Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Abarth 695 Maserati Edition bows at Mille Miglia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/abarth-695-maserati-edition-bows-at-mille-miglia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/abarth-695-maserati-edition-bows-at-mille-miglia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/abarth-695-maserati-edition-bows-at-mille-miglia/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Fiat 500 in its various guises positively romps on its popularity, making special-edition hay with terrific frequency. This latest outing in the form of the Abarth 695 Maserati Edition follows a familiar trail, coming three years after the Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari that debuted at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

That hatch had a tuned 1.4-liter turbo four putting out more than 180 horsepower, a variable exhaust system and paddle-shifting automated manual under its Ferrari 430 Scuderia-mimicking paint scheme. But aside from the paint, this one gets much the same treatment: 180-hp output, Abarth Competizione gearbox and dual mode exhaust.

It goes the GranTurismo route instead of hard-core sports car, though, using the convertible Abarth as a base and adding Pontevecchio Bordeaux paint with a gray top, sand-beige leather and black interior, Jaeger instrumentation, and 17-inch Maserati-style Neptune wheels and hexagonal tailpipes. Still, it gets even bigger Brembo brakes than the Ferrari version.

Just 499 will be made for "mainly" European markets, naturally, so the closest we'll get to it is the high-res gallery above the the press release below.

Continue reading Abarth 695 Maserati Edition bows at Mille Miglia

Abarth 695 Maserati Edition bows at Mille Miglia originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500500 abarth500c500c abarthabarthabarth 695 maserati editionfiatfiat 500fiat 500 abarthMon, 21 May 2012 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20241355/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/21/abarth-695-maserati-edition-bows-at-mille-miglia/20241355/article-detail.xml 20241355 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/abarth695maseratied_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/abarth695maseratied.jpg <![CDATA[Another slew of Fiat 500 Abarth ads with Catrinel Menghia released]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/another-slew-of-fiat-500-abarth-ads-with-catrinel-menghia-releas/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/another-slew-of-fiat-500-abarth-ads-with-catrinel-menghia-releas/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/another-slew-of-fiat-500-abarth-ads-with-catrinel-menghia-releas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Ah, Catrinel Menghia. Fiat knows a good thing when it finds one, and so it's no surprise to see a trio of new advertisements staring the Romanian-born and Italian-speaking model alongside the 2012 500 Abarth.

First up is a minute-long montage showing the Scorpion-addled Abarth flung around the desert while Catrinel... well, stands around looking beautiful. Next, the turbocharged 500 drives down the Las Vegas Strip while Ms. Menghia walks around looking beautiful. Notice a trend?

In the third video of this new series, Catrinel finally gets to drive the Abarth in a race against a lucky cameraman. Well, sort of. The two cars are actually piloted by "professional drivers on a closed course" - as you can see, they are wearing helmets. Catrinel and the cameraman, on the other hand, emerge from their black and white 500s with hair blowing in the wind.

No matter. Clearly these videos are meant to build upon the first extremely successful tie-up between the model and the Italian hatchback. We've gone ahead and included that initial commercial, along with the three new ones, below. Enjoy!

Continue reading Another slew of Fiat 500 Abarth ads with Catrinel Menghia released

Another slew of Fiat 500 Abarth ads with Catrinel Menghia released originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500 abarth500500 abarthabarthcatrinel menghiacinquecentofiatfiat 500videoFri, 27 Apr 2012 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20226129/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/27/another-slew-of-fiat-500-abarth-ads-with-catrinel-menghia-releas/20226129/article-detail.xml 20226129 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/abarth-500-model-3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/abarth-500-model-3.jpg <![CDATA[Baby channels Catrinel Menghia in new Fiat ad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/18/baby-channels-catrinel-menghia-in-new-fiat-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/18/baby-channels-catrinel-menghia-in-new-fiat-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/18/baby-channels-catrinel-menghia-in-new-fiat-ad/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Fiat scored a major hit with its commercial for the 500 Abarth starring Romanian model Catrinel Menghia. Released last November as a web-only video, the spot exploded in popularity when it hit the airwaves during the Super Bowl in February. Having proven that a dollop of sexiness is enough to get your attention, Fiat has chosen a different but equally well-proven tactic for this new 500 Abarth commercial: babies.

We'll save the plot for your viewing pleasure below, but just mention that teaching your baby to speak Italian is way cooler than sign language.

