The new models are aimed at buyers who want subtle but sporty qualities out of their 500. Power will be the same for each, with a 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder T-Jet motor that makes 160-hp at 169.9 lb-ft of torque. Top speeds reach 131mph, and the tiny car goes form 0-62mph in 7.4 seconds. Performance upgrades are available for both cars, as well.

For the 595 Competizione, a 5-speed manual transmission is included, and the 595 Turismo is mated to an electric manual with steering-wheel-mounted control.

The 595 Turismo is painted in black and red two-tone, comes with 17-inch alloys, and has an interior to match the exterior, plus aluminum accents and pedals.

Fiat’s Competizione version get a coat of Grigio Record exterior paint that coats the 17-inch wheels as well, Brembo brakes, and a two tone leather and alcantara interior.

Also making its premier appearance at the Bologna show is the Abarth 695 “Assetto Corse”, a track version of the 500 that is powered by a 1.4-liter turbo charged four-cylinder. The motor puts out 205hp and the car comes with wheels, brakes, suspension, and transmission all race-spec.

- By: Alexandra Koken

Fiat has just unveiled the new Abarth editions of the 500 and Punto just ahead of their world debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September.

The first is the Fiat Abarth 500 “Cabrio Italia.” Fiat takes the standard 500 Cabrio but to a new level. Aside from the visual upgrades like a special blue paint job and unique wheels, the Fiat Abarth 500 Cabrio Italia also features some upgraded performance kit. This includes what Fiat calls TTC or Torque Transfer Control—a system that is described to be very similar to a limited-slip torque-vectoring diff—as well as upgraded brakes and much more. Power is supplied by the 500 EsseEsse’s 1.4L 16v turbocharged four-banger with an overboost function that is good for 160hp. Power is channeled through a new five-speed manual.

The next version is the Fiat Abarth 500 695 Competizione. Also featuring upgraded visuals and kit, the 695 Competizione is based off of the 695 Tributo Ferrari edition 500. That means the 695 Abarth 695 Competizione packs the same 1.4L 16v turbocharged four-banger good for 180hp.

Lastly, the next new Abarth is actually not a 500, but a Fiat Punto. Called the Fiat Abarth Punto SuperSport, the special edition features a unique matte black paintjob for the hood and the roof—a two-tone livery originally from Grigio Campovolo. Power is supplied by the same 1.4L MultiAir engine as the 500 and is good for the same 180hp. Other mechanical upgrades include an upgraded suspension, brakes and exhaust.

Pricing and availability have yet to be released, but we could expect such information to pop up later on at the full debut in Frankfurt.

- By: Chris Chin

Alfa Romeo Giulietta

Ever since Fiat bought Italian tuning brand Abarth back in 2008 it has churned out vehicles based on the Fiat 500 and Fiat Punto – having sold around 22,000 units. However, Abarth’s sales and marketing boss Antonino Labate, now wants to expand the scope and include selected Alfa vehicles.

“The brand is doing so well that we plan to start producing more performance kits for Fiats, and even some Alfa Romeo models,” he told AutoCar. “We won”t be working with the MiTo since Alfa already has the Cloverleaf, but there are lots of other possibilities.”

While we don’t agree with a non-Abarth-tuned version of the MiTo, we totally understand.

Labate also confirmed that Abarth is working on a stand-alone model that will hit markets within two years and will compete with the likes of the Mazda MX-5.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar

We’ve been hearing about a stand-alone Abarth car for some time now (almost two years to be exact). Well, when you haven’t done a stand-alone sports car in over 30 years — like Abarth — we guess it takes some time to get things started.

Head of sales and marketing at Abarth, Antonino Labate, told AutoCar in an interview that the Abarth sports car will be launched within the next two years. However, contrary to previous reports, Labate said that Lotus will not be involved in the process, nor will it supply the Elise underpinnings.

“The brand is doing so well we will definitely bring our own standalone Abarth coupe model to market within the next two years,” said Labate.

The two-seater Abarth sports car is expected to make around 240-hp, while weighing around 1,984 lbs.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar

Abarth announced today that it will unveil the new Abarth Punto Evo and the Abarth 500C at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show next month, the two latest performance models based on the popular Fiat models.

