The new Fiat 600 Hybrid arrives in Japan! A detailed explanation of the price, fuel economy, design, and equipment – ​​A look at the appeal of the brand’s first mild hybrid SUV

The long-awaited new model, the Fiat 600 Hybrid, has been added to the lineup of the popular Fiat 600 (Seicento) SUV, and was finally released in the Japanese market on May 27, 2025. This ambitious new model is Fiat’s first to feature a mild hybrid system, and is attracting a great deal of attention as a vehicle that symbolizes the brand’s new electrification strategy.

Fiat’s new strategy in the Japanese market: Introduction of the first mild hybrid and attractive pricing

The price range for the Fiat 600 Hybrid is set at 3.65 million to 4.19 million yen, with the top grade “La Prima” being offered at a launch price of 3.99 million yen, a 200,000 yen discount, limited to 600 units, making it an attractively priced model. The Fiat 600’s electric vehicle (BEV) model, the 600e, was introduced in Japan in September 2024 and was well received for its unique design and advanced features. The newly added 600 Hybrid brings the option of an internal combustion engine to the 600 series, aiming to meet the needs of an even wider range of customers.

A first for Fiat! Details of the newly developed 48V mild hybrid system

The powertrain is a new-generation 48V mild hybrid system that combines a newly developed 1.2-liter inline 3-cylinder gasoline turbo engine with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with a built-in electric motor. This system is being adopted for the first time by the Fiat brand, and with the assistance of the electric motor, it generates powerful torque from start to low speeds, providing an extremely smooth and comfortable acceleration feeling.

Smooth acceleration and excellent efficiency: Enabling electric assist and EV driving

What is particularly noteworthy is the outstanding efficiency achieved by this mild hybrid system. Depending on driving conditions, it is possible to run the vehicle 100% on the electric motor alone at speeds up to approximately 30 km/h. It is said that the engine can be shut off for approximately 50% of the time, particularly in urban areas where there are frequent waits at traffic lights and traffic jams. This dramatically improves practical fuel economy in urban areas. The engine is the primary power source when driving at constant speeds on highways, and at medium speeds, the system skillfully switches between the engine and motor depending on driving conditions, achieving efficient driving. The total output of the entire system reaches 145 horsepower, achieving a high level of balance between light driving pleasure and environmental friendliness.

Retro-modern meets SUV style: the design philosophy of the new Fiat 600 Hybrid

Looking at the exterior design, the new Fiat 600 Hybrid beautifully combines the retro-modern charm inherited from the Fiat 500 series with the powerful crossover style unique to an SUV. The design is inspired by the original Fiat 600, which appeared in 1955, and the modern icon, the Fiat 500e, and its essence is scattered throughout.

“BIG SMILE” concept and iconic details

The front face is based on the “BIG SMILE” concept, with adorable headlights representing the eyes, expressing a mischievous smile. The number “600” is subtly placed on the front grille, headlights, and taillights, which have reduced openings, emphasizing the car’s design and identity. The “FIAT” logo is placed on the rear, tightening the overall styling. Gloss black accent parts are used throughout, and together with the 18-inch diamond-cut aluminum wheels, they highlight the car’s sophisticated and rugged look.

Dressed in Italian colours: an attractive range of body colours

The lineup of body colors is also attractive. In addition to the three colors “Sunset Orange,” “Sky Blue,” and “White” that evoke the vivid scenery of Italy, a new color “Sea Green,” inspired by the beautiful Italian sea, has been added exclusively for the hybrid model, making a total of four colors to choose from. These colors exude Fiat’s unique playfulness and attention to design.

Compact body and practical packaging that fits Japanese roads

The body measures 4,200mm long, 1,780mm wide, 1,595mm high, and has a wheelbase of 2,560mm, making it a compact design suited to Japanese road conditions. The mild hybrid model weighs 1,300kg, while the EV model “600e” weighs 1,580kg. Compared to the previously sold SUV model, the Fiat 500X (4,280mm long, 1,795mm wide, 1,610mm high), it is slightly more compact and easier to handle. Furthermore, the adoption of the Stellantis Group’s latest platform improves space efficiency, ensuring practical interior and luggage space. Incidentally, the Jeep brand’s “Avenger” (4,075mm long, 1,750mm wide, 1,630mm high) also shares its base.

A high-quality interior space that embodies “Dolce Vita” and inspiration from the original 600

The interior design also blends Fiat tradition with the latest technology. Iconic design elements from the original Fiat 600, such as the two-spoke steering wheel, round meter cluster, and oval dashboard panel, have been reinterpreted in a modern style, allowing passengers to fully experience the world of “Dolce Vita” (the sweet life) advocated by Fiat. The base model is equipped with a dashboard panel in the same color as the body and black fabric seats with the FIAT monogram. Meanwhile, the higher-grade “La Prima” features an ivory dashboard panel and eco-leather seats with the same FIAT monogram, creating an even more luxurious and sophisticated space.

Advanced digital interface: 7-inch meter and 10.25-inch Uconnect system

The driver interface features a highly visible 7-inch digital meter cluster and a large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, “Uconnect,” located in the center of the dashboard. This system is wirelessly compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly use your smartphone’s functions in the car. A variety of functions, including navigation, music playback, and phone calls, can be intuitively operated.

Class-leading load capacity and ample storage space

It also boasts excellent utility, with a class-leading luggage space of 385 liters under normal conditions (360 liters for the EV model 600e). Furthermore, by folding down the rear seats, the capacity can be expanded to a maximum of 1,256 liters (1,231 liters for the EV model 600e), allowing for ample storage of large items. Additionally, around the front seats, there is ample storage space totaling approximately 30 liters, including a large-capacity 15-liter center console, greatly improving everyday usability.

