GWM Cannon Alpha vs Fiat 500e
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The GWM Cannon Alpha starts from $52,990 before on-road costs, while the Fiat 500e opens at $52,500. That makes the Fiat 500e the more affordable entry point by $490.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $58,289 and $57,750 respectively.
The Fiat 500e qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The GWM Cannon Alpha, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
The GWM Cannon Alpha holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 4 stars for the Fiat 500e. Adult occupant protection scored 84% for the GWM Cannon Alpha and 78% for the Fiat 500e.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 6 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the GWM Cannon Alpha and 6 in the Fiat 500e.
Feature Showdown
The GWM Cannon Alpha features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the Fiat 500e gets a 10.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GWM Cannon Alpha stands out with power tailgate that you will not find on the Fiat 500e. The Fiat 500e counters with BeatsAudio audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GWM Cannon Alpha uses a 2.4L 4-cylinder Turbo Diesel producing 135kW and 480Nm of torque, sent through a 9-speed automatic to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds.
The Fiat 500e responds with a Electric making 87kW and 220Nm, paired to a single-speed automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9 seconds.
The GWM Cannon Alpha has the clear power advantage at 135kW vs 87kW. In the real-world sprint, the Fiat 500e is 1.5s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GWM Cannon Alpha measures 5,445mm long on a 3,350mm wheelbase, 1814mm longer than the Fiat 500e at 3,631mm (2,322mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Cannon Alpha generally means more rear legroom.
00Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
9.3m to 13.0m
Based on 13.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 9.3m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Cannon Alpha) vs 3 years / 150,000km (Fiat 500e). The GWM Cannon Alpha has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM Cannon Alpha if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Fiat 500e if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Fiat's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Cannon Alpha takes 4 of 7 key spec categories. The GWM Cannon Alpha adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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