For almost as long as Fiat has produced the 500, Abarth has been transforming them into racing cars. More recently Abarth has been recognized as a bespoke automaker rather than a customisation company and even though its product range is based on Fiat vehicles, they are sold under the Abarth banner.
Related: Top 10 obscure facts you need to know about the Abarth 500
As the vehicles are based on the Fiat 500 coupe and cabriolet models, the Abarth range does get the 500 designations, however, since the Abarth models are different in styling and performance, Abarth installs the 595 monikers to the model range. Currently in the range are the entry-level 595, 595 Turismo and the most powerful 595 Competizione, all offered with either a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission. Except for the Competizione variant, all models is also offered in coupe or cabriolet form.
1. Exterior Styling
While the Abarth unmistakenly retains its Fiat 500 looks, the Italian firm replaces the front and rear bumpers with more aggressive-looking versions. Furthermore, the front features a splitter while the rear sees the incorporation of dual exhaust pipes and a diffuser. Also setting each variant apart are 16- and 17-inch wheel options and a boot spoiler. Customers can also opt for the Abarth decals to be installed to the exterior for that race-car look.
2. Interior Styling
Following a similar methodology as on the exterior, Abarth takes what is the standard 500 interiors and upgrades it to retain a more performance-inspired feel. In addition to the sport seats, the 595 range incorporates a new flat-bottomed steering wheel with crosshairs insert which in the Competizione is clad with suede-like Alcantara material.
Furthermore, customers can expect the door insert trim to be updated to match the theme of the seats and the dashboard trim to be finished in a unique material with the Competizione seeing carbon fibre used. Atop the dashboard features turbocharger pressure gauge with white lighting for better display. The instrument panel also sees changes made to be more sporty while retaining excellent readability.
3. Infotainment
Fitted as standard equipment on all three derivatives is a 7.0-inch high definition touchscreen display installed with the latest Uconnect system. Incorporated into the Uconnect live services are navigation as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system is linked up to a 480 Watts BeatsAudio system which consists of two dome tweeters installed in the front pillars, two 165 mm mid-woofers in the front doors, two full-range 165 mm speakers in the rear side panels and one 200 mm subwoofer in the middle of the boot.
4. Performance
Abarth not only tweak the engine and transmission performance of its 500 models, but it also installs performance suspension and upgraded brakes. In the Competizione the braking system encapsulates a Brembo 4-piston aluminium monobloc fixed callipers paired with self-ventilating, perforated 305 mm discs.
Provided the entire Abarth range comes fitted with the 1.4-litre, 4-cylinder, turbocharged petrol motor, let's see what the difference is between the three models.
| Abarth 595 | Abarth 595 Turismo | Abarth 595 Competizione | |
| Power | 107 kW | 121 kW | 132 kW |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 206 Nm | 230 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.8s | 7.3s | 6.7s |
| Top speed | 210 km/h | 218 km/h | 225 km/h |
| Fuel consumption | 6.0 L / 100 km | 6.0 L / 100 km | 6.0 L / 100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 139 g/km | 139 g/km | 139 g/km |
Verdict
Although Fiat 500 has been around for quite some time, Abarth continuously attempts to make it all that much faster and fun. The latest offerings from Abarth does just that with its upgraded styling and performance. When test-driving one of these, try to separate the Fiat from the Abarth and you will quickly notice the added value it provides, be it in features or smiles.
If you are considering a new or used Abarth 595, always take note of the low profile wheels and stiffer suspension as while it looks good and performs well, the stiffness on rough roads can get a bit much when the vehicle is used regularly or over large distances.
Recommended next:
Abarth 500 vs Mini Cooper S vs Ford Fiesta: which one has the lowest running costs?
Find out what’s the correct tyre pressure for your Abarth 500.