Achieving 23.2km/L in WLTC mode: Excellent economy thanks to mild hybrid technology

The car achieves an excellent fuel economy of 23.2km/L in WLTC mode, thanks to the efficient energy management of the mild hybrid system. This is one of the attractions of this SUV, as it is highly economical.

State-of-the-art safety features: Includes advanced systems being used for the first time in the Fiat brand

The latest safety and driver assistance systems are also generously incorporated, with many being adopted for the first time in the Fiat brand, reducing the burden on the driver and supporting a safe and comfortable drive.

A variety of driving assistance technologies to enhance safety and comfort

Specifically, these include “Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC, with Stop & Go function)” which detects vehicles traveling ahead and maintains an appropriate distance, “Lane Position Assist” which assists steering to maintain a desired position within the lane, “Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)” which warns of lane departure and also makes steering corrections, “Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)” which recognizes road signs and displays them on the display, “Blind Spot Monitor” which detects vehicles in blind spots and warns, “Forward Collision Warning (FCW)” which warns of the risk of a forward collision, “Collision Mitigation Braking” with pedestrian detection function, and “Driver Attention Alert” which detects and warns of driver fatigue or a decrease in attention.These are all standard equipment or available depending on the grade.

Furthermore, as a comfort feature, the driver’s seat is equipped with an “active lumbar support” relaxation function to reduce driver fatigue. Other features that enhance convenience, such as a “hands-free power liftgate” that automatically opens and closes the tailgate by simply waving your foot over the bottom of the rear bumper even when your hands are full with luggage, and a “keyless entry (with proximity sensor)” that automatically locks the vehicle when you are about one meter away and automatically unlocks it when you get within about three meters of the vehicle, are also available, supporting the driver in a variety of everyday situations.

Another option: Overview of the electric car “Fiat 600e”

Let’s also take a look at the electric vehicle model “Fiat 600e,” another face of the Fiat 600 series. This model is equipped with a front-mounted electric motor that generates a maximum output of 156 horsepower and a maximum torque of 27.5 kgm, achieving a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 9 seconds. The battery capacity is 54 kWh, and the range per charge is 493 km in the European WLTP cycle (Japan specification), which is sufficient for everyday use.

Pursuing the ultimate driving pleasure: Abarth 600e and its limited edition “Scorpionissima”

Additionally, the Abarth 600e, a high-performance model based on the Fiat 600e, is available overseas. This model is tuned to befit the name of Abarth, Fiat’s high-performance brand. Even the standard Turismo grade boasts significantly increased maximum output of 240 horsepower and maximum torque of 35.2 kgm, boasting a swift 0-100 km/h acceleration of 6.24 seconds. Drivers can choose the optimal driving mode for each situation from three driving modes: Turismo, Scorpion Street, and Scorpion Track. The front-wheel drive system is equipped with a Torsen limited-slip differential (LSD), achieving outstanding traction and cornering performance.

The Abarth 600e also features a specially designed exterior, with aggressive front and rear bumpers, large 20-inch alloy wheels, and a large rear spoiler. The braking system employs high-performance brakes from Alcon, the suspension is sport-tuned, and an anti-roll bar has been added to the rear. The track has also been widened, and the driving battery is equipped with a dedicated cooling system to maximize performance. The interior is equipped with Sabelt bucket seats with integrated headrests that securely hold the driver’s body and support sporty driving.

In addition, there is also the limited edition “Scorpionissima,” which will be produced in only 1,949 units, in honor of the year the Abarth brand was founded (1949). This special model has a maximum output of 280 horsepower and achieves an astonishing 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 5.85 seconds. These Abarth models are the choice for enthusiasts who want to maximize the potential of the Fiat 600 and pursue driving pleasure.

Strategic Pricing: Fiat 600 Hybrid Grades and Price Details

Now, let’s return to the topic of the Fiat 600 Hybrid introduced to the Japanese market. The base grade of the 600 Hybrid is priced at 3.65 million yen, while the 600 Hybrid La Prima is priced at 4.19 million yen.

A great launch price has also been set! The Italian SUV has become more accessible.

As mentioned above, to commemorate the release of the 600 Hybrid La Prima, a launch price of 3.99 million yen has been set, with only 600 units available, a 200,000 yen discount from the regular price. This is a very good deal. For reference, the electric model FIAT 600e La Prima is priced at 5.55 million yen. With the arrival of this new hybrid model, the Fiat 600’s price range will be more accessible, making it an attractive option for a wider range of customers.

The Fiat 600 Hybrid shows the future of the brand and its impact on the market

With the introduction of the new Fiat 600 Hybrid, Fiat is strengthening its lineup of its flagship SUV, the Fiat 600, as part of its strategy to respond precisely to the diverse needs of the market.

A word from the editorial department

With the appeal of traditional Italian design, excellent fuel economy and driving performance thanks to the latest mild hybrid technology, and advanced safety and comfort features, the Fiat 600 Hybrid is expected to be a breath of fresh air in Japan’s compact SUV market. Its stylish appearance and high level of practicality will provide the driver and passengers with a “Dolce Vita” experience in all situations, from everyday transportation to weekend leisure trips. The arrival of this vehicle, which represents a new challenge for Fiat, is not to be missed not only by fans of the brand, but also by many people seeking a unique compact SUV.

Fiat

https://www.fiat-auto.co.jp

Stellantis News Release

https://www.stellantis.jp/news/20250526_fiat_600_hybrid