Fiat Abarth 595: A Review of the Pint-Sized Pocket Rocket
The Fiat Abarth 595 is not just a car; it's an experience. Taking the lovable, retro charm of the standard Fiat 500 and injecting it with a healthy dose of racing spirit, Abarth has created a pint-sized pocket rocket that is loud, unapologetic, and an absolute blast to drive. This article provides a comprehensive review of the Fiat Abarth 595, examining its design, exhilarating performance, unique interior, and its position as a modern-day hot hatch icon.
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| Fiat Abarth 595: A Review of the Pint-Sized Pocket Rocket |
Design: Aggressive Style with a Touch of Heritage
On the outside, the Abarth 595 maintains the iconic silhouette of the Fiat 500, but with a series of aggressive and performance-oriented modifications. The car features a more aggressive front bumper with larger air intakes for improved cooling. The wheel arches are flared to accommodate wider tires, and the car's lowered stance gives it a much more menacing and planted look. At the rear, the large spoiler and a dual or quad exhaust system (depending on the trim) hint at the power that lies within.
What truly sets the Abarth 595 apart is its attention to detail. The scorpion badges—the symbol of Abarth—are proudly displayed on the hood, fenders, and steering wheel, a constant reminder of its racing heritage. The available bold paint colors, racing stripes, and custom alloy wheels allow owners to further personalize their car and make a bold statement. The Abarth 595's design is a perfect blend of modern aggression and classic Italian flair.
Performance: A Symphony of Power and Noise
This is where the Abarth 595 truly shines. Under the hood lies a turbocharged 1.4-liter T-Jet engine, but it's the various stages of tune that make all the difference. In its base form, the 595 produces a healthy amount of power, but the higher-performance Competizione and Trofeo models push the output to an impressive level. The acceleration is thrilling and immediate, with the small car feeling incredibly fast and agile.
The Abarth 595’s performance is defined not just by its speed but by the visceral driving experience it offers. The engine note, in particular, is an aural symphony. The car's exhaust system, especially the "Record Monza" exhaust on higher trims, emits a loud, crackling sound that pops and burbles on the overrun. It's an intoxicating sound that makes every drive feel like a race. The car's stiffened suspension and responsive steering give it a go-kart-like feel, allowing the driver to confidently attack corners with precision. The braking system, with its larger brake calipers and vented discs, provides strong and consistent stopping power.
Interior and Technology: A Driver-Focused Cockpit
The interior of the Abarth 595 is a direct reflection of its performance-oriented nature. While it shares the basic layout of the Fiat 500, it features a number of key upgrades that make it a true driver's cockpit. The sports seats, often from Sabelt, are heavily bolstered to provide support during spirited driving. The chunky, flat-bottomed steering wheel feels great in the hands, and the instrument cluster features a large, central display that shows key performance information, including turbo boost pressure and a G-meter.
Technology is present but not overwhelming. The infotainment system is user-friendly and supports modern connectivity like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the true focus of the interior is on the driving experience. Every detail, from the metal pedals to the gear shifter, is designed to make the driver feel connected to the car.
A Car with a Unique Identity
The Fiat Abarth 595 is a niche vehicle, but that is precisely its strength. It's not a car for everyone. It's loud, it's firm, and it's unapologetic. But for those who appreciate its unique character, it offers an incredibly rewarding and fun driving experience that is hard to find elsewhere. It’s a modern hot hatch with a soul and a rich racing heritage that is felt in every pop of the exhaust and every turn of the steering wheel.
The Abarth 595 is a celebration of the joy of driving. It proves that you don't need a huge, powerful, or expensive car to have a lot of fun. It is a true modern-day icon that will undoubtedly be remembered for its spirited personality and its ability to make every journey an adventure.
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