Introduced in 2013, the Fiat 500L Trekking transformed the practical 500L into a versatile lifestyle crossover with rugged body cladding, off-road style bumpers, raised ground clearance and an intelligent Traction+ electronic front differential system. Offering far more passenger and luggage volume than a Renault Captur or Nissan Juke, it requires diligent Fiat 500L maintenance focused on its raised suspension, driveshafts and engine options.
The Trekking was powered by the 1.4 16v FIRE (95 hp), the 0.9 TwinAir (105 hp), the 1.4 T-Jet (120 hp), and the popular 1.3 MultiJet II (85/95 hp) and 1.6 MultiJet II (105/120 hp) diesels. The electronic Traction+ electronic front differential uses ABS and ESP sensors to brake a slipping front wheel and redirect torque to the wheel with grip on mud or snow. However, the raised ride height places higher angular strain on the front lower wishbones and constant velocity (CV) driveshaft boots.