The 2008's identity crisis is partly solved, but as this is a mild update rather than ground-up rebuild, it was never going to be the CX-3 killer product planners dream about. With the new engine and transmission, though, the range is more appealing and easier to make sense of. It retains what made the car so original at launch, with the polarising i-Cockpit, clever-on-a-budget interior detailing and, as it turns out, it's a tough customer loved by rural folk. All of this won't rocket the Frenchie to market leadership, but it puts it in the mix where it was previously too confusing an idea for many buyers.
Pros New engine and trans combo Interior still cool CarPlay across the range
Cons Tight rear seats Grumbly engine at low revs Some cheap plastics
Previously overlooked small SUV gets a dose of credible performance from its new drivetrain.One of the legacy products from PSA (Peugeot and Citroen), the 2008 has been hamstrung since its local launch in 2013 by a poor selection of drivetrains. That is now resolved with the introduction of a facelifted model powered by the sparkling 1.2-litre turbo three-cylinder, driving through a six-speed automatic transmission. A reversing camera and new connectivity technology further enhance the 2008 package, all for no more than $1000 extra at entry level. In the 2008 the new engine is quieter still than it was in the light hatch. The engine rarely made its presence felt in the SUV unless it was under load, accelerating up hill, for instance – when its distinctive three-cylinder warble could be clearly heard.
The new-look 2017 Peugeot 2008 has arrived,with the more muscled looking mini SUV axing its diesel engine offering and adding new safety and technology equipment. The new model range is a petrol only affair, with the brand’s 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo engine and six-speed automatic transmission aimed at appealing squarely at the majority of front-wheel-drive SUV buyers. Styling wise, the revised 2008 sees the adoption of the brand’s family look, with a more pronounced grille, more angular bumper and revised headlights and tail-lights. The GT-Line model stands out from the other models with extra body cladding, black exterior highlights and more.
With more personality than most small crossovers, the Fiat 500X is definitely worth a look.Fiat has a real chance to win over American buyers with the 500X, which is certainly its most mainstream offering here—perhaps ever. With the 500X, Fiat finally has a mainstream vehicle with widespread appeal. It's a compact crossover SUV that shares running gear with the Jeep Renegade. Rivals include the Honda HR-V, Buick Encore and Chevy Trax, and the Mazda CX-3.
Pros Tidy exterior styling Just right proportions Above average ride and handling More characterful than most rivals
Cons Automatic gearbox can be touchy Sunroof steals head room, especially in back Small infotainment screens Not an off roader
The number of available trims has decreased from five to three, and options packages have been consolidated and renamed. Otherwise, the 2017 Fiat 500X is unchanged.
Pros Distinctive and well-made cabin with easy-to-use tech controls Reasonably priced Offers safety features not usually available in this class.
Cons So-so fuel economy Confused and clunky automatic transmission Meager cargo room.
The 2017 FIAT 500X ranks 10 out of 12 Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 Fiat 500X may have supermodel looks compared to its subcompact SUV rivals, but this chic SUV ranks toward the back of the pack for its unrefined engines, few standard features, and low predicted reliability rating.
Pros Upmarket interior Very maneuverable Easy-to-use infotainment system
Cons Lackluster engines Few standard features