Continue reading Baby channels Catrinel Menghia in new Fiat ad

Baby channels Catrinel Menghia in new Fiat ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Mar 2012 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500500 abarthcatrinel menghiacommercialfiatSun, 18 Mar 2012 20:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20195327/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/18/baby-channels-catrinel-menghia-in-new-fiat-ad/20195327/article-detail.xml 20195327 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/fiat-500-abarth-baby_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/fiat-500-abarth-baby.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Fiat 500 Abarth [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/2012-fiat-500-abarth-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/2012-fiat-500-abarth-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/2012-fiat-500-abarth-first-drive-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As Well-Heeled As An Italian Supermodel



Not to spoil the rest of this article, but the number one thing that the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth has going for it is its styling. That isn't to say the rest of the car isn't worth writing home about - quite the contrary, actually - but if there's one driving factor that makes you want to run to the Fiat dealership and spend your hard-earned dollars on an Abarth, it's how it looks. You'll read a vast variety of opinions across this great big Interweb about the 500 Abarth's driving dynamics, interior refinement and value, but you'll be hard-pressed to find one critic who considers the Abarth anything less than molto bella.

Smart, then, that the Chrysler Group chose to employ European goddess/supermodel Catrinel Menghia for its seductive Super Bowl ad spot starring the 500 Abarth, ending the 60-second commercial with the phrase, "You'll never forget the first time you see one."

So three months after we first met the North American-spec 500 Abarth in person at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, we finally got the chance to see if our lust for the cute little Italian runs more than skin-deep. On Fiat's invitation we hit the roads - and track - around Las Vegas to see exactly how powerful the scorpion's sting really is.

Continue reading 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth [w/video]

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500 abarth500500 abarthfeaturedfiatfiat 500 abarth reviewfirst driveFirstDriveMon, 05 Mar 2012 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20185434/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/2012-fiat-500-abarth-first-drive-review-video/20185434/article-detail.xml 20185434 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/09-2012-fiat-500-abarth-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/09-2012-fiat-500-abarth-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Charlie Sheen injects some tiger's blood into Fiat 500 Abarth]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/01/charlie-sheen-injects-some-tigers-blood-into-fiat-500-abarth/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/01/charlie-sheen-injects-some-tigers-blood-into-fiat-500-abarth/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/01/charlie-sheen-injects-some-tigers-blood-into-fiat-500-abarth/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth Charlie Sheen commercial

What do you do when you want to cast your cute little city car as a truly bad ass performance machine? How about hiring an infamous drug enthusiast actor, a guy who insists he has "tiger blood" flowing through his veins?

Yes, that's right, Fiat has enlisted none other than Charlie Sheen to promote its Abarth-tuned version of the 500 here in the States. Sheen's appearance in the commercial is brief, portraying himself hot-shoeing the small car around a palatial home - indoors, during a party, mind you - while under "house arrest." Sheen, of course, is the former star of Two and a Half Men, who was reportedly the highest-paid actor on television before being fired for badmouthing the show's creator last year. Sheen's antics also included demanding a 50 percent raise and threatening a lawsuit against his employers, despite being hospitalized for substance abuse-related issues at least three times.

The Fiat 500 Abarth goes on sale this spring, while Sheen's new FX series, Anger Management, premieres on Thursday, June 28 at 9 p.m.

To watch the new commercial, click past the jump.

Continue reading Charlie Sheen injects some tiger's blood into Fiat 500 Abarth

Charlie Sheen injects some tiger's blood into Fiat 500 Abarth originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500 abarth500500 abarthabarthanger managementcatrinel menghiacharlie sheencinquecentofiatfiat 500 abarth commercialsheenvideoThu, 01 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20183764/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/01/charlie-sheen-injects-some-tigers-blood-into-fiat-500-abarth/20183764/article-detail.xml 20183764 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/fiat-500-abarth-sheen-commercial-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/fiat-500-abarth-sheen-commercial-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Hagerty predicts this year's future classics]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/hagerty-predicts-this-years-future-classics/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/hagerty-predicts-this-years-future-classics/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/hagerty-predicts-this-years-future-classics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,



The world would be considerably less entertaining if we could all predict the future. Even so, the classic car gurus at Hagerty Insurance have cast a few chicken bones in an attempt to figure out which vehicles produced today might eventually turn collectible.

The company restricted entrants to hardware with a price tag of less than $100,000, so the list isn't populated with too many wild exotics. While vehicles like the Nissan GT-R Black Edition, Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca Edition, Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and Porsche 911 are low-hanging fruit, the list also featured a few surprises.

