The 2021 Fiat 500X Got Abysmal Consumer Reports Scores
The 2021 Fiat 500X is one of the smallest and most affordable extra-small compact SUVs. The 500X offers a decent amount of tech features and driving aids to make it a truly modern car, but there are a lot of areas where the friendly SUV is lacking. Consumer Reports has some rather interesting notes to make about the vehicle, and while some of them were quite comical, the great majority touched on the areas in which the Fiat 500X needs to improve — and there are quite a few.
Does Consumer Reports recommend the 2021 Fiat 500X?
The simple answer to this question is: no. In fact, Consumer Reports gave the 2021 Fiat 500X pretty abysmal ratings in just about every category, resulting in a low overall score of just 31 — and, for the record, that’s out of a total possible score of 100, which, by grade school standards, means the Fiat 500X got a big F. Of course, not everything about the SUV made it a bad vehicle, with a few key points that make it still worth buying for the right owner. But, purchasing the 500X does mean overlooking a few glaring flaws.
The Fiat 500X has a few glaring issues
There are more than a few concerning ratings for the 2021 Fiat 500X. In fact, the list of “Lows” heavily outweighs the list of “Highs,” evident by a quick scroll through the site. The stiff, noisy ride of the 500X is paired with harsh transmission shifting and an uncomfortable idle, making for an unexpectedly unpleasant driving experience. It is also the worst-rated compact SUV for predicted reliability, receiving the lowest score possible, which could make drivers looking for family-friendly vehicles think twice.
If you’re opting for an SUV over a sedan or coupe, chances are you want something that offers a bit of space. Even with small crossover options like the Fiat 500X, we still expect an SUV to give us more room than a car. That isn’t the case here, either. The front and rear seats are rather crowded, and combined with minimal cargo capacity, the car can feel pretty cramped altogether.
Some notable and redeeming qualities
There are a few redeeming qualities for the 2021 Fiat 500X, according to Consumer Reports. My personal favorite among the list of ‘Highs’ is the direct comparison to the character Luigi from the children’s movie Cars. It is also noted to have a few luxury features that can be optioned on with the higher trim levels, too. As a miniature crossover, the 500X does offer a tight turning radius and is easier to navigate heavy traffic and park than larger counterparts.
Every car has its pros and cons, and each driver takes these into consideration when it comes time to purchase. For the right driver, the 2021 Fiat 500X is a great option, even if Consumer Reports doesn’t necessarily think it’s worth the money.
