Fiat launches Abarth 595 ‘50th Anniversary’

Fiat Australia today announces the arrival of the Abarth 595 ‘50th Anniversary’ model – the fastest and most powerful 595 so far.

Only 50 examples of the global limited edition model have been secured for Australia and prices start at $45,000 excluding on-roads.

“Without doubt the Abarth 595 is an inspirational car for enthusiasts and we’re delighted to have secured 56 ‘50th Anniversary’ models for Australian customers,” revealed Veronica Johns, President and CEO of Fiat Chrysler Australia. “We’re sure some will be snapped-up by collectors but equally, those with a passion for iconic high-performance Italian cars will find the Abarth 595 ‘50th Anniversary’ comprehensively equipped and a delight to drive every day.”

Power comes from Fiat’s scintillating turbocharged, four-cylinder 1.4-litre T-Jet which has been boosted to 132kW/250Nm thanks to an overboost function activated by pressing the ‘Sport’ button to adjust Electronic Control Unit mapping and turbocharger boost pressure. The 595 is a substantial 14 kW and 49 Nm more powerful than the Abarth 500.

Read our Abarth 500 EsseEsse review

Drive is to the front wheels via an electronically actuated ‘Abarth Competizione’ five-speed sequential mechanical gearbox with steering wheel paddles.

The extra power allows the 595 to sprint from zero to 100km/h in less than seven seconds, before hitting a top speed of 225km/h.

Matching the boosted performance is a distinctive soundtrack provided by the ‘Record Monza’ variable back-pressure dual mode exhaust system with quad tips.

The Abarth 595 rolls on sports tyres mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels with 695 Magnesio Grey design embellished by an aggressive red liner. Also standard are Xenon headlights with dipped and driving light functions and sunroof.

Inside, the Abarth 595 ‘50th Anniversary’ comes with red leather sports seats with white inserts and red stitching, leather wrapped steering wheel with red inserts and kick plates.

Other standard equipment includes an automatic climate control system with pollen filter, fog lights, CD/MP3 radio with controls on the steering wheel, an Interscope Hi-Fi system and Blue&Me™.

Driving dynamics are enhanced by Dualdrive™ electric power steering with ‘Sport’ function, rear parking sensors and the TTC (Torque Transfer Control) system which optimizes torque transfer to the front wheels to enhance handling without diminishing driving fun.