Are Fiat Cars Popular In Canada?
The Fiat cars did at one time enjoy a great deal of popularity. This was going back a few years, but in the last couple of years, this is not the case. The sales statistics have shown this. Some of the reasons for this is updates are not done. Many Canadians seem to have shifted over to vehicles not as prone to fuel savings. There have also been concerns about the unavailability of the all-wheel drive in the 500 Fiat. Then added to all this is the issues about reliability.
What is the Price Range Like for Fiats?
One thing that is favourable about the Fiat is the reasonable price range. These can range from around $19,500 up to $28,000. These are figures that help to put this vehicle into an affordable category. But, it did not make the top 10 cheapest list in 2017 or 2018. But for those that are going to lease a vehicle, the 500 Pop is one that is attractive. In many cases, leasing is available for under $200 a month. Also, there are many great incentives included with this.
How Safe Are Fiat Cars?
Each year the Institute for Highway Safety and the Highway Loss Data Institute implement top safety picks of the year list. It pertains to vehicles that they feel are the safest among all the rest. The Fiat cars did not make it this list. The 2017 Fiat 500 3 HB FWD is rated by the NHTSA. It gave an overall rating of four stars. Also, a four-star rating for frontal crash. But, a five-star rating for a side crash. For rollovers, it received a four-star rating. The IIHS gave the 3027 FIAT 500 2 door hatchback for 2017 a poor rating on its crashworthiness.
Vehicles change each year. That is why they are safety rated on a yearly basis. For those thinking of buying a used model, they can check the safety ratings for that particular year.
The FIAT models for 2018 are;
The FIAT 500 – 2017
FIAT has focused on some specific safety features. Although perhaps not as many as some other brands. They are showcasing those that they feel of the most importance.
- 4 Wheel anti-locking brakes
- Rear Park Assist
- Structural safety
- 360 Degree protection
The FIAT 500X
This is a crossover that has the following safety features
- Traction control
- Four-wheel ABS
- Four-wheel disc brakes
- Electronic stability control
- Integrated turn signal mirrors
- Daytime running lights
- A variety of airbags comprised of five of them
- Brake assist
FIAT 500L
This particular model has a few more safety features that are available. These consist of;
Standard Safety Technology/ It’s comprised of the rear back up camera, and seven airbags. Also, electronic stability control, all-speed traction control, and active front head restraints.
- Four wheels anti-lock braking system
- Standard Brake Assist
- A tire pressure monitoring system
Fiat 124 Spider
FIAT is claiming that with the FIAT 124 Spider there are 40 standard and optional safety and security features. Focus again is on structural safety.
- Blind spot and rear safety
- Parking Assistance
List of All Fiat Models in Canada
| 124 Spider |
| 500 |
| 500 Abarth |
| 500E |
| 500L |
| 500X |
| Albea |
| Dino |
| Pininfarina |
| Spider |
| X1-9 |
Does The Fiat Car Have Any Impact on Insurance Costs?
The actual brand of the vehicle is not going to have an impact on the insurance costs. Some of the components that apply to it will. The insurance company will look at what it is going to cost to replace the vehicle. Lower priced cars cost them less to replace. Some of the Fiat models may fit into this range.
Then they look at the power of the vehicle. Specifically the horsepower. The Fiats can perform, but they are not considered to be of high horsepower. It is a consideration for the Insurance companies.
In general with the Fiat being a popular vehicle in the past many repair shops can repair them. Insurance companies will take into account how expensive cars are to fix. It is because they have to deal with this cost for claims.
Insurance Companies do care about safety features. But, only those where there is some data supporting them. The newer cars are coming out with a lot of extra safety features. Many of which are impressive. But, the insurance companies are not focusing on many of these yet. It is because they have not proven themselves. Plus they have no statistical data to rely on yet.
If they do have statistical data, they may use this as a resource. Good or bad. It can help to determine what the premiums will be.
Are Fiat Cars at High Risk for Theft In Canada?
The Fiats don’t appear to be making the majority of the lists of high risk for theft in Canada. But, stats are showing that thieves are now targeting older vehicles. So that doesn’t mean that a Fiat would not be appealing to a thief.
Another factor is the neighbourhood where the car is parked. If the stats show the insurance company that the risks are high these are taken into account. The Insurance Company won’t care whether it is a Fiat or not.
Will the Insurance Companies Give any Discounts for Fiat Drivers?
Fiat drivers can get discounts. Not because they are specifically a Fiat driver. But based on other metrics and information. The fact that a Fiat is not a high-end sports model is one positive factor. It is a small economy vehicle may be another. Then just by using snow tires on the Fiat may afford a discount.
Added to all this are other factors like the age, gender and driving record of the driver. Their driving history is going to be a big factor.
Looking for discounts means looking at all the potential ones offered. Not just for those that are vehicle specific. When getting insurance quotes, it provides an insurance shopper with some great choices. These can further be narrowed down by what extras they have to offer. By shopping for insurance in this manner, it works well for Fiat owners. As well as owners of any other type of vehicle. Ranging from small compact vehicles to full high-end luxury vehicles.
About the Author: Ashley Miller
