The Fiat 500L Living/Wagon, specifically the 0.9 TwinAir (105 hp) Turbo 7-seat variant, was produced from 2013 to 2018. Positioned as a more practical and spacious iteration of the popular Fiat 500, the 500L aimed to capture a broader segment of the European market seeking a small MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle). The “Living/Wagon” designation refers to the extended wheelbase and increased cargo capacity compared to the standard 500L. This particular 105 hp version with a manual transmission served as a mid-range offering, balancing fuel efficiency with acceptable performance for family use. It was designed to appeal to buyers needing the versatility of seven seats and a larger boot, without the expense of higher-powered engines or premium trim levels.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | 500L |
| Generation | 500L Living/Wagon |
| Type (Engine) | 0.9 TwinAir (105 Hp) Turbo 7 Seat |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 112 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.6 kg/Hp, 79.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.1 kg/Nm, 109.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 120 Hp/l |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 2000 rpm (106.95 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 199B6000 |
| Engine displacement | 875 cm3 (53.4 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 2 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l (3.49 US qt | 2.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1584 l (55.94 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Length | 4352 mm (171.34 in.) |
| Width | 1784 mm (70.24 in.) |
| Height | 1667 mm (65.63 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2612 mm (102.83 in.) |
| Front track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Rear track | 1519 mm (59.8 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this 500L variant is Fiat’s 875cc (53.4 cubic inch) TwinAir two-cylinder turbocharged engine, designated the 199B6000. This engine is a significant departure from traditional inline-four designs, offering reduced friction and weight. The TwinAir utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver a surprisingly punchy 105 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 145 Nm (106.95 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine’s small displacement and turbocharging contribute to its relatively good fuel economy. The engine features a timing belt, requiring periodic replacement as part of scheduled maintenance. The transmission is a six-speed manual, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement, although an automated manual transmission (Dualogic) was also available.
Driving Characteristics
The 105 hp TwinAir engine in the 500L Living/Wagon provides adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.1 seconds, and top speed is approximately 111.85 mph. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, but the engine can feel strained when fully loaded with passengers and luggage, especially on inclines. The six-speed manual transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the 1.4-liter petrol or 1.3-liter diesel versions, the TwinAir offers a more responsive driving experience, but lacks the outright power of the larger engines. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, which can sometimes result in the need to downshift frequently when overtaking or climbing hills.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 500L Living/Wagon 0.9 TwinAir 105 hp typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, power windows and mirrors, and remote central locking. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features like parking sensors, a rearview camera, automatic climate control, and upgraded upholstery. Interior materials were generally durable and practical, reflecting the vehicle’s family-oriented focus. The 7-seat configuration featured a folding third-row bench, providing flexibility for occasional passengers or increased cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The 500L Living/Wagon utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not particularly sporty. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort and stability over handling precision. The weight distribution is relatively balanced, contributing to predictable handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat 500L Living/Wagon was generally well-received by critics for its spacious interior, versatile seating configuration, and fuel-efficient engines. However, some reviewers criticized the styling as somewhat awkward and the driving experience as unremarkable. The 0.9 TwinAir engine was praised for its fuel economy and responsiveness, but some found it to be noisy and lacking in outright power. Compared to rivals like the Renault Scenic or Citroen C4 Picasso, the 500L offered a more affordable price point but lacked some of the refinement and features of those models. Fuel economy figures of around 49 US mpg combined were competitive for the segment.
Legacy
The Fiat 500L Living/Wagon, including the 0.9 TwinAir variant, has established a reputation for reasonable reliability, although the TwinAir engine has been known to experience occasional issues with turbocharger failure or oil leaks. The engine’s complexity requires diligent maintenance. On the used car market, these models represent a relatively affordable option for families seeking a practical and fuel-efficient MPV. Parts availability is generally good, and repair costs are moderate. The 500L’s unique styling and spacious interior continue to appeal to buyers looking for an alternative to more conventional MPVs.
