25 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but within the context of the 2018 Fiat 500L’s mission, it’s an understandable compromise. This isn’t a minimalist city car like its smaller 500 sibling; the 500L is a quirky, upright wagon aimed at buyers who prioritize interior space and distinctive styling over ultimate fuel efficiency. These are often young families in urban areas or empty-nesters embracing a more European aesthetic, and for them, the 500L offers a unique blend of practicality and personality that outweighs its middling gas mileage.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Fiat 500L at 22 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban environments, where the 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission are frequently shifting and working harder. The higher highway number demonstrates the engine’s ability to cruise more efficiently at a constant speed. Remember that these are just estimates, and individual driving habits significantly impact real-world results. Aggressive acceleration or consistently exceeding the speed limit will diminish highway MPG, while careful anticipation of traffic flow can improve city fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Fiat 500L at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, the actual cost will vary depending on how many miles you drive annually and the price of gasoline in your area. However, this number provides a useful benchmark for comparing the 500L’s fuel costs with other vehicles. Buyers should carefully consider their typical driving patterns and local fuel prices to determine if this annual expense aligns with their budget.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized assessment, real-world fuel economy often differs. Some drivers report achieving figures close to the EPA estimates, but experiences do vary depending on driving style and conditions. Owners who regularly use the 500L for short city trips with frequent stops may see slightly lower figures, while those who primarily use it for longer highway journeys may achieve slightly better results. Terrain also plays a role; hilly areas will generally reduce fuel efficiency compared to flat landscapes. Reading owner forums and reviews can provide a more nuanced understanding of what to expect in terms of real-world MPG.

How it compares

The Fiat 500L’s fuel economy isn’t particularly impressive compared to some of its competitors. For example, the Honda HR-V, while smaller, achieves a combined 28 MPG with its CVT transmission and available all-wheel drive. Even the larger Kia Soul, a similarly styled but more conservatively designed wagon, manages around 27 MPG combined in its base trim. The Nissan Kicks is at the top of the pack hitting 33 MPG combined. However, those vehicles trade some of the 500L’s unique styling and interior space for better fuel efficiency. For those who value the 500L’s distinctive personality, the slightly lower MPG might be an acceptable trade-off. Buyers should consider all available all Fiat fuel economy data when shopping.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel efficiency. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, especially from a standstill; gradually increase pressure on the accelerator pedal. This allows the engine to operate more efficiently and reduces unnecessary fuel consumption. It’s especially important in the 500L, as the turbocharger can significantly increase fuel use under hard acceleration.

Maintaining proper tire inflation is crucial. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb. Even a small difference in pressure can impact MPG.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds load, requiring the engine to exert more effort. Remove items from the trunk and backseat that you don’t regularly need. A lighter vehicle will always be more fuel-efficient. Think of all the extra items you can remove when considering 500 MPG across all years.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary braking. Coasting to a stop whenever possible minimizes the need for hard braking and acceleration, saving fuel. By reading the road ahead and making small adjustments to your speed, you can maintain momentum and improve fuel economy, especially in urban environments.

Use cruise control on the highway when appropriate. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing fluctuations that can reduce fuel efficiency. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly areas, as the transmission may downshift frequently, negating some of the benefits. Consider manually controlling the gears in these situations instead.