For 2015, the FIAT 500 Abarth still rocks the same undeniable style, but gets a newly available six-speed automatic transmission and upgraded instrument cluster and center console with an additional USB port.
Italians tend to have a thing for enthusiastic flair, and if nowhere else, it shows in the automobiles they produce. Take one look at the 2015 FIAT 500 Abarth, and that desire to be different becomes readily, and happily, apparent.
No matter which angle you view the 500 Abarth from, you know this tiny car is different from anything else. Forget MINI, the FIAT 500 is easily one of the most distinctive designs in recent history, and the Abarth version is only more eye-catching. Featuring unique body panels nearly everywhere you look, the Abarth is simply more aggressive no matter how you cut it. From the front, a unique bumper directs airflow to the intercoolers that route air from the turbocharger. The design is mimicked on the rear bumper, with dual exhaust tips peeking out underneath an aerodynamic diffuser.
Other details to differentiate the Abarth from its ‘cute’ cousin are the choice unique and sporty 16-inch aluminum wheels or 17’s, available in a variety of hues to match or contrast your Abarth’s color scheme. There’s also a special liftgate spoiler to improve downforce and handling, and did we mention the signature Abarth scorpion logos everywhere?
Color is something Italians are also keen on, with the bolder being better. Looking at the schemes available for the 500 Abarth, you might think something’s gone amiss, but add contrasting red or black mirror caps and side stripes, and you’ve got an eye-catching design that still manages to be sophisticated.
Inside, that same personality reminds driver and passengers this is no normal FIAT. The seating position provided by the unique high-performance bucket seats provide a commanding view, while the design itself lends well to keeping drivers supported during spirited maneuvers. A dash-mounted boost gauge is a fun way to keep track of what your Abarth’s turbo is doing, and once again serves to remind you of the pocket supercar you’re in command of.
The heart of this little morsel of fun is the 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo engine, mated to a heavy-duty five-speed manual transmission. Pumping out 160 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque in this small of a package makes for one exciting driving experience, and the exhaust note is nothing short of simply amazing. If you were to somehow to ever tire of this demonic symphony, there’s an available BeatsAudio™ sound system with six premium speakers, an 8-inch subwoofer, and 368-watt amplifier.
Handling can be described as nothing short of breathtaking. With KONI shock absorbers, high-performance suspension, Torque Transfer Control (TTC), and three-mode Electronic Stability Control with coveted ‘Full Off’ capability, the 2015 FIAT 500 Abarth is a motoring experience like no other.
With so much content packed into this little Italian rocket on wheels, you might think the FIAT 500 Abarth is expensive and fuel thirsty. Think again. Expect highway fuel economy in the mid 30 mpg range, and the base price standing at a low $22,495.*
Small package. Small price. Big fun. The 2015 FIAT 500 Abarth is begging to be driven.
*MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title and registration fees. Starting at price refers to the base model, optional equipment not included. A more expensive model may be shown. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification. To get full pricing details, see your dealer.
Image: FIAT
