Overview

It’s a long time since Fiat has been in a position to claim class honours in the hot hatch sector. The 130bhp Punto HGT, discontinued in 2006, struggled both on paper and on the road at a time when the class leaders were offering up to 180bhp. All this has changed, and Fiat has dusted off a famous and illustrious brand to lead its charge into enemy territory.

Abarth was last seen as a badge-engineered ‘warm’ version of the unpopular Stilo, and fans of the iconic marque with decades of racing and tuning heritage would be justified in feeling nervous. But Fiat has bestowed Abarth status as a brand in its own right, alongside Alfa Romeo, Lancia and Maserati in its automotive stable. The 155bhp hatchback (180bhp with factory-approved dealer modifications) is impressive on the road and is good value, plus it should remain exclusive as a result of the small network of specialist dealers.