Fiat 500
28.5 MPG The 2019 Fiat 500 is EPA-rated at 28.5 MPG combined (26 city / 32.5 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 526 gallons, $1684 a year in fuel, or $0.112 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2012–2019 run it averages 29.9 MPG, falling by 2 MPG over 8 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.088 | $877 | $1316 | $1754 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.105 | $1053 | $1579 | $2105 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.112 | $1123 | $1684 | $2246 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.123 | $1228 | $1842 | $2456 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.140 | $1404 | $2105 | $2807 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.158 | $1579 | $2368 | $3158 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.175 | $1754 | $2632 | $3509 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 28.5 MPG | 26 | 32.5 | $2700 | 313 | 2 |
| 2018 | 28.5 MPG | 26 | 32.5 | $2700 | 309 | 2 |
| 2017 | 30 MPG | 27.5 | 34 | $2575 | 297 | 4 |
| 2016 | 30 MPG | 27.5 | 34 | $2575 | 297 | 4 |
| 2015 | 30 MPG | 27.3 | 34 | $2575 | 298 | 4 |
| 2014 | 30.7 MPG | 28.3 | 34.7 | $2517 | 288 | 3 |
| 2013 | 31 MPG | 28.3 | 34.7 | $2483 | 286 | 3 |
| 2012 | 30.5 MPG | 28.5 | 35 | $2525 | 292 | 2 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 68 minicompact cars models tracked here, the Fiat 500 ranks 8 on current figures, against a class average of 22.4 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: MINI Cooper S (29), MINI John Cooper Works (29), MINI Cooper Convertible (30), MINI Cooper S Convertible (30), MINI Cooper (31).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 313 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 4.7 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Fiat 500 get?
The 2019 Fiat 500 is rated at 28.5 MPG combined by the EPA — 26 city and 32.5 highway. Across all 8 model years in the database it averages 29.9 MPG, ranging from 27 to 34 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Fiat 500 cost in fuel per year?
At 28.5 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 526 gallons — roughly $1684 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.112 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2019 model is $2700.
Has the Fiat 500 become more efficient over time?
No — it has actually gone backwards, from 30.5 MPG in 2012 to 28.5 in 2019. That usually reflects the model growing heavier, more powerful, or moving upmarket rather than the engineering getting worse.
Is the Fiat 500 efficient for its class?
It ranks 8 of 68 in the Minicompact Cars class on current figures, against a class average of 22.4 MPG. That is 6.1 better than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.