New Abarth 595 Models: 160bhp Turismo and Competizione

Fancy a high-performance city car, but not so keen on ordering one version (the standard Abarth 500) and then having it uprated with dealer-fitted (esseesse) equipment? Well, help is now at hand, with the introduction of two new models to the Abarth 500 line-up.

The Abarth 595 Turismo (top) comes with a 160bhp, 1.4-litre turbo four-cylinder – that’s an extra 30bhp over the existing car in non-esseesse specification. The Turismo comes with a host of standard features such as leather upholstery, 17in 10-spoke alloys and xenon headlamps.

The Competizione version (below) takes the stakes a little higher, with extra features over the Turismo that include cross-drilled front and rear disc brakes, Sabelt seats in fabric upholstery and a ‘Monza’ exhaust.

Both can be ordered as a tin-top or convertible, with robotised-manual, automatic transmission an option.

The good news does not end there. In the UK, buyers will now be able to purchase the standard, 130bhp car for £500 less than previously advertised (now £13,975 for the 'saloon'). In manual form, the Turismo starts at £17,725, the Competizione £18,725. Automatic transmission is a £1,300 option.

Photos: Abarth