The Abarth 695 tells a tale of Italian engineering at its finest. Born from the streets of Turin, this pocket rocket transforms the humble Fiat 500 into a snarling beast that punches well above its weight class. Every curve, every bolt, and every roar from its exhaust speaks to decades of racing heritage packed into a diminutive yet muscular frame.
The streets of Europe have never been the same since March 2014, when Abarth unleashed this particular scorpion. While other hot hatches focus on raw power, the 695 brings something different to the table – a perfect blend of Italian flair and track-ready performance that fits in the tightest parking spots.
Power in a Small Package
Under the hood lurks a 1.4-liter T-Jet engine that defies physics. This turbocharged powerplant kicks out 180 horsepower – a number that might seem modest until you factor in the car’s featherweight construction. The result? A power-to-weight ratio that makes supercars nervous at traffic lights.
Each component works in perfect harmony, from the Garrett turbocharger to the Brembo brake system. The Sport mode button transforms this city car into a track weapon, sharpening throttle response and unleashing a soundtrack that belongs in motorsport.
“My 695 is like Jekyll and Hyde – docile enough for grocery runs but transforms into a proper monster when you hit that Sport button. The sound alone is worth the price of admission!” – Mike Thompson, Abarth Owner’s Club
The engineering excellence extends to the transmission options. The automated manual gearbox might require some getting used to, but master its quirks, and you’ll be rewarded with lightning-fast shifts that would make Carlo Abarth himself proud. The traditional manual option offers an even more engaging experience for purists.
Racing Heritage Meets Modern Design
Every panel of the 695 screams performance without shouting. The enlarged air intakes feed the hungry turbocharger while the rear diffuser and roof-mounted spoiler aren’t just for show – they provide genuine downforce at speed. Abarth’s scorpion badges aren’t just stickers; they’re badges of honor earned through decades of racing success.
Inside, carbon fiber meets Alcantara in a cockpit designed for serious driving. The seats hold you firmly in place, and every control falls naturally to hand. The flat-bottom steering wheel isn’t just a fashion statement – it provides extra knee clearance during spirited driving.
Key racing-inspired elements include:
- carbon fiber mirror caps for weight reduction;
- Sabelt seats with racing harness points;
- Record Monza exhaust system with variable back pressure;
- Extreme suspension setup with Koni FSD dampers;
- Brembo fixed calipers with cross-drilled rotors.
The attention to detail extends to the smallest touches. Even the gear knob, weighted perfectly for quick shifts, shows how seriously Abarth takes the driving experience. The red line on the tachometer starts at 6,500 rpm – exactly where the engine hits its sweet spot.
Daily Driver or Track Monster?
The 695 excels at being both your daily commuter and weekend warrior. Despite its fierce performance capabilities, it never feels overwhelming in urban environments. The tight turning radius and compact dimensions make city navigation a breeze.
“Three years of daily driving, and it still puts a smile on my face every morning. Sure, it’s firm, but that’s part of its character. It’s like having a pet cheetah that’s house-trained.” – Sarah Martinez, Performance Car Magazine
The limited-slip differential helps put power down effectively, even in wet conditions. While the ride is firm, it’s never punishing – a testament to the sophisticated suspension setup that balances performance with usability.
The Record Monza exhaust system features a valve that can be closed for early morning starts, showing Abarth’s understanding that not everyone appreciates a racing car soundtrack at 7 AM.
Beyond the Numbers
Raw performance figures tell only part of the story. The 695’s true magic lies in how it delivers its performance. Each corner becomes an event, each straight a chance to hear that distinctive exhaust note bounce off walls.
The steering provides feedback that modern electric systems often lack. You feel connected to the road in a way that’s becoming increasingly rare in contemporary performance cars.
Special features that set it apart:
- dual-mode Record Monza exhaust;
- telemetry system for track day analysis;
- titanium components in key areas;
- personalization program for unique specifications;
- heritage color options from Abarth’s racing past.
Competition from larger hot hatches doesn’t faze the 695. It creates its own category – the ultra-performance city car that’s as happy on mountain passes as it is in urban environments.
The Perfect Storm
Looking beyond the specifications reveals why the 695 maintains such a devoted following. It’s not just about the numbers – it’s about character, about making every journey memorable, whether it’s a quick trip to the shops or a day at the track.
This isn’t just another hot hatch; it’s a statement of intent from a brand that refuses to follow the crowd. In an era of increasing homogenization, the 695 stands proud as a unique proposition.
Pros and Cons
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Exceptional power-to-weight ratio with razor-sharp handling | Limited cargo space restricts practicality |
| Distinctive exhaust note from Record Monza system | Firm ride might not suit all drivers |
| Premium materials and racing-inspired interior | Back seats better suited for storage than passengers |
| Compact dimensions perfect for urban environments | Premium fuel requirement adds to running costs |
| Strong residual values due to limited production | Some interior plastics feel below premium expectations |
| Extensive personalization options | Automated manual transmission takes getting used to |
| Rich racing heritage and unique character | Limited dealer network compared to mainstream brands |
The Abarth 695 represents a unique proposition in today’s market – a car that prioritizes character and engagement over outright practicality. While it may not be perfect for everyone, those seeking a genuine performance car in a compact package will find it hard to resist its charms.