The 2018 Fiat 500 X with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine gets 25 MPG combined. In a world increasingly focused on efficiency, this number might raise eyebrows, but it should be viewed considering what the 500 X is: a stylish, Italian-designed subcompact crossover aimed at urban dwellers who prioritize flair and available all-wheel drive over getting the best gas mileage.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates suggest 22 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure isn’t particularly inspiring, and reflects the engine’s need to work a bit harder in stop-and-go traffic. If you’re considering the 500 X for mainly urban driving, pay close attention to your driving style, as aggressive acceleration will only make fuel consumption worse. The highway number is more respectable, and shows that the nine-speed automatic transmission can keep the engine in its sweet spot for cruising efficiency.

Remember that the 500 X is a relatively small vehicle, and strong crosswinds can impact fuel economy at higher speeds. For a specific view, you can see all Fiat fuel economy data

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for this vehicle at exactly $1,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the agency’s estimate of combined fuel economy, and applying a national average fuel price. Of course, your actual fuel cost will vary depending on how many miles you drive, your driving style, and the prevailing gasoline prices in your area. The $1,750 benchmark is still useful for comparing the running costs of the 500 X to other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing data, real-world fuel economy can often deviate. People who drive these cars say that achieving the EPA combined figure of 25 MPG is possible, but requires effort. Expect the city MPG to fluctuate more dramatically based on traffic conditions and driving habits. Those prioritizing fuel efficiency should avoid frequent hard acceleration and maintain consistent speeds whenever possible. The all-wheel-drive system, while beneficial in inclement weather, will also slightly decrease fuel economy compared to the front-wheel-drive model.

How it compares

The 2018 Fiat 500 X 2.4L’s gas mileage isn’t the best in its class. For example, a Mazda CX-3 with its 2.0L engine consistently achieves around 29 MPG combined, making it a more fuel-efficient choice. The Honda HR-V, especially in front-wheel-drive form, also gets better numbers, often exceeding 30 MPG on the highway. Even the Jeep Renegade, which shares a platform with the 500 X, can sometimes deliver slightly better fuel economy depending on the specific engine and configuration.

Remember that buyers choose the 500 X less for its outright efficiency and more for its distinctive Italian design and available features. If low fuel costs is important, exploring alternatives is critical. For more information, review 500 MPG across all years

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.4L engine in the 500 X responds well to smooth and deliberate throttle inputs. Avoid aggressive acceleration from a standstill, and try to anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking. Gradual acceleration and maintaining a consistent speed will significantly improve fuel economy in both city and highway driving.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Regularly checking and maintaining proper tire pressure is a simple yet effective way to boost your MPG.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying around extra cargo adds to the engine’s workload, negatively impacting fuel efficiency. Remove any items from the trunk or backseat that aren’t essential for your daily commute or activities. A lighter vehicle is a more efficient vehicle.

Take advantage of the nine-speed automatic transmission by letting it shift smoothly through the gears. Avoid using the manual shift mode unless absolutely necessary, as the automatic transmission is programmed to select the most efficient gear for the current driving conditions. Using the automatic setting allows the car to optimize fuel economy by smoothly transitioning between gears.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine. Excessive idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. This is especially relevant in city environments where traffic congestion is common. Restarting the engine uses a small amount of fuel, but it’s less than the fuel burned during prolonged idling.