
Powertrain and handling
Pop and Lounge models switch from a 101-hp engine with 97 lb-ft of torque to a 135-hp turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder with 150 lb-ft. A sport-tuned suspension and performance four-wheel disc brakes also become standard.
Styling
The regular 500 range gets sportier front and rear styling, lower side body trim, fog lamps, and a rear spoiler. The late-availability 1957 Retro Edition and 1957 Retro Edition Cabrio add vintage FIAT badging, two-tone exterior details, and retro cabin trim.
Tech
A 5-inch touchscreen system with Bluetooth becomes standard across the trims covered here.
Trim lineup
The Pop Cabrio and Lounge Cabrio join the listed lineup, along with the late-availability 1957 Retro Edition and 1957 Retro Edition Cabrio.
2018 FIAT 500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, MultiAir, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, MultiAir, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, MultiAir, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, MultiAir, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, MultiAir, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/AutoStick | Automatic, 6-Spd w/AutoStick | Automatic, 6-Spd HD | Automatic, 6-Spd HD | Automatic, 6-Spd w/AutoStick | |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 32 mpg | 32 mpg | 33 mpg | 33 mpg | 32 mpg | 32 mpg |
| Horsepower | 135 hp | 135 hp | 135 hp | 135 hp | 135 hp | 135 hp |
| Torque | 150 lb-ft | 150 lb-ft | 150 lb-ft | 150 lb-ft | 150 lb-ft | 150 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 9.5 cu-ft | 9.5 cu-ft | 5.4 cu-ft | 5.4 cu-ft | 9.5 cu-ft | 5.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.7 in | 31.7 in | 31.7 in | 31.7 in | 31.7 in | 31.7 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||||||
| Park Assist | ||||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||||
| Power Retractable Soft Top | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||||
| USB Ports | ||||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2018 FIAT 500?
The biggest change is the standard 135-hp turbocharged 1.4-liter engine in Pop and Lounge models. It replaces the previous 101-hp engine and raises torque from 97 to 150 lb-ft.
Is the 2018 FIAT 500 more powerful than the 2017 model?
Yes. The 2018 Pop and Lounge make 135 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, compared with 101 horsepower and 97 lb-ft in 2017.
Did the 2018 FIAT 500 get handling upgrades?
Yes. A sport-tuned suspension and performance four-wheel disc brakes become standard for 2018, giving the regular 500 range a sportier setup.
What are the 2018 FIAT 500 1957 Retro Editions?
The 1957 Retro Editions are late-availability heritage models based on the Lounge and Lounge Cabrio. They pair the 2018 turbo engine and comfort equipment with vintage FIAT badges, two-tone details, retro cabin trim, and leather-trimmed seats.
Is the 2018 FIAT 500 a full redesign?
No. The 2018 model remains part of the same North American generation that began for 2012, but it receives a substantial late-cycle engine, handling, styling, and equipment update.
2018 FIAT 500 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 FIAT 500.
4.1
2018 FIAT 500
(80 reviews)
“A very fun car to own. The right amount of power to have fun on the highway and the mountain roads.”
“ProsGreat commuter. ZippyComfortableNavigationNo More Gas!ConsBattery life suffers in the cold, when you use the AC and when on the freeway. No spare tire.”