Abarth 500 (09 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
The 500 has been a big success for Fiat, so a fiery version of the model from Abarth - a separate high-performance brand within Fiat - is no surprise. Wearing the distinctive scorpion badges, the Abarth 500 has been significantly re-engineered and is only available through the small network of Abarth dealerships. Thanks to a peppy turbocharged 1.4-litre engine, it performs as well as the striking looks suggest. Sharp steering and minimal roll in corners make it hugely fun to drive too. For those who want even more performance, there's an Esseesse version which increases engine power and adds stiffer suspension and better brakes.
4.5 out of 5

Other Abarth reviews

4.5 out of 5

Safety

The Fiat 500, on which the Abarth 500 is based, has scored very highly in official European crash tests for a small car. It scored five starts for adult occupant protection (the highest score available at the time) and the Abarth 500 comes with seven airbags (including a steering column-mounted one to help protect the driver's knees in a crash). Electronic stability control is also standard.

NCAP Test

Euro NCAP logo Euro NCAP

Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

Visit Euro NCAP for more info

4 out of 5

Reliability

Although some people have had problems with reliability on small Fiats in the recent past, reliability is generally good and Fiat (which owns the Abarth brand) has begun to take quality and customer service far more seriously. The specialist Abarth dealers should offer good service.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.