For starters, it begins with none other than the mighty Buick Regal GS. Hagerty says the vehicle is a win because it's the first Buick with a manual transmission since the fall of the Holy Roman Empire. The Fiat 500 Abarth also makes an appearance alongside an even hotter hatch, the Volkswagen Golf R. Of course, we're simply thrilled to see the sinister Audi TT RS make a showing. Hit the jump for the full list or view each vehicle in our gallery above.

Continue reading Hagerty predicts this year's future classics

Hagerty predicts this year's future classics originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500500 abarth911audibuickcamarocamaro zl1chargercharger srt8chevroletdodgefiatfordfuture classicsgolfgolf rgrand cherokeegrand cherokee srt8gt-rgt-r black editionhagertyhagerty insuranceinsurancejeepmustangmustang boss 302mustang boss 302 lagunra secanissanporscheregalregal gstttt rsvolkswagenMon, 30 Jan 2012 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20159781/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/30/hagerty-predicts-this-years-future-classics/20159781/article-detail.xml 20159781 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-regal-gs-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-regal-gs-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Is this Fiat Abarth ad good enough for the Super Bowl?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/is-this-fiat-abarth-ad-good-enough-for-the-super-bowl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/is-this-fiat-abarth-ad-good-enough-for-the-super-bowl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/is-this-fiat-abarth-ad-good-enough-for-the-super-bowl/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Fiat USA put a video showcasing the 500 Abarth on the Internet last November that tested the bounds of what is doable on network TV. That's one of the big reasons it hasn't been put on TV yet.

You'll see what we mean when you view the ad, titled "Seduction," after the jump. It was the foam that made it iffy for the networks.

But we chatted with Chrysler marketing chief Olivier Francois at the Detroit Auto Show about Super Bowl commercials where advertisers are known to push the envelope. In the Chrysler-Fiat world of double titles, Francois is also CEO of Fiat.

Francois, who is considering a few options for the big game, is wondering if the Abarth video is Super Bowl worthy, and wants to know what Autoblog readers think about the spot. Good enough for the big game, also known as the Super Bowl of advertising?

Chrysler, of course, was the toast of the Super Bowl in 2011, showing an unprecedented two-minute ad featuring Eminem's "Lose Yourself," an appearance by Eminem himself and the new ad theme, "Imported From Detroit."

It's a high bar to reach again.

What do you think? Does this Abarth ad have the right stuff?

View Poll

Continue reading Is this Fiat Abarth ad good enough for the Super Bowl?

Is this Fiat Abarth ad good enough for the Super Bowl? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012500500 abarthfiatsuper bowlsuper bowl commercialsThu, 19 Jan 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20151595/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/19/is-this-fiat-abarth-ad-good-enough-for-the-super-bowl/20151595/article-detail.xml 20151595 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/abarth-ad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/abarth-ad.jpg <![CDATA[Marchionne admits 50,000-unit sales goal for Fiat 500 "incredibly naive"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/marchionne-admits-50-000-unit-sales-goal-for-fiat-500-incredibl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/marchionne-admits-50-000-unit-sales-goal-for-fiat-500-incredibl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/marchionne-admits-50-000-unit-sales-goal-for-fiat-500-incredibl/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Fiat 500C front three-quarter

When Fiat pronounced that it was planning to sell 50,000 Fiat 500 models in 2011, we were more than a little skeptical. And now that 2011 is in the rear view mirror, it seems CEO Sergio Marchionne is ready to admit that the sales target was not very realistic.

CNN Money reports that the charismatic Fiat/Chrysler boss is now calling the 50,000 number "incredibly naive," adding that the goal was to best Mini Cooper's 2010 sales total of 45,644. Fiat only managed to sell 19,769 Cinquecento models for the year.

Given that Mini has been in the U.S. for a decade and the marque already has an established dealer body and marketing presence - as well as an entire range of products - critics have said that clear that Fiat's 50,000-unit first-year goal was ambitious to a fault. Marchionne went on to add "we set ourselves up for a fall," but the chief executive insists that the future of Fiat in the U.S. is still very strong.

Even though sales of the 500 came nowhere near 50,000 units, Marchionne says that the Mexico plant that builds the A-segment ride is still profitable. That's because the plant also builds models for South America and China. Marchionne is reportedly hoping to sell between 25,000 and 30,000 copies of the 500 in the U.S. in 2012. While the 500 will likely be the only Fiat-branded model available in U.S. showrooms in 2012, the lineup is at least set to expand with models like the $22,000 high-performance 500 Abarth.

