Fiat 500L with Built-In Espresso Machine

Need a jolt behind the wheel? Coffee boosts alertness and sharpens focus—making it the ideal drink for drivers. But sipping from a thermos while navigating traffic isn’t exactly convenient. What if your car could make fresh espresso on demand?

The 2013 Fiat 500L gave you exactly that: an optional, factory-installed espresso machine powered by Lavazza capsules. Just push a button, and you’ve got a shot before your next turn.

Why Put an Espresso Machine in a Car?

Swedish automaker Volvo once experimented with driver safety by using a system that detected fatigue and urged drivers to take a coffee break—with a coffee cup icon flashing on the dash. Italy’s Fiat took it further. For their 2013 Fiat 500L, they offered a built-in espresso machine as part of an optional “coffee experience” package. Because nothing says Italian engineering like combining a compact hatchback with freshly brewed espresso.

How the In-Car Espresso System Worked

The espresso machine was developed in partnership with Italian coffee giant Lavazza. It used standard Lavazza capsules for ease and consistency. The machine featured a temperature gauge styled like a speedometer—not just functional, but a stylish nod to driving. The entire setup included a spoon holder, capsule tray, and sugar container, all integrated cleanly into the dashboard with no visible wires. The coffee maker snapped into a dedicated slot, making it a seamless part of the car’s interior. No clunky installations, no loose parts. Just pure, in-car caffeine.

More Than Just Coffee: The 2013 Fiat 500L’s Tech Features

Beyond the espresso machine, the 2013 Fiat 500L came with the latest UConnect infotainment system. It featured a 5-inch color touchscreen controlling DAB radio and iPod connectivity. The audio system packed serious punch: two 165mm woofers, two 38mm tweeters, two 165mm full-range speakers, a 165mm reflex subwoofer, and an 8-channel amplifier. Whether you were brewing espresso or blasting tunes, the Fiat 500L delivered a full sensory experience.

How Much Did This Coffee-Ready Car Cost?

All these features didn’t come cheap. The espresso machine was part of an optional package on the Fiat 500L, and the car itself had a starting price around £32,000 GBP (roughly $50,000 USD at the time). That put it out of reach for many, but for coffee-loving drivers who wanted a shot on the go, it was a tempting proposition. Imagine pulling up to a meeting, having just brewed your own espresso in the car. Who wouldn’t remember that?

Frequently Asked Questions

Did the 2013 Fiat 500L really come with a built-in espresso machine?

Yes, the 2013 Fiat 500L offered an optional built-in espresso machine as part of a “coffee experience” package developed with Lavazza. It used standard Lavazza capsules and included a temperature gauge and storage for spoons, capsules, and sugar.

How did the espresso machine work in the Fiat 500L?

The machine used Lavazza coffee capsules and featured a built-in temperature display styled like a speedometer. It snapped into a dedicated compartment in the dashboard with no external wires, offering a clean, integrated look.

What other features did the 2013 Fiat 500L include?

In addition to the espresso option, the 2013 Fiat 500L had a 5-inch UConnect touchscreen, DAB radio, iPod connectivity, and an 8-channel speaker system with dual woofers, tweeters, full-range speakers, and a subwoofer for high-quality audio.

Was the espresso machine standard on all Fiat 500L models?

No, the espresso machine was part of an optional package and not included on all trims. Buyers had to select the special “coffee experience” upgrade to get the machine installed in their vehicle.

How much did the Fiat 500L with the espresso machine cost?

The Fiat 500L started around £32,000 GBP, and the espresso machine was part of an additional cost option. The total price would have been higher depending on the selected packages and trim level.

Was the in-car espresso machine practical for everyday use?

While innovative, the machine was more of a novelty for enthusiasts. Its practicality was limited by the need for capsules, space, and the premium price—but it certainly made a statement.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for In-Car Espresso

For drivers inspired by Fiat’s espresso car, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Commercial Blend for a balanced shot with medium crema, or the Specialty Blend for brighter tones and a silky texture—both roast to highlight crema stability during short extractions. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.