Test drive Fiat 500X against Renault Captur: urban fashion

First comparison of the 500X with one of the strongest opponents - Renault Captur

The Italian brand Fiat has finally released a model that has every reason to be considered a significant novelty. What's more, the 500X claims to take its rightful place in the particularly popular Old Continent class of compact urban crossovers. The other equally important piece of news that the 500X brings with it is the fact that with it, Fiat has actually taken the first successful step in bringing iconic design traits from the small 500 to an all-new model and gradually (liked by BMW and their British brand MINI) to build a whole family of diverse vehicles with a common design philosophy. While the exterior of the 500X has a typical Italian look, behind the metal sheet of the car hides the technique of a small American - the model is a technological twin of the Jeep Renegade. The body is 4,25 meters long and 1,80 meters wide, but the 500X still looks very cute - almost as small as the tiny Cinquecento. Yes, Fiat has managed to create a car that looks unbelievably cute like a teddy bear on wheels without being childish or ridiculous. The typical Italian design manages to delight at first sight, but at the same time does not cross the line of good taste, striking with manifestations of unnecessary kitsch.

Dual gear? What is our city for?

For those who think a model of this caliber wouldn't be a meaningful purchase without all-wheel drive, the 500X offers an efficient dual-drive system that's also borrowed from Jeep. However, the current comparison includes a front-wheel drive variant, which is expected to power more than half of the vehicles sold. The 1,4-liter turbo petrol engine produces 140 hp and its thrust is transmitted through a six-speed manual transmission. Fiat's adversary is called the Captur TCe 120 and comes standard with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

It is important to note that despite the stock dual-clutch transmission and rich standard equipment, the Renault model is more profitable than the Fiat. On the other hand, at the Lounge level, the Italian model has xenon headlights as standard and can get a wide range of advanced assistance systems not available to Renault. Renault manages to withstand richer multimedia capabilities surpassing what Fiat offers.

Dynamics or comfort

Enough theory, let's move on to the practical part. With a relaxed driving style, the Captur moves briskly and requires minimal effort to steer. The small engine is quiet and smooth, the suspension absorbs bumps smoothly and intelligently. Captur is not one of those cars that predispose to extreme driving. Instead, he prefers to move safely and calmly. If you still insist on more sporty activities, the ESP system will quickly dampen your enthusiasm - the same applies to, among other things, a not very precise steering system. The transmission also prefers a leisurely ride to a fast one - "adjusting" the car along the road to corners, its reactions are a little confused and not entirely adequate.

Fiat, on the other hand, loves serpentines in its path, following the given trajectory obediently and deftly, the tendency to understeer is very weak, and with sharper changes in load it even makes it easier for the driver to lightly control the sliding of the rear end. The engine suits his temperament perfectly. While the 500X's engine isn't as advanced as its Captur counterpart, it responds effortlessly to any throttle - especially when sport mode is activated, which also boosts steering. Gear shifting is also precise and a real pleasure. However, on the other side of the coin is the relatively heavy ride of the 500X.

In terms of driving comfort, the Captur definitely has the upper hand, which is likable among other benefits such as spacious cargo space, a horizontally adjustable rear seat, upholstery that can be removed and washed in a regular washing machine, and a lower noise level in the cabin. Renault is definitely the best choice for families. At the end of the test, Fiat still wins, albeit by a few points. However, one thing is certain - both models are sure to find many loyal fans among the inhabitants of the urban jungle.

CONCLUSION

1.Fiat

With state-of-the-art equipment, spacious interior and dynamic handling, the 500X justifies its higher price tag. However, the performance of the braking system definitely leaves much to be desired.

2 RenaultDynamics isn't its forte, but the Captur boasts great comfort, flexible interior space and ease of operation. This car offers a lot - at a good price.

Text: Michael Harnishfeger

Photo: Dino Eisele