Marchionne admits 50,000-unit sales goal for Fiat 500 "incredibly naive" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500500 abarthchryslercinquecentofiatfiat 500fiat salesmarchionnesergio marchionneTue, 17 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20149282/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/17/marchionne-admits-50-000-unit-sales-goal-for-fiat-500-incredibl/20149282/article-detail.xml 20149282 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/fiat-500-c-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/fiat-500-c-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Fiat 500 Abarth priced from $22,000*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2012-fiat-500-abarth-priced-from-22-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2012-fiat-500-abarth-priced-from-22-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2012-fiat-500-abarth-priced-from-22-000/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Fiat has announced that the 2012 500 Abarth will be priced from $22,000, *not including destination charges. That's a healthy jump from the tiny Italian's $15,500 base MSRP and higher still than the open-air 500C that starts at $19,500. For all that extra lira, buyers get Fiat's turbocharged 1.4-liter MultiAir engine producing 160 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. Power is routed through a five-speed manual transmission and the super Cinquecento also receives an upgraded suspension and brakes, 16-inch wheels and dual exhaust system. The cost of admission also includes free tuition to the Abarth Driving Experience hosted by The Richard Petty Driving Experience.

The Fiat 500 Abarth can be difficult to place among its class competitors because it's the smallest kid on the block, but we've constructed a handy-dandy table to compare pricing, power and weight-to-power ratios for some likely adversaries. Despite being the smallest in size, the Abarth 500 actually ends up with the highest weight-to-power ratio. The upcoming Hyundai Veloster Turbo stands out as having the least amount for each horse to lug around, though without pricing information, the Abarth 500 presently stands as the least expensive in-road to the kingdom of hot hatches.

Price* HP/Torque Weight W/P Ratio
2012 Fiat 500 Abarth $22,000 160/170 2,533 15.8
2012 Volkswagen GTI $23,995 200/207 3,034 15.2
2012 Mini Cooper S $23,100 181/177 2,668 14.7
2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo N/A 201/194 2,800 13.9
*Does not include destination charges

Continue reading 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth priced from $22,000*

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth priced from $22,000* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 fiat 500 abarth500500 abarth500 abarth pricingabarthcinquecentofiatWed, 11 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146262/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/2012-fiat-500-abarth-priced-from-22-000/20146262/article-detail.xml 20146262 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/fiat500abarth-26-copy-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/fiat500abarth-26-copy-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat 500 Abarth visits Jay Leno's Garage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/fiat-500-abarth-visits-jay-lenos-garage/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/fiat-500-abarth-visits-jay-lenos-garage/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/fiat-500-abarth-visits-jay-lenos-garage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jay Lenos Garage

Joe Grace, Fiat Vehicle Line Executive, swung by Jay Leno's garage with the brand's new 500 Abarth for a little history lesson and a quick walk around. Here in the States, it's easy to forget that Karl Abarth, the man behind the Fiat tuning division, was as driven as they come when pushing the performance envelope. Abarth got his start racing motorcycles before turning his eye to four-wheeled prototypes and aftermarket performance, and his list of lifelong achievements is as lengthy as it is varied. Abarth was our kind of guy.

Grace took the time to show Leno exactly what makes the 500 Abarth so different from the comedian's own pint-sized hatchback, including its turbocharged, 1.4-liter four-cylinder good for 160 horsepower, along with its unique aesthetics and performance-oriented suspension and exhaust. Is the 500 Abarth cool? Sure. Is it as cool as Karl Abarth racing a steam locomotive with a sidecar motorcycle? We think not. Hit the jump to check the video for yourself.

Continue reading Fiat 500 Abarth visits Jay Leno's Garage

Fiat 500 Abarth visits Jay Leno's Garage originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500500 abarthabarthcinquecentofiatfiat 500 abarthjay lenojay lenos garagejoe gracekarl abarthlenovideoMon, 05 Dec 2011 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20121244/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/05/fiat-500-abarth-visits-jay-lenos-garage/20121244/article-detail.xml 20121244 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/jay-lenos-garage-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/jay-lenos-garage-628.jpg <![CDATA[Editors' Choice: Top Five 2011 LA Auto Show Debuts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/editors-choice-top-five-2011-la-auto-show-debuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/editors-choice-top-five-2011-la-auto-show-debuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/editors-choice-top-five-2011-la-auto-show-debuts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,



We're packing up our cameras and laptops and heading out of the Los Angeles Convention Center, but before we seal the lid on the 2011 LA Auto Show, it's time to reflect on our staff's favorite debuts of the past two days. Unlike previous shows, there was nothing here in LA that truly stood out as the clear Best In Show winner, but because of that, there were plenty of good arguments amongst the staff about the five best cars on display in Los Angeles.

