The Fiat 500X Cross/City Cross, specifically the facelifted version introduced in August 2018, represented Fiat’s entry into the increasingly popular subcompact crossover SUV segment. This variant, powered by the 1.0 FireFly Turbo engine producing 120 horsepower, was offered through the 2022 model year. It built upon the original 500X launched in 2015, aiming to broaden the model’s appeal with a more rugged aesthetic and improved efficiency. The 500X, and particularly the Cross/City Cross trims, were primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, offering a stylish and practical alternative to larger, more conventional SUVs. This 1.0 FireFly Turbo configuration occupied a mid-range position within the 500X lineup, slotting below the more powerful 1.3-liter and diesel options, and above the base 1.2-liter engine where available.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | 500X |
| Generation | 500X Cross/City Cross (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 FireFly Turbo (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | August, 2018 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.0-7.9 l/100 km (33.6 – 29.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.0-5.1 l/100 km (47 – 46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8-6.0 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 133-139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 90.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 143.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 1750 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 552 82 151 |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 70 mm (2.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l (3.49 US qt | 2.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1000 l (35.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l (12.68 US gal | 10.56 UK gal) |
| Length | 4269 mm (168.07 in.) |
| Width | 1796 mm (70.71 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2025 mm (79.72 in.) |
| Height | 1603 mm (63.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm (101.18 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 157 mm (6.18 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.05 m (36.25 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this 500X variant is the 1.0 FireFly Turbo engine, a three-cylinder, inline gasoline engine. This engine, designated with code 552 82 151, represents a significant step forward in Fiat’s engine technology. It features direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler, allowing it to produce 120 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine’s compact size and lightweight construction contribute to the 500X’s overall efficiency. The 500X Cross/City Cross 1.0 FireFly Turbo was exclusively offered with a six-speed manual transmission, prioritizing fuel economy and driver engagement over the convenience of an automatic. This transmission was chosen to complement the engine’s torque characteristics, providing adequate acceleration and responsiveness for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0 FireFly Turbo-equipped 500X offers a balanced driving experience. While not exceptionally quick – achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 10.4 seconds – it provides sufficient power for urban and highway driving. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, particularly at lower engine speeds, making overtaking maneuvers manageable. The six-speed manual transmission allows drivers to maintain optimal engine speed for efficiency or performance. Compared to the more powerful 1.3-liter engine, the 1.0 FireFly Turbo prioritizes fuel economy and a lighter feel. It’s less suited for aggressive driving or frequent hauling of heavy loads, but it excels in providing a comfortable and economical daily commute. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 500X Cross/City Cross 1.0 FireFly Turbo typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features including ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. The “Cross” trim level, in particular, added more rugged styling cues, such as off-road-inspired bumpers and side skirts. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded upholstery. Interior materials were generally of good quality, with a focus on creating a stylish and comfortable cabin. The City Cross trim offered a slightly more urban-focused aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The 500X utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. The suspension setup is tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride over uneven surfaces. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system, offering precise control and a responsive feel. The weight distribution is well-balanced, contributing to the vehicle’s stability and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat 500X 1.0 FireFly Turbo was generally well-received by critics for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to other subcompact crossovers, such as the Renault Captur or Peugeot 2008, the 500X offered a unique blend of Italian flair and practicality. Its fuel economy was competitive, but not class-leading. Reliability reports were generally positive, with few major issues reported with the 1.0 FireFly Turbo engine.
Legacy
The 1.0 FireFly Turbo engine has proven to be a reliable and efficient powerplant in the Fiat 500X and other Fiat models. The 500X itself has established a loyal following, particularly in Europe, as a stylish and practical urban crossover. On the used car market, the 1.0 FireFly Turbo variant represents a good value proposition, offering a balance of affordability, fuel economy, and features. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, it provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience for everyday use. The engine’s relatively simple design and readily available parts contribute to its long-term maintainability.
