Two new model names herald the UK arrival of the new high-performance Fiat Abarth 500 and 595 ranges.

An overhaul of the original and highly successful Abarth 500 line-up signifies a milestone in the development of the historic Scorpion brand. And to celebrate that history, two new versions of the sporting hatchback and convertible have been revealed: the 595 Turismo and the 595 Competizione. Both of these cars will come as standard with a 160bhp version of the turbocharged 1.4 T-Jet engine, to offer greater choice for customers in terms of enhanced standard specifications.

The original Abarth 500 will remain as an entry-level model, though a new colour, and extra standard equipment has been added, while the on-the-road price has been reduced. An esseesse higher performance option will continue to be available for the Abarth 500 as part of a dealer upgrade kit. All three new versions will be available in manual form or with Abarth’s MTA (Manual Transmission Automated) semi-automatic gearbox.

“When the ground-breaking Abarth 595 SS was created in 1964 it established itself as a genuine performance car and a force to be reckoned with on and off the circuits,” says Ivan Gibson, head of Abarth in the UK. “It is therefore fitting that our two new versions revive the great 595 brand in the form of the Turismo and the Competizione.

“While the Abarth 500 is positioned as an entry point for customers to gain access to the brand, the 595 models will now allow customers to progress or renew their Abarth experience and will also attract new drivers to the marque.”

Abarth 500 UK Pricing and technical specifications

Main standard features:

  • 1.4-litre T-Jet engine 135bhp (manual) 140bhp (MTA)
  • ‘Corsa’ pack including Inox pedals, footrest and door kick-plates
  • Sport mode
  • 16-inch alloy wheels
  • Air conditioning
  • Front fog lights
  • Rear parking sensors
  • Leather gear lever surround
  • Four pastel colours
  • Price (MTA): 500 – £13,975 (£15,275) / 500C – £15,875 (£17,175)

Abarth 595 Turismo

Main standard features:

  • 1.4-litre T-Jet engine 160bhp (manual and MTA)
  • ‘Turismo’ pack including Alutex pedals, footrest and door kick-plates, bespoke floor mats, machined aluminium fuel and oil filler caps
  • Dark tinted rear windows
  • Upgraded front and rear dampers
  • Automatic climate control
  • Leather upholstery
  • 17-inch 10-spoke Diamond finish alloy wheels
  • Xenon headlights
  • Red brake callipers
  • Titanium Grey front and rear sports grilles
  • 10 exterior colours
  • Price (MTA): 500 – £17,725 (£19,025) / 500C – £19,625 (£20,925)
Abarth 595 Competizione

Main standard features:

  • 1.4-litre T-Jet engine 160bhp (manual and MTA)
  • ‘Competizione’ pack including aluminium pedals, footrest and door kick-plates, bespoke floor mats, machined aluminium fuel and oil filler caps
  • Dark tinted rear windows
  • Upgraded front and rear dampers
  • Cross-drilled front and rear disc brakes
  • Sabelt seats in fabric upholstery
  • Monza exhaust upgrade
  • 17-inch, 5-spoke Anthracite/Diamond finish alloy wheels
  • Xenon headlights
  • Red brake callipers
  • Titanium Grey front and rear sports grilles
  • 10 exterior colours
  • Price (MTA): 500 – £18,725 (20,025) / 500C – £20,625 (£21,925)

All Fiat Arbath 500 models are available through Abarth’s UK network of 24 dealers.