Fiat 500L Trekking targets family buyers with SUV styling and added traction
Fiat’s 500L Trekking adds raised suspension, SUV-inspired looks and the Traction+ system to the 500L range, aiming to deliver more versatility for families and those after light off-road ability.
Fiat expanded its 500L range with the Trekking, a five-door mini-MPV aimed at families wanting more space and a touch of crossover style. The Trekking stands out with its raised ride height, SUV-inspired bodywork and the addition of Fiat’s Traction+ system, designed to improve grip on loose or slippery surfaces. The model arrived as part of Fiat’s push to broaden the 500 badge beyond its city-car roots and appeal to buyers after something more versatile than the standard 500L.
SUV-inspired looks and practicality
The Trekking’s main visual changes over the standard 500L include black bumpers with silver skid plates, plastic cladding around the wheel arches, and larger 17-inch alloy wheels. Ground clearance is up by 13mm, giving the car a more purposeful stance and helping with kerbs or rougher tracks. At 4,252mm long, the Trekking is slightly longer than the regular 500L, and its height puts it closer to some compact SUVs. These tweaks are mainly cosmetic, but they do make the car feel more substantial in traffic and car parks.
Inside, the 500L Trekking keeps the same flexible five-seat layout as the regular model. The rear bench slides to prioritise legroom or boot space, and there’s a flat floor for easier access. The driving position is upright and visibility is good, helped by the car’s tall glasshouse. Cabin materials are functional, with some colourful trim options to brighten up the interior. The boot offers enough space for family use, although the seven-seat 500L Living remains the choice for those needing more capacity.
Engine range and driving experience
Fiat offered the Trekking with a range of engines, including the 1.6 MultiJet II turbodiesel (105hp), 1.3 MultiJet II diesel, 1.4 petrol, and the 0.9 TwinAir turbocharged petrol. The 1.6 diesel stands out for its 320Nm of torque at 1,750rpm, making it well suited to carrying passengers and luggage. Paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, it delivers reasonable performance and is claimed to achieve 4.7 litres/100km combined, though real-world figures tend to be higher. The engine is responsive at low revs, but refinement trails some rivals, with more noise under hard acceleration or when cold.
The Trekking uses front-wheel drive, but its Traction+ system uses the brakes and electronics to simulate a limited-slip differential, helping the car find grip on snow, mud or gravel at speeds up to 30km/h. All-season M+S tyres are fitted as standard. While it’s no substitute for a full all-wheel-drive system, the setup can help in poor conditions and gives the Trekking a slight edge over most small MPVs in light off-road situations. Suspension changes keep body roll in check, despite the raised ride height, and the steering is light but lacks feel at higher speeds.
Where the Fiat 500L Trekking fits
With its blend of family practicality, SUV-inspired looks and modest off-road ability, the 500L Trekking targets buyers who want more than a standard MPV but do not need a full SUV. It competes with models like the MINI Countryman and some crossover versions of mainstream hatchbacks. For those wanting a more distinct style or occasional light off-road use, the Trekking offers an alternative to the usual family fare. Fiat later updated the 500L range, with the 2018 facelift claiming 40 percent new components (see /2018-fiat-500l-is-now-40-percent-new), but the Trekking’s formula of versatility and style remained central to its appeal.
