Reviewed by Susan Frissell

The media recently had the opportunity to drive the new, “small but wicked,” Fiat 500 Abarth edition. The Abarth, a moniker coined by Karl Abarth for the Fiat models he created in the 1960s, has been recreated by Fiat. A world-class performer, the new Abarth edition of the 500 has purposeful aggressive styling, a high power-to-weight ratio, precision and performance, among other amenities and is available in limited production volume only.

At an attainable price of $ 22,000 to start, the Fiat 500 Abarth is light-weight with Italian performance and a racing heritage. The Abarth is equipped with Fiat’s all-new 1.4-liter Multi-Air Turbo engine, Abarth tuned suspension, race-inspired design and technological features not usually see on small cars.

Drivers of the Abarth will receive immediate feedback as the engine speed approaches redline. The driver is able to monitor the turbo chargers pressure on the engine by keeping their eye upon the sporty turbo-boost gauge.

To improve driving dynamics and to create space in the engine compartment for the 1.4-liter engine, the Abarth’s front fascia is more pronounced; thrust forward 2.7 inches from the signature whiskers and logo face, going back to Fiat’s vintage 850 TC and 1000 TC models.

Serving as an extra air intake is the signature Abarth shield, floating on the hood. For a more aggressive look, Fiat has added a blacked-out fascia accent, integrating the projector-beam fog lamps and aiding in directing the air to cool the engine. The 500 Abarth edition is tuned with three-mode electronic stability control: ESC on, ESC partial and ESC full off. Electronic Brake Force Distribution is also standard, along with Traction Control and Anti-lock braking.

A new dual-valve Frequency Selective Daming (FSD), KONI two-in-one front shock absorber replaces the standard twin tube, providing road-holding and handling characteristics needed for maximum grip and performance. The FSD system also actively filters out any high-frequency suspension input from the inevitable uneven road surfaces, therefore, adjusting for improved comfort and smoothness. We drove the Abarth on a closed track, not on street routes, so getting a good sense of its performance was somewhat limited. However, one notices a difference between the sporty Abarth and the base Fiat 500.

A “sport” mode calibration is available via a powertrain control module (PCM) that lets go with full power from the 1.4-liter Multi Air Turbo. When not engaged, the 500 Abarth returns to normal mode, limiting torque in first and second gears which enhances fuel economy and reduces CO2 emissions. This is a fun little car to navigate and put through the paces.

BLUE+ME hands-free communication technology is standard on the Abarth, as is TomTom Navigation. Featured is a 4.4-inch TomTom portable navigation device that perches atop the IP. A Bose Premium audio system, complete with six speakers, SIRIUS Satellite radio.

Safety features include 35 features, and seven standard airbags, among other standard safety equipment.


SPECS
MSRP: $22,000
Engine: 1.4L, DOHC 16 valve Multiair, inline 4-cylinder, 160 hp., 170 lb.ft. torque Turbocharged
Transmission: /c514 Five-Speed Manual
EPA vehicle class: mini compact
Seating capacity: 2/2
Wheelbase: 90.6 in.
Length: 139.6 in.
Width: 64.1 in.
Height: 59.8 in.
Weight: 2,363 lbs.
EPA Fuel Economy: 30/38 mpg.
Fuel Tank Capacity: 10.5 gal.
Tires: 195/45R 16XL BSW all-season; optional: 205/40R17 BSW Pirelli
Wheels: 16×6.5 in. cast aluminum
Assembled: Toluca, Mexico