For many automakers the challenge of entering the subcompact crossover SUV market is a movement toward creating smaller vehicles that can fit into this category. For most of them this means packing the features offered on larger models into a smaller and more cramped area. The opposite challenge presented itself to Fiat when it chose to make the 500X which is the largest Fiat personal vehicle on the road and the one that offers you more space and room for the equipment Fiat adds than any other Fiat model you’ve seen. This is certainly a different direction than the other automakers and it seems to have worked out extremely well.

The Fiat lineup offers you several variations of the 500 to be easy to drive but tiny hatchbacks that are high on style and Italian design but light on the interior space. The 500X makes it easier for you to have the space you need to enjoy in a versatile and higher riding build that does feel like an active and energetic small SUV on the road. This is also the only Fiat model offeree with AWD which makes it even more appealing in colder climates where the weather can turn against you quickly.

When it comes to the features of this small SUV you’ll find the that the Easy and Trekking Plus trims have been gone from the lineup. This leaves the Pop as the base model with a middle Trekking model and the Lounge at the top. This means you’ll be able to have a feature list that includes air conditioning, power windows, six-way power adjustable front seats, a four-speaker audio system and a USB port. Unfortunately this base trim doesn’t come with Bluetooth connectivity or the automatic transmission, both of which are offered on higher trims.

As you move up the trims to the Trekking model you’ll have some added items such as illuminated vanity mirrors, a premium steering wheel, a six speaker audio system, the Uconnect 5.0 system and keyless entry. At the Lounge model you’ll have a 6.5-inch touch screen Uconnect system with a navigation system included, heated and power operated front seats, a heated steering wheel and an eight-speaker audio system. You can also add some impressive optional features as well which include items such as leather upholstery, the Beats Audio system, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, lane keep assist, a rearview camera, forward collision warnings and automatic braking assistance.

Looking in the engine bay will show you the 500X offers you two possible engines to give you the fuel sipping ride that you want in this small SUV. The base engine is a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder model that brings you 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine uses a six-speed manual transmission and brings you the fuel mileage you need with 25 city/33 hwy mpg for you to have the ride you want and the efficiency you need in a small vehicle that offers you the versatility of a higher riding small SUV.

The second engine is the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that allows you to have 180 horsepower and 175 lb.-ft. of torque. This small SUV is offered with a smooth riding nine-speed automatic transmission that is capable of providing you with the power deliver you want and the option of having AWD on this powertrain. You’ll enjoy 22 city/30 hwy mpg in the FWD version of this powertrain and 21 city/29 hwy mpg for the AWD version. The AWD system of the 500X is one that disengages when you don’t need it to allow you an improved fuel number when not in use.

Is the Fiat 500X the right model for you to enjoy the ride on the road? If you’re shopping for a subcompact crossover SUV that will give you the performance you want and the versatility you need for the road ahead, this is certainly a great choice. Add in the Italian design and a low starting price and you’ll find the 500X to be a comfortable and affordable small SUV that gives you what you need and then some. Come check out this little performer at your local Fiat dealer today.