The Abarth 500C is the first convertible to be launched by the new Abarth. Power comes from a 1.4L 4-cylinder turbo making 140-hp. Mated to a 5-speed automatic manual with paddleshifters, the Abarth 500C goes from 0-62 mph in 7.9 seconds. The Abarth Punto Evo carries a 1.5L turbocharged MultiAir 4-cylinder making 165-hp with a 178-hp esseesse version due shortly after launch.

Both new models will go on sale within the next few months through Abarth’s official dealer network in Europe and Japan.

Abarth 500C:

Abarth Punto Evo:

Press Release:

Abarth at the 80th International Motor Show in Geneva

Abarth is presenting a number of important new products at Geneva in response to intense public interest, and to confirm the Fiat Group’s investment in Abarth. In particular, at this year’s Geneva show, the house of the scorpion will be presenting the Abarth Punto Evo and the Abarth 500C, the latest two performance cars based on already popular and acclaimed Fiat models.

The Abarth Punto Evo is the sporty, high-tech version of the Punto Evo that Fiat introduced last September. Abarth is aiming, with this model, to reinforce its standing with young enthusiastic drivers, a process begun with the Grande Punto, which has sold best to customers in the 18 to 30 age group.

A great deal of curiosity has also been built up ahead of the launch of the Abarth 500C, the first convertible to be launched by the renewed Abarth company. This elegant and dynamic car is packed with Abarth racing spirit and the latest performance technology. The Abarth 500C is more than just a developed version of its Fiat counterpart. On the contrary, it represents a strategic choice by Abarth. With it, the company is making clear advances towards those members of the female public who are seeking not only design and elegance but a good dose of sports performance too.

Both new models will go on sale over the next few months through Abarth’s official dealer network in Europe and Japan, closely followed by other markets, and boosting the company’s already excellent results for 2009.

Proof that the direction taken by Abarth is the right one comes from the statistics. These announce quite clearly that the brand is experiencing continuous growth: from 2008 to the present day, Abarth has sold 20,000 cars, including 8,400 Abarth 500s and 2,700 Abarth Grande Puntos, to say nothing of 4,600 performance kits. So it is no wonder that this impressive commercial success has led to an equally rapid growth in the number of dealers and official performance centres associated with the marque.

As well as consolidating its existing markets, Abarth is also extending its network in strategic European towns and cities like Amsterdam and Paris, and expanding into east European markets like Rumania, as well as Mediterranean basin markets like Israel.

The Abarth distribution network is already unique, boasting 141 showrooms, 140 official performance centres and 300 service centres in Europe. These figures do not take account of the recently established “Abarth Racing” performance tuning network, which already boasts 6 centres holding exclusive sales and assistance rights for customers purchasing Abarth’s race-ready models.

The stand at the Geneva show Abarth’s stand at the 2010 edition of the Geneva motor show has been completely redesigned to provide a worthy stage for the international debut of two new models.

The concept behind the new stand is one of simplicity: the stand’s design is not a means of communication in itself, but serves only to drawing attention to the values of the Abarth brand. Wherever its cars are found, Abarth is such a clearly recognised protagonist that it can afford to present itself to the public without frills, in its most essential form. This year’s more essential stand helps focus on the two new Abarths making their world debut in Geneva and destined to enrich the Abarth range.

Abarth’s stage for presenting itself to the world consists of a spacious stand divided into two main illuminated areas, each focusing on one of the new cars.

A huge pane of glass in the centre of the space carries the instantly recognisable Abarth logo, while a large LED display creates a backdrop to the new cars and functions as a central feature in the stand’s design.

The entire stand is based on symmetric, straight lines, right angles and neutral, almost unnoticeable materials. White structural components and an abundance of transparent materials eliminate visual “noise” and focus clearly on content.

Technical drawings of Abarth vehicles are displayed under the glass floor. This intelligent solution makes the drawings easily visible to all visitors, reflecting the era when Abarth cars used to have partly raised engine covers to display their performance parts.

Intangible content like light, sound, and digital media is used not as a mere accessory, but to help identify the stand’s focal points in a more integrated and coordinated manner, and to create a sense of dynamism and movement. The neutral and minimalist space is filled and coloured by scenes representing a sequence of Abarth values: challenge, passion, ingenuity, Italian style, participation, determination, and authenticity.

The stand creates a fascinating and warm welcome to the world of Abarth and provides an ideal context for presenting the two latest expressions of the marque of the scorpion: the Abarth Punto Evo and the Abarth 500C.

