The Fiat 500 is about to celebrate its 68th birthday, and it’s got a mild refresh. It has just been announced that the 2026 Fiat 500 hybrid has entered pre-production with units assembled at the brand’s historic Mirafiori plant in Turin. Production is scheduled to officially commence in November 2025, with annual output expected to exceed 100,000 units.
Here are 5 things you should know about the 500 Hybrid:
Strategic shift from EV to Hybrid
Fiat’s decision to retrofit the 500e electric platform with a combustion-based hybrid engine comes in response to evolving market demands. The move provides a successor to the 17-year-old petrol Fiat 500, which was recently discontinued due to European cybersecurity regulations.
New 500 Hybrid powertrain
The new model is expected to feature the familiar 1.0-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid Firefly engine used in the Fiat Panda and international versions of the Fiat 500 since 2020. While details of the full powertrain specification remain unconfirmed, the inclusion of a mild-hybrid setup offers a balance of efficiency and affordability for urban drivers.
Symbol of Italian identity
The 500 Hybrid micro-hatch continues Fiat’s long-standing tradition of designing and producing its most iconic models in Italy. More than 70 per cent of 500 models built at Mirafiori are exported, underlining the car’s global appeal and Italian roots. Fiat CEO and Stellantis Global CMO Olivier Francois stated, “500 Hybrid offers affordable electrification and iconic style, proof that social relevance is at the core of the brand mission.” He also emphasised the importance of the Mirafiori and Pomigliano plants in the production of the brand’s two most recognisable models — the 500 and Panda.
Expected pricing
While official pricing has not been confirmed, the Fiat 500 Hybrid will likely launch with a starting price below €20,000. This pricing strategy positions the car competitively within the hybrid and electric vehicle market, providing buyers with an affordable yet stylish alternative in the city car segment. That would be a fair bit more affordable than the all-electric Fiat 500e priced from $52,500 before on-road costs.
Fiat Australia’s current offerings
The availability of the 2026 Fiat 500 Hybrid in Australia is yet to be confirmed. The previous-generation petrol-powered Fiat 500 was discontinued in Australia in December 2023 due to declining sales. Given this context, the introduction of the new hybrid model in Australia remains uncertain.
In Australia, Fiat’s range currently includes the Ducato van, the Fiat 500e, and the Abarth 500e.
Conclusion
The 2026 Fiat 500 Hybrid marks an important chapter in the brand’s electrification journey, offering a blend of iconic Italian design and accessible hybrid technology. It also represents the shift from aggressive and overpriced EVs back to electrified combustion powertrains that are still more practical and accessible for many buyers.
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