New Fiat 500X Dolcevita offers open-top SUV thrills

• Electrically operated roof can open and close in 15 seconds
• Three trim levels available 
• On sale now starting from £23,975

This is the Fiat 500X Dolcevita, a new open-top version of the brand’s compact SUV. While not a conventional convertible, the Dolcevita features a full-length electrically operated canvas roof for summer thrills. It’s similar to the one seen on the 500C convertible.  

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The 500X Dolcevita is the latest addition to the expanded 500 lineup, which includes conventional and electric versions of the 500 city car, the standard 500X and the 500L MPV. Fiat will be hoping the unique feature of the open roof gives the 500X added appeal against rivals such as Nissan Juke, SEAT Arona and MINI Countryman, which can only be had with regular glass sunroofs. 

2021 Fiat 500X Dolcevita: design, trim levels and prices

While the 500X Dolcevita gets the same styling as the regular models, the canvas roof can be chosen in black, grey or red along with a choice of 10 paint colours. Fiat says it can be fully opened or closed in 15 seconds at speeds of up to 62mph. 

The Connect trim kicks off the range starting from £23,975, and gets black fabric-trimmed seats, a synthetic leather-trimmed steering wheel and the brands U-Connect infotainment system with a seven-inch screen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

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Next up, the Cross model starts from £25,775, adding black plastic bodywork cladding and contrasting coloured bumper inserts. It also gets 19-inch alloy wheels and automatic air conditioning. 

The flagship Sport trim costs from £27,275 and gets a sporty exterior and a new 19-inch alloy wheel design. Inside, black sports seats are standard, along with red contrast detailing, aluminium interior trim pieces and a 3.5-inch driver information display. 

Engines and performance

There are two petrol engines to choose from. A turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit acts as the entry-point to the range in the Connect trim. It produces 118bhp, and sends power to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. 

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A more powerful 1.3-litre four-cylinder becomes available in the Cross and Sport models. It produces 148bhp and is fitted with a DCT automatic gearbox as standard. 

Want to know more about the 500 lineup? Read our reviews of the 500X, 500L and the new electric 500.