If the Fiat 500 could do this..

…this is what it would look like:

Say hello to the Fiat 500X. The X joins the somewhat quirky L, a compact MPV, as the 500 range continues to, literally, grow.

Just like the reinvented 500 was Fiat’s answer to BMW’s Mini, so the 500X is their answer to the SUV-like Countryman.

I’ve been looking forward to trying the 500X because, while I love the styling of the standard 500, I found it a little on the claustrophobic side. There’s more space, in the front at least, which is unsurprising considering this is a much bigger car but rear leg room, while better than in the standard car, remains limited. There’s certainly little incentive for taller passengers to volunteer to travel in the rear.

My test car, the Pop Star model from a range that also includes the Pop and Lounge, was fitted with a 1.6-litre MultiJet four-cylinder engine producing 120hp and peak torque of 236lbft from a respectable 1,750rpm.

It makes for a delightfully entertaining drive with a wide power band ensuring brisk in-gear performance. It’s enhanced by the slick gearbox which has a positive, assured action.

The engine isn’t the most refined diesel unit around at the moment. Rev it hard and it’s quick to remind you what’s under the bonnet. It’s not totally overbearing, and while it falls short of expectations raised by other manufacturers’ efforts, it just about falls in the range of what’s acceptable.

The ride is rather good. It deals competently with most of the imperfections our roads throw its way but high frequency undulations can unsettle the chassis.

All models are equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system that includes Bluetooth handsfree calling and audio streaming. My test car was also equipped with the Nav Pack – standard on top-spec Lounge and Cross Plus models – which proved to be an amiable companion. It was easy to use and accurate with a crisp, clear display, although the relatively small five-inch screen made onscreen controls a bit of a hit-and-miss affair.

The cabin is reminiscent of the smaller 500, just a touch more grown up. There are plenty of stylish flourishes, including a body-coloured dashboard fascia, the wonderfully retro door handles and the nicely integrated infotainment screen.

The majority of the cabin materials are high quality. There have been some cost savings but they’re subtle and hidden away in dark corners away from all but the most prying of eyes.

The dapper seats are comfortable and supportive while the switchgear is stylish and elegant. The instrument binnacle is a beautifully simple affair but the column stalks are one of the few examples in the cabin where Fiat could, and should, have splashed a bit more of the cash.

There’s more room in the rear than you’ll find in its smaller sibling, naturally, but not as much as I’d hoped. With two six-footers in tandem it remains a bit of a squeeze for the rear-seat passengers. At least there’s plenty of headroom.

I adore the original Fiat 500. I would never want to own one, it’s simply too small and, despite its increased dimensions, I can say the same about its descendent. The 500 X, however, feels like its been built just for people like me. People who want a 500 and the classic Italian style that goes with it but in a more practical package.

It’s fun to drive, comfortable and has a punchy, economical – if a little unrefined – engine. It’s also good value with a healthy list of standard equipment.

Stylish, practical and fun to drive, what more could you ask for?

Fiat 500X Pop Star

Price (as tested): £23,620

Engine: 1.6-litre 4-cylinder diesel

Transmission: 6-speed manual

Power: 120hp

Torque: 320Nm @1,750rpm

Maximum Speed: 115mph

Acceleration (0-62mph): 10.5sec

Urban: 60.1mpg

Extra urban: 74.3mpg

Combined: 68.9mpg

Emissions (CO2): 109g/km

For more information visit www.fiat.co.uk