Fiat 595 2017
However, straight line pace has never been the Abarth's problem. Instead, it's the 595's lack of adjustability that has prevented it from being looked upon as a truly rewarding driver's car. And unfortunately, that hasn't changed here. The new limited-slip diff feels almost intermittent in its operation and the car's innate tendency to succumb to understeer early is still a prevalent theme. Compared with the best hot hatches, which allow you to modify your line with a lift of the throttle or some well-calculated braking, the 595 feels rather one dimensional.
That said, despite not being the most involving hatch on the market, the 595 is still startling quick point to point. Uprated Koni frequency-selective dampers endow the 595 with impressive body control, and allow the top heavy Abarth to remain surprisingly flat through quick direction changes. Granted, on busier road surfaces, things can get fairly lively inside the cabin, but it's something we'd be prepared to live with in return for the precision of the Abarth's movements when things get twistier.
However, what we'd struggle to live with is the Abarth's carbon backed Sabelt seats. From the Alcantara inserts, to the fighter jet inspired seat pulls, these £1,200 competition spec units are dripping with quality. And yet, for everyday driving, they are wholly inappropriate.
With minimal cushioning and a lack of lumbar support, back pain is guaranteed, and despite their sporty looks, you feel like you're sitting on them rather than in them. And don't try adjusting them on the move, either. With a spatially challenged interior, it's virtually impossible to reach the seat adjuster without opening the door. A triumph of function over form? Absolutely.
Should I buy one?
From Chelsea to Chester the 595 Abarth remains a common sight, despite commanding a significant premium over more complete hot hatches, such as the Fiesta ST and Renault Clio RS. Why you might ask? Character. With its city-car on steroids looks, silly soundtrack and extravagant carbon-fiber laden interior, the 595 is desirable in a way that something like a Mini Cooper S simply isn't.
Yes, it's a shame that the addition of a limited-slip differential and uprated dampers haven't endowed the Abarth with the kind of playful chassis we've come to expect from modern hot hatches, but will that affect sales? Will it heck.
Abarth 595 Competizione 2017
LocationNorth Yorkshire; On saleNow; Price £20,290;Engine 4 cyls, 1368cc, turbo, petrol;Power 178bhp at 5500rpm;Torque 184lb ft at 3000rpm;Gearbox 5-spd manual;Kerb weight1045kg;Top speed 143mph;0-62mph 6.7sec;Economy 47.1mpg (combined);CO2/tax band 139g/km, 24%
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Source: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/abarth/595-competizione/first-drives/abarth-595-competizione-2017-review
