Abarth 595 (312) Hatchback

Picture a car that weighs about as much as your average garden shed but packs enough punch to embarrass sports cars twice its size. The Abarth 595 takes the humble Fiat 500 and transforms it into a snarling track weapon that’s equally at home bombing down B-roads or turning heads in the city.

This Italian pocket rocket represents everything that makes small performance cars great – lightweight construction, punchy engine, and handling that keeps you grinning like a kid who’s had too much candy. But there’s more to this scorpion-badged beast than just numbers on a spec sheet.

Raw Power in a Small Package

The heart of the 595 is its 1.4-liter T-Jet turbocharged engine. Skip past the modest displacement figure – this little powerplant churns out 165 horsepower in its standard form, reaching up to 180 hp in spicier variants. Every prod of the throttle delivers an eager response, accompanied by a soundtrack that would make most hot hatches blush.

The engine pairs with a snappy 5-speed manual gearbox that demands involvement from the driver. Short throws between gears match perfectly with the car’s character, though you’ll need quick hands to keep up with the engine’s enthusiasm.

“After three years with my 595, the thrill hasn’t faded one bit. The way it shoots out of corners and that crackling exhaust note still puts a massive smile on my face every time.” – Mike Thompson, Abarth Owner’s Club

Each gear change feels mechanical and purposeful, with a satisfying click-clack that reminds you this isn’t your average city runabout. The clutch engagement point is just right – not too heavy for traffic, not too light for spirited driving.

Design That Demands Attention

Abarth’s designers didn’t just stick on a few badges and call it a day. They’ve created a visual punch that matches the car’s performance. The bodywork sits lower and wider than its Fiat sibling, with pronounced wheel arches housing those gorgeous 17-inch alloys.

Let’s look at the key exterior elements that set the 595 apart:

• enlarged front air intakes that gulp down air like an athlete mid-sprint;
• twin exhaust tips that bark and crackle with every downshift;
• red brake calipers peeking through the wheels;
• scorpion badges that remind everyone of this car’s sting.

These aren’t just cosmetic additions – each element serves a purpose in the car’s performance envelope while adding to its distinctive character.

Behind the Wheel Magic

Sliding into the driver’s seat feels like stepping into a miniature race car. The cabin wraps around you with its body-hugging sports seats and perfectly positioned controls. Everything falls naturally to hand, from the chunky steering wheel to the aluminum pedals.

“The first time I took it through a series of switchbacks, I couldn’t believe how planted it felt. It’s like a go-kart with a roof!” – Sarah Martinez, Track Day Enthusiast

The steering is direct and communicative, telling you exactly what the front wheels are doing. Through corners, the 595 displays remarkable poise, with minimal body roll and tenacious grip. It’s the kind of car that makes you take the long way home, just because you can.

Daily Driver or Weekend Warrior?

Despite its performance focus, the 595 hasn’t forgotten about real-world practicality. The boot might be modest, but it’ll swallow a weekly grocery run or weekend bags for two. Urban maneuverability remains a strong point – you can park this thing in spaces that would make a MINI driver think twice.

Consider these daily living aspects:

• fuel economy remains reasonable when driven sensibly;
• suspension, while firm, won’t rattle your fillings loose;
• modern tech includes smartphone connectivity and a decent sound system;
• compact dimensions make city navigation a breeze.

The ride quality deserves special mention – yes, it’s firm, but it’s never harsh enough to make you regret your purchase.

Beyond the Spec Sheet

This isn’t just another hot hatch – it’s a statement of intent. The Abarth 595 proves that performance cars don’t need massive power figures or huge dimensions to deliver driving thrills. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best things come in small packages.

The character and charm of this little firecracker extend far beyond what numbers can convey. It’s not just about getting from A to B; it’s about enjoying every moment between those points.

Pros and Cons

The Abarth 595 isn’t trying to be all things to all people – and that’s exactly why it succeeds. It’s a focused performance machine that delivers exactly what it promises: pure driving excitement in a compact, stylish package.