The architecture of the Fiat 500X ensures exceptional torsion resistance, for optimum control of the body geometry. What's more, thanks to the MacPherson independent wheel suspension, the 500X sets out new standards in its segment for safe, dynamic driving. The Fiat 500X also offers increased precision and driving pleasure thanks to the electric power steering and the DST (Dynamic Steering Torque) system which improve handling.
Rigid body shell structure
The new Fiat 500X boasts segment-topping performance in terms of comfort and NHV (noise, vibration and harshness), thanks to the high natural frequency of the body and the extensive use of soundproof materials.
The structural rigidity of the Fiat 500X is achieved thanks to the extensive use of high-strength steel (around 70% of the total) and structural adhesives which serve to reduce the overall vehicle weight, to improve longevity and to maximise resistance in the case of collision. With the same objectives in mind, the 500X is fitted with a front crossmember and hybrid rear crash-box (plastic/steel).
The body's interfaces with the mechanics and power units are designed to ensure increased rigidity in order to reduce noise inside the passenger compartment.
MacPherson independent wheel suspension
The new 500X is a car for experiencing relaxing moments and comfortable travel, thanks in part to the layout of its MacPherson independent wheel suspension - both to the front and to the rear.
On the front axle, the Fiat 500X features a special dual-function crossmember: it offers the high rigidity required to achieve greater acoustic comfort and also to integrate a third load line to improve energy absorption capacity in the case of collision. The new vehicle also features a "split" type of shock absorber mounting that transmits vibrations from the road to the body structure through two different pathways, improving acoustics and shock absorption efficiency.
Advanced electric power steering
The Fiat 500X offers increased steering precision thanks to the electric power steering and the DST (Dynamic Steering Torque) system, which improve handling and dynamicity, as well as reducing fuel consumption by up to 3% compared to a conventional hydraulic system.
The 500X's DST system improves both driving safety and handling performance by actively correcting over and understeer. The DST system is completely integrated into the vehicle's electronic stability control (ESC) system and intervenes to correct potentially dangerous situations such as in the case of excessive deflection angles or instability caused, for example, by poor wheel grip.