2018 Fiat 500 Abarth Concept, Redesign and Review
Read our most comprehensive review of the 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth standard features, trim levels, and available options. Additional new features for the 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth include a heated steering wheel, and optional heated and power operated front seats on lower-trim models with cloth upholstery. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional. In addition to the gas-only model, the 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth is also available as a hybrid with all-wheel drive as standard.
YOU’LL LIKE
- Many trims to choose from
- Fuel efficient hybrid variant
- An 8.4-inch infotainment screen on most trims
YOU WON’T LIKE
- All-wheel drive is only available with the V-6
- Subpar interior fit and finish
- The V-6 engine could use more power
In a 2017 comparison test that included the other cars, the 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth placed fifth. Handling also proved to be another 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth weak spot and we found the steering to be numb.
The 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth, on the other hand, is a better package, as we noted in a 2017 First Test, thanks to its smooth powertrain and well-calibrated brakes that smoothly transition between regenerative and mechanical braking. However, since it isn’t a plug-in hybrid, the 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth doesn’t have much EV mode range and can only travel around 0.5 miles on electricity.A rear view camera with rear parking sensors is now standard on all models.
The car is the only 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth trim level that can be had with a cool two-tone exterior color scheme. The ride itself was smooth, and road imperfections were barely felt.”