The Fiat 600 range is expanding to include a new, entry-level option with a petrol engine. This version joins the existing hybrid and electric variants, and its arrival is also celebrated with a new special edition. This strategic move by Fiat is a response to the slower transition towards electric vehicles and customers’ desire for more affordable and traditional powertrains.
New engine and the return of the manual gearbox
The new model, known as the 600 Petrol, is a five-door hatchback designed for “customers who enjoy a simple, direct and engaging driving experience.” While the company hasn’t revealed all the details, the model has been confirmed to feature a variable geometry turbocharged engine, a silent timing chain and a high-pressure direct injection system. According to Carscoops, the engine develops 100 hp (74 kW) and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. It sounds like the same powertrain found in the Grande Panda model, which means a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine.
The move is part of Stellantis’ broader strategy to adapt to market conditions. While the Fiat 600 is built on the e-CMP2 platform that was primarily developed for electric vehicles, its flexibility is now used to accommodate an internal combustion engine. The decision was prompted by weaker sales of the electric model 600e and surprisingly great success of the hybrid version in key European markets. With the introduction of a pure petrol engine with a manual gearbox, Fiat aims for a significantly lower starting price, which could be around 20,000 euros, making the model significantly more affordable than the hybrid (around 25,000 euros) and electric variants (around 35,000 euros).
The new petrol engine will be available in all trim levels, which means we can expect the base model 600 Petrol Pop with LED lights and 16-inch steel wheels. The model should also have a relatively simple interior with a 7-inch digital instrument panel, 10-inch infotainment system and automatic air conditioning.
More richly equipped variants will offer 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels, as well as chrome details and tinted rear windows. Customers can also expect ambient lighting, a self-dimming rearview mirror, a wireless charger for smartphones and optional leather seats.
Special edition 600 Petrol Street Edition
To celebrate the launch, Fiat prepared a special edition called the Street Edition. It stands out with a two-tone exterior with a gloss black radiator grille, black door handles and black badges. The model also has black 18-inch alloy wheels and “Street” lettering in red and chrome.
The dark theme continues inside with a black instrument panel and roof lining. They are joined by black seats with “FIAT” lettering, white contrast stitching and the 600 model designation. Production will be limited to just 2,000 examples, but there is no information on the price of this special edition at this time.
