Even though some might discard Abarth 595 models as little more than expensive takes on the Fiat 500 and 500C, connoisseurs would quickly point out there’s a lot of fun to be had in these pocket rockets. And the Italian automaker is trying to start 2021 with the right foot on the gas pedal, presenting the facelifted 595 range.
Last year was an uneventful one for the little Italian brand, which only revealed two new special edition models – the 595 Monster Energy Yamaha (celebrating sporting success... on two wheels) and the 595 Scorpioneoro (aimed at the stylish collector). Now it’s time for something that has the perspective to move the sales a bit faster.
Comprised of 595, Turismo, Competizione, and Esseesse versions, the updated 595 family is scheduled to arrive at dealerships sometime this year (no exact information has been shared on first deliveries or pricing) with a host of improvements. Sadly, most of them have to do with the visual side, not the technical repertoire.
Offered with hatchback and convertible “pocket rocket” body styles, the Abarth 595 range kicks off with the base 595 version, which is getting a “Scorpion mode” instead of the previous Sport mode and “a new startup and shutdown screen” for the standard 7-inch touchscreen radio. And that’s about it!
Moving on to the Turismo and Competizione models, we hear they’re also upgraded, the former getting a refreshed interior and a new Helmet Brown color option.
The latter adds the vintage Rally Blue exterior paintjob inspired by the Fiat 131 Abarth Rally from the ‘70s, a set of fresh 17-inch alloys (a nod to the Lancia Delta Rally Integrale), along with a few interior additions, such as an Alcantara-clad dash, new leather seats, or a carbon fiber gear lever.
The flagship 595 Esseesse, meanwhile, is bestowed upon with just a newly designed set of titanium tailpipes for the Akrapovi exhaust system, and nothing else. Far worse than seeing this lackluster list of additions is the fact that Abarth hasn’t improved on the horsepower count.
Thus, all versions feature the same 1.4-liter turbo engine, tuned to 145, 165, and 180 metric horsepower levels. At least the company hasn't ditched any of the mechanical goodies - such as the Garrett turbine or the self-locking differential - when trying to comply with the Euro 6D Final emissions regulations.
Aurel has aimed high all his life (literally, at 16 he was flying gliders all by himself) so in 2006 he switched careers and got hired as a writer at his favorite magazine. Since then, his work has been published both by print and online outlets, most recently right here, on autoevolution. Full profile
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