- By: Kap Shah

It’s not like that Ferrari modified Fiat 500 wasn’t official yesterday but nothing is as official as high-res photos and a press release to go along with it. While you’ll notice the 695 Tributo Ferrari visually sets itself apart from other Fiat 500s, what you won’t see with your eyes are the modifications made by Ferrari and Abarth.

Power for the 695 Tributo Ferrari comes from a 180-hp 1.4L Turbo T-Jet 16v engine that is mated to an MTA (Manual Transmission Automated) with race-inspired steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. Braking power comes from 284 mm multi-section discs with fixed four-piston calipers by Brembo. Abarth says that there is a “Record Monza” variable back-pressure “dual mode” exhaust, designed to boost engine performance.

The exterior of the 695 Tributo Ferrari is painted in Scuderia Red with carbon fiber mirror housings and rear air intakes in Racing Gray. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels inspired by Ferrari wheels. The model will be built in limited amounts with the interior carrying a special plate bearing the vehicle series number.

Hop over the jump for the press release.

Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari:

Press Release:

The Abarth 695 “Tributo Ferrari”

The Abarth 695 “Tributo Ferrari” makes its world debut at Frankfurt. This new performance version of the Abarth 500 confirms the link between Abarth and Ferrari based on shared values that include a passion for performance, a racing soul, attention to detail and Italian style.

Abarth and Ferrari are two great names that have contributed, with conviction and dedication, to the legend of Italian racing that is known around the world. The legendary men behind both marques followed very similar careers: first drivers, then tuners and finally heads of companies that command genuine respect in the world of motor racing. These extraordinary men were associated in the past: in 1953, for example, a unique Ferrari-Abarth was born, the Ferrari 166/250 MM Abarth. The car raced in various international trophies including the legendary Mille Miglia. The tie between the two companies has been reinforced above all by the exhaust systems designed by Abarth specifically for the cars built at Maranello: numerous exhaust systems have been made for various Ferrari models, some of which have won World Championship titles.

The two brands have recently renewed their collaboration. The first result of this was the supply of a limited and numbered series of Abarth 500′s to Ferrari’s European dealers in recent months for use as “courtesy cars”.

Now, attention turns to the new Abarth 695 “Tributo Ferrari”, an exclusive vehicle that not only enables Abarth to extend its range by entering into the luxury sports car market, but also offers Ferrari customers a small but exciting small car for all their mobility needs, including practical urban mobility.

The new Abarth 695 “Tributo Ferrari” is distinguished by a number of stylistic changes, but more importantly by substantial modifications developed by Abarth and Ferrari engineers. The engine, for a start, is a 1.4 Turbo T-Jet 16v, tuned to develop over 180 HP. This is combined with an MTA (Manual Transmission Automated) electromechanical gearbox with race-inspired paddle gearshift that makes full use of the engine’s performance by reducing gearshift times.

To improve acceleration, the car is fitted with performance tyres on 17” alloy wheels featuring a design inspired by Ferrari wheels. The suspension and braking systems have also been strengthened to cope with the extra power: 284 mm multi-section discs with fixed four-piston calipers, both by Brembo, and special shock absorbers let you enjoy performance in total safety.

And of course there is a “Record Monza” variable back-pressure “dual mode” exhaust, designed to improve engine performance and deliver an inspiring sound over 3,000 rpm.

On the outside, the car is finished in Scuderia Red, with carbon fibre door mirrors and with details like the wheels and rear air intakes in Racing Grey. This new Abarth is equipped with Xenon headlights with dipped and main beam functions for improved light emission and excellent efficiency under all weather conditions. Made by Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting, these elements deliver three times the light intensity and duration of standard halogen lamp headlights.

The interiors are also personalised and demonstrate the attention to detail and the sporting style that are common to both brands. “Abarth Corsa by Sabelt” seats are fitted and finished in black leather with a shell and seat base in carbon fibre. These seats offer a perfect blend of racing characteristics ““ light weight (10 kg less than the standard seat) and the ability hold the body steady against lateral and longitudinal forces, thanks to body support elements filled with crush-resistant foam ““ with the ergonomics and comfort of road seats.

