Vehicle model
Abarth 595 (nouvelle génération)
The Abarth 595 represents the modern renaissance of an Italian compact performance legend, drawing its roots from the Carlo Abarth heritage that transformed the original Fiat 500 into a pocket rocket during the 1960s. Launched in 2008 following the resurrection of the Abarth brand by the Fiat group, the modern 595 builds upon the base of the relaunched Fiat 500 from 2007, perpetuating a decades-old tradition of sporting preparation. From its introduction, the Abarth 595 positioned itself as an appealing alternative to the Mini Cooper S and other European sport compacts, offering assertive Italian character, explosive temperament, and irresistible retro-modern styling. The 595's design retains the rounded lines and vintage charm of the Fiat 500 while adding a generous dose of sporting aggression. Muscular fender flares, sculpted side skirts, a pronounced rear spoiler, iconic Record Monza exhaust outlets, and distinctive Scorpion badges clearly announce the model's sporting intentions. The interior receives Sabelt bucket seats, a sport steering wheel, aluminum inserts, and specific instrumentation constantly reminding the driver they're behind the wheel of an authentic Abarth. Mechanically, the 595 introduces the turbocharged 1.4 T-Jet engine that would become the range's signature. In its base configuration, this four-cylinder develops approximately 145 horsepower, but Abarth quickly offers more muscular variants. The 595 Turismo provides a compromise between performance and daily comfort, while the 595 Competizione positions itself as the most radical version with sharpened chassis settings and increased power. The pyramid's summit arrives with the 695 Biposto in 2014, an ultra-lightweight two-seater version developing up to 190 horsepower, designed for track use. In 2016, Abarth implements a significant update with the adoption of a modernized dashboard borrowed from the restyled Fiat 500, integrating a 7-inch Uconnect touchscreen and contemporary connectivity systems. The range also expands with regular special series celebrating the brand's sporting heritage: 595 Pista, 595 Trofeo, 695 Rivale, and various limited editions paying homage to Abarth's historic victories or prestigious partnerships like those with Yamaha or Ferrari. The five-speed manual transmission long remains the preferred option for purists, but Abarth also introduces an automated robotized gearbox that, despite initial criticism regarding smoothness, offers an alternative for urban environments. The lowered sport chassis, Brembo brakes on certain versions, and sport suspension calibrated by Abarth engineers transform the small city car into a road kart capable of challenging much more powerful vehicles on winding roads. Critical reception praises the 595's unique character, its explosive Latin temperament, and driving pleasure, though some point out occasionally excessive suspension firmness for daily use and sometimes sparse standard equipment. Nevertheless, the Abarth 595 establishes itself as a modern icon of the sport compact, keeping alive the flame of a legendary brand and offering a passionate driving experience in an ultra-compact format, seducing thrill-seekers worldwide.
History
History of the Abarth 595 (nouvelle génération)
The Abarth 595 represents the modern renaissance of an Italian compact performance legend, drawing its roots from the Carlo Abarth heritage that transformed the original Fiat 500 into a pocket rocket during the 1960s. Launched in 2008 following the resurrection of the Abarth brand by the Fiat group, the modern 595 builds upon the base of the relaunched Fiat 500 from 2007, perpetuating a decades-old tradition of sporting preparation. From its introduction, the Abarth 595 positioned itself as an appealing alternative to the Mini Cooper S and other European sport compacts, offering assertive Italian character, explosive temperament, and irresistible retro-modern styling. The 595's design retains the rounded lines and vintage charm of the Fiat 500 while adding a generous dose of sporting aggression. Muscular fender flares, sculpted side skirts, a pronounced rear spoiler, iconic Record Monza exhaust outlets, and distinctive Scorpion badges clearly announce the model's sporting intentions. The interior receives Sabelt bucket seats, a sport steering wheel, aluminum inserts, and specific instrumentation constantly reminding the driver they're behind the wheel of an authentic Abarth. Mechanically, the 595 introduces the turbocharged 1.4 T-Jet engine that would become the range's signature. In its base configuration, this four-cylinder develops approximately 145 horsepower, but Abarth quickly offers more muscular variants. The 595 Turismo provides a compromise between performance and daily comfort, while the 595 Competizione positions itself as the most radical version with sharpened chassis settings and increased power. The pyramid's summit arrives with the 695 Biposto in 2014, an ultra-lightweight two-seater version developing up to 190 horsepower, designed for track use. In 2016, Abarth implements a significant update with the adoption of a modernized dashboard borrowed from the restyled Fiat 500, integrating a 7-inch Uconnect touchscreen and contemporary connectivity systems. The range also expands with regular special series celebrating the brand's sporting heritage: 595 Pista, 595 Trofeo, 695 Rivale, and various limited editions paying homage to Abarth's historic victories or prestigious partnerships like those with Yamaha or Ferrari. The five-speed manual transmission long remains the preferred option for purists, but Abarth also introduces an automated robotized gearbox that, despite initial criticism regarding smoothness, offers an alternative for urban environments. The lowered sport chassis, Brembo brakes on certain versions, and sport suspension calibrated by Abarth engineers transform the small city car into a road kart capable of challenging much more powerful vehicles on winding roads. Critical reception praises the 595's unique character, its explosive Latin temperament, and driving pleasure, though some point out occasionally excessive suspension firmness for daily use and sometimes sparse standard equipment. Nevertheless, the Abarth 595 establishes itself as a modern icon of the sport compact, keeping alive the flame of a legendary brand and offering a passionate driving experience in an ultra-compact format, seducing thrill-seekers worldwide.
Technology
Technologies, engines and platforms
The Abarth 595 is based on the modernized Fiat 500 platform, featuring a turbocharged 1.4 T-Jet MultiAir gasoline engine developing between 145 and 180 horsepower depending on versions (up to 190 hp on the 695 Biposto). MultiAir technology optimizes intake valve management to improve performance and efficiency. The five-speed manual transmission is complemented by an optional sequential robotized gearbox. The lowered sport chassis integrates stiffened suspensions, recalibrated electric power steering, and Brembo brakes on certain variants. Technologies include the Uconnect system with touchscreen (from 2016), Bluetooth connectivity, and various driver aids like ABS, ESP, and traction control. Sport mode modifies engine mapping and throttle response for more dynamic driving.
Tires and wheels
Tire and wheel compatibility
Tire and wheel dimensions on the Abarth 595 vary depending on the year, version (standard, Turismo, Competizione), and options. Always verify your vehicle's exact specifications in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's plate to ensure proper and optimal fitment.
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