2018 Fiat 500X drops all-wheel-drive variants

Fiat has dropped the all-wheel-drive variants from its 2018 500X range, along with their more powerful 125kW version of its 1.4-litre turbo engine.

The 500X lineup has been halved at the expense of the Lounge and range-topping Cross Plus variants; the 103kW Pop and Pop Star variants remain, and are temporarily joined by special Launch Edition.

Fiat Australia hasn’t officially revealed why the all-paw versions were dropped, though WhichCar believes it was to simplify the range and contain it within an affordable price point.

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As before, the entry-level Pop comes with a choice of either a six-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with the dual-clutch auto standard in the other two variants.

The 2018 500X gains a new 7.0-inch Uconnect touchscreen infotainment system that is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with satellite navigation included in the Pop Star and Launch Edition.

There’s also an optional BeatsAudio sound system upgrade, developed in collaboration with Beats by Dr Dre, which includes a 560W, eight-channel digital amplifier.

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The Pop Star and Launch Edition benefit from more driver assistance gear, including Forward Collision Warning Plus, which will warn of a pending collision and prime the brakes to help you come to a stop faster, and will automatically apply the brakes if needed.

Other new kit includes cornering fog lamps, blind spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control.

Limited to 100 units, the Launch Edition costs $3000 more than the Pop Star, with the extra coin buying you 17-inch special edition alloy wheels, black partial leather seats, electric-adjust front seats, folding door mirrors and the BeatsAudio sound system.

It will be available in six colours (three solid and three metallic): Gelato White, Argento Grey, Cinema Black, Fashion Grey, Venezia Blue and Passione Red.

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2018 Fiat 500X manufacturer’s list pricing

• 500X Pop manual - $24,990
• 500X Pop auto - $26,990
• 500X Pop Star - $29,990
• 500X Launch Edition - $32,990