PERFORMANCE, technology and sharp Italian style are all key features of the fiery new Abarth 595 supermini.
And with a starting price of £15,090 for the 1.4 TJet 145bhp manual model, the newcomer also represents strong value for money.
The new Abarth 595 is the latest model to emerge from one of the iconic names of the Italian sports car scene – now owned by Fiat – and spiritual heir to the original model launched in 2008.
It is offered with three trim levels – 595, 595 Turismo and 595 Competizione – plus three power levels and many of the upgrades are the result of experience gained with the development of the 695 Biposto, dubbed the “smallest supercar”.
One of the biggest innovations is the increased power of the 1.4 T-jet engine installed on the 595 and 595 Turismo versions.
The first delivers 145bhp and 206Nm of pulling power, while the second reaches 165bhp and 230Nm of torque.
Topping the range is the 180bhp Competizione variant aimed at drivers who crave racing adrenaline – both in performance and technical features.
Accelerating from 0-62 mph in 6.7 seconds and featuring an oversize Brembo braking system this model also comes with a high-performance Record Monza exhaust.
As standard, all variants of the 1.4 T-jet engine are paired with a five-speed gearbox but they can be fitted with an Abarth sequential transmission with shift paddles.
Abarth says that the new 595 is also the only car in its area of the market to fit a truly exclusive mechanical limited-slip differential.
Available on demand, it is included on the 595 Competizione with manual transmission and improves traction in extreme conditions.
Styling wise, the 595 has new features to improve performance, including a redesigned front end and a more pronounced diffuser on the rear bumper.
Some 15 body colours – including pastel, metallic and tri-coat paints and five bi-colour liveries – are up for grabs.
And they include the exclusive Modena Yellow, until now only available on the 695 Biposto Record, the sporty new Abarth Red pastel and the new tri-coat Ghaccio White.
Three packs for customising the appearance of the car are available on demand with Abarth side sticker, mirror caps and front and rear bumper inserts in three colours: white, black or red.