We won't give away the winner just yet (you'll have to click past the break to see the results), but we'll say that the first and second place cars were nearly tied, with the Number One car only winning by one vote. But enough with this fluff - hit the jump to see Autoblog's picks for the five best debuts of the 2011 LA Auto Show.

Continue reading Editors' Choice: Top Five 2011 LA Auto Show Debuts

Editors' Choice: Top Five 2011 LA Auto Show Debuts originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 20:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show2012 fiat 500 abarth2012 mercedes-benz ml63 amg2013 cadillac xts2013 ford shelby gt500500 abarthbrzbrz concept sticadillacfiatfordgt500lala 2011la auto showmercedes-benzml63 amgshelby gt500subaruxtsThu, 17 Nov 2011 20:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20109279/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/17/editors-choice-top-five-2011-la-auto-show-debuts/20109279/article-detail.xml 20109279 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/lashow_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/lashow.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Fiat 500 Abarth brings the scorpion's sting to North America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2012-fiat-500-abarth-brings-the-scorpions-sting-to-north-americ/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2012-fiat-500-abarth-brings-the-scorpions-sting-to-north-americ/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2012-fiat-500-abarth-brings-the-scorpions-sting-to-north-americ/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth in Los Angeles

Excited as we were for the launch of the Fiat 500 in the United States, we've really just been waiting for this: the 500 Abarth. You see, Fiat's scorpion-branded tuning house has laid its hands on a host of models over in Europe, and now that we're finally seeing the performance fruits of the Chrysler-Fiat merger.

Under the hood is a turbocharged, intercooled version of Fiat's 1.4-liter MultiAir engine, good for 160 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. Not bad, considering the fact that the standard 500 - which is only 170 pounds lighter - is down on power by 59 horses and 72 torques. Of course, Abarth has tuned other important bits like the suspension, wheels and brakes and the tuning company has spruced up the 500's visuals inside and interior a bit, too.

Not surprisingly, we're eager to get behind the wheel of Abarth's hot hatch. And we're already scoping out a Mini Cooper S for a lovely little comparison.

Continue reading 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth brings the scorpion's sting to North America

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth brings the scorpion's sting to North America originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show2012 fiat 500 abarth500500 abarthabarthcinquecentofiatlala 2011la auto showThu, 17 Nov 2011 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20108335/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/17/2012-fiat-500-abarth-brings-the-scorpions-sting-to-north-americ/20108335/article-detail.xml 20108335 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/fiat-500-arbath-la_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/fiat-500-arbath-la.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat 500 Abarth ditches JLo for Italian sex appeal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/fiat-500-abarth-ditches-jlo-for-italian-sex-appeal/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/fiat-500-abarth-ditches-jlo-for-italian-sex-appeal/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/fiat-500-abarth-ditches-jlo-for-italian-sex-appeal/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fiat 500 Abarth commercial

Jennifer Lopez may be all well and fine for plugging the regular Fiat 500, but for the new Abarth version, Fiat's going to need something a little... racier. So for the latest spot advertising the arrival of the Scorpion-fettled Cinquecento, Fiat USA (also known as the import-flavored Chrysler division) took a decidedly different approach.

We have no idea what the heart-stoppingly gorgeous Italian model in the new commercial is saying, but then we don't really care. All we know is we'll never look at this hatchback quite the same. Follow the jump to watch the clip - just be forewarned that it may not be perfectly safe for work.

Continue reading Fiat 500 Abarth ditches JLo for Italian sex appeal

Fiat 500 Abarth ditches JLo for Italian sex appeal originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500 abarth500500 abarthabarthcatrinel menghiacinquecentofiatfiat 500fiat 500 abarthfiat adfiat commercialvideoThu, 17 Nov 2011 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20108766/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/17/fiat-500-abarth-ditches-jlo-for-italian-sex-appeal/20108766/article-detail.xml 20108766 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/abarth-ad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/abarth-ad.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Fiat 500 Abarth brings accessible Italian performance to American shores]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/16/2012-fiat-500-abarth-brings-accessible-italian-performance-to-am/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/16/2012-fiat-500-abarth-brings-accessible-italian-performance-to-am/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/16/2012-fiat-500-abarth-brings-accessible-italian-performance-to-am/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth

Just as it has for years with the European-market Fiat 500, Abarth has gotten its hands on the version made in Toluca, Mexico for the North American market, taking what is rapidly emerging as a popular choice for style-conscious American drivers and turning it into a proper pocket rocket. Being introduced today at the