The black leather steering wheel is characterised by red leather inserts and a tricolour hub on which the MTA gearshift paddles are mounted, while the instrument panel is specially made by Jaeger, and inspired by typical Ferrari instrumentation. Attention to detail has gone into the floor too: the foot wells are covered entirely in non-slip aluminium and the racing pedals are personalised with the Scorpion logo. The interior is embellished with other details too, like special kick plates and a plate bearing the vehicle series number.

- By: Kap Shah

UK publication AutoCar is reporting that Fiat is working on a Abarth version of the new 500C convertible. Sources say that unlike most convertibles that suffer from a loss stiffness in the bodyshell, the Abarth 500C will have the same roll-back canvas roof, which retains the roof rails and pillars. As a result, the car will keep its rigidity and will avoid weight gain.

Planning to go head-to-head with the Mini Cooper Cabrio, power will come a 1.4 T-Jet making 133-hp and an Esseesse model with 157-hp.

The Abarth 500C will arrive sometime in early 2010.

2009 Fiat 500C:

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Source: AutoCar

Celebrating Abarth’s return to the Dutch market, Fiat and Abarth have released this limited edition 500 Competizione.

Power comes from the same 1.4L 4-cylinder turbo used in the standard Fiat 500 Abarth that produces 135-hp with a peak torque of 152 lb-ft. To make it special, the Abarth Fiat 500 Competizione features a black-roof, 17-inch black alloy wheels and Abarth graphics on the side. Inside, the special-edition model gets Competizione logos with navigation, an upgraded audio system and climate control as standard.

Only 10 units of the Abarth Fiat 500 Competizione will be made with prices starting at €24,995 ($35,214 USD).

Abarth Fiat 500 Competizione:

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Celebrating Karl Abarth’s centenary, Abarth has released a limited edition version of the new Abarth 500 which it’s calling the ‘DA 0 A 100.’ Only 101 units of the car will be made which pay tribute to the founder’s passion. What’s so special about this Abarth 500 besides its weird name?

On the outside the Nuvolari Grey Abarth 500 DA 0 A 100 gets Abarth stripes, a silencer with 4 terminals outlining the special exhaust pipe and chrome plated badging all around the car. Inside the limited edition Abarth 500 gets leather seats with silver stitching, leather thumb rests on the steering wheel and yes – a bunch of DA 0 A 100 badging.

The Abarth 500 DA 0 A 100 is powered by a 1.4 Turbo T-Jet engine that makes 160-hp and a peak torque of 170 lb-ft. 0 to 62 mph comes in 7.3 seconds with a top speed of 131 mph. Stopping power is provided by high-performance brake pads and perforated disc brakes on the front and rear. The Abarth 500 DA 0 A 100 tides on 17-inch wheels with chrome-plated hub covers wrapped in Pirelli Pzero Nero tires.

Abarth 500 DA 0 A 100:

Abarth will be attending the 2008 Paris Motor Show to show it Fiat 500 Abarth with the “esseesse” kit that gives your 500 Abarth a little more oomph. The “esseesse” kit comes in an elegant wooden case and is sold and installed by the official network of Abarth converters.

The kit allows the 1.4 16v Turbo T-Jet engine to pump out a total of 197-hp with a maximum torque of 167 lb-ft. That allows for a 0 to 62 mph time of 7.4 seconds with a top speed of 131 mph. The “esseesse” kit also gives the Fiat 500 Abarth ventilated front brake discs, perforated rear brake discs, high-performance brake pads, lowered springs, and 17-inch allow wheels wrapped in Pirelli Pzero tires.

You also get a air filter powered by BMC, four tire pressure sensors and “esseesse” badges so you can show off your “esseesseness.”

Click through for high-res images.

Fiat 500 Abarth esseesse:

Abarth, Fiat’s tuning division, is hard at work at their first Abarth-only model. Designed by Italy’s IED Design Institute, the small two-seater roadster will be based on the SS concept (shown above) and will be the first of future Abarth only models.

The guys at AutoCar have learned that Abarth has successfully struck a deal with Lotus to use the next-generation Elise underpinnings for the upcoming roadster that will arrive in Europe sometime in 2011. Sources say that using Lotus resources, Abarth will be able to cut back on in-house cost and the complexity of building a new chassis.

The lightweight two-seater will be powered by a 240 horsepower 4-cylinder turbocharged, direct-injection engine.

Source: AutoCar