Abarth, the Italian automotive company known for its racing pedigree, is introducing its new 595 range.
Abarth claims that the new range ‘embodies the evolution’ of their most iconic model, the modified Fiat 500, and will be available in both hatchback and convertible configurations.
The new 595 range will consist of four different specs increasing in engine power, features, and price. The entry level option is the 595, followed by the 595 Trofeo, 595 Turismo, and 595 Competzione. All of which will be powered by a 1.4litre T-Jet engine ranging from 145-180hp depending on the model.
In line with Abarth’s racing history, all cars will come with the signature flat bottomed steering wheel, drilled disk brakes (284mm front and 240mm rear), and a sport button; which adjusts the exhaust valve, torque output, power steering and throttle sensitivity.
All feature daytime running lights, almost the norm with luxury brands pushing the envelope as of late, and xenon lights are an optional extra.
New Additions to the Options List
The 2018 595 is pioneering two new colour options; ‘Adrenaline Green’ for the Competzione & Trofeo models, and ‘Asphalt Grey’ for the Turismo.
Another new feature is the ‘Active Record Monza Exhaust’ system which with the push of a button will toggle the valve to produce a muted note for city driving, or a loud raspy note to accompany more spirited driving.
Options include an ‘Urban Pack’ with the goal of making dense city driving easier – this includes a dusk sensor, rain sensor, and parking sensors.
With each model subtle trim changes are made for example; the bumper inserts and intakes are coloured matt black on the standard 595, body coloured on the Turismo, and metallic Anthracite Grey on the Competzione.
Furthermore, the dashboard trim of the base spec 595 matches the body colour, the Turismo is satin grey, and the Competzione is once again finished in Anthracite Grey.
The Models on Offer
The entry-level 565 still boasts 145hp, 16 inch alloy wheels, and a five-speed gearbox – Abarth’s sequential paddle shifters are optional. Abarth have said that with every model across the range they aim to embody their ‘small car, big performance driving’ philosophy.
One up from the standard 595 is the 595 Trofeo with 160hp, 17 inch Gran Turismo alloy wheels and the first model to feature the Active Record Monza exhaust system as standard.
The second most expensive spec is the 595 Turismo, this comes with all the features of the Trofeo plus an extra 5hp from the engine, the Urban Pack previously mentioned, Koni rear shock absorbers (with frequency selective dampening tech) and optional carbon fibre trim on the front splitter, and wing mirrors.
Top of the range is the 595 Competzione, which comes with all of the features of the previous combined, plus an optional mechanical self-locking differential, which ensures optimal torque transfer between the front two wheels and shell-shaped ‘Abarth Corsa by Sabelt’ leather bucket seats. Punters also get the choice of more specific options to further personalize their Competzione such as repainting the standard red Brembo brake callipers in grey, black, or yellow, carbon fibre inserts, and pairing the Adrenaline Green paint with a gloss black roof. The Competzione also features highest power output of any model at 180hp.
The most unique edition available to the public is the 659 Rivale, inspired by the ’59 Rivale – a yacht famed for its elegance and power. This model features an exclusive two-tone Evening Blue and Shark Grey paint job with an Aquamarine stripe, reminiscent of the ‘beauty line’ featured on the ’59 Rivale’s hull.
All 595 models will come with either a five or seven inch HD display with DAB radio, Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto as standard.
Beats by Dre supply the sound system which can easily be synched to your phone via Bluetooth, and features a subwoofers in the boot and front door panels, paired with smaller speakers in the a-pillars and rear seating area.
The new Abarth 595 is available to order now from £15,980 OTR – for more information visit Abarth’s official website.
