Abarth: Three performance levels for the 595
The smallest Abarth is already eight years old. Nevertheless, the people at FCA have regularly maintained the Fiat 500 (as well as its brother Abarth), so that now there is also a 7-inch screen for the Uconnect multimedia system. But even more has changed. The Abarth 595 is available with three power levels: 145, 165 or 180 hp. [...]
During our test drive, we focused on the sharper version: the 595 Competizione, which can be recognized by its 17-inch wheels from OZ with Michelin tires. On the outside, the designers have only made minimal changes to the 595's rear diffuser and front bumper. Clearly, the 595 Competizione is no 695 Biposto, but there are plenty of motorsport genes in the interior: Bucket seats, carbon elements and Alcantara for the steering wheel.
Perfect matching of power and transmission
The little one on the move: Start the engine, select the sport button and off you go. The power of the 1.4 liter can be used optimally thanks to the perfect tuning of the transmission. If the turbo lag bothers you, you simply have to step on the gas pedal earlier and let the mechanical differential lock pull you out - quite efficiently and gently, without electronic driving aids having to intervene. Sure, you can feel that the 595 has a short wheelbase and a high center of gravity, but the tuning of the Koni dampers has made it possible to put a stable and safe vehicle on the road.
Conclusion: Even the smallest Abarth was improved year after year - for this year of manufacture even a bit more. It's just a pity that the high seating position is still unsporty, but the roots of the 500 must not be forgotten. So it's surprising what such a city runabout can afford.
www.abarth.ch
Photo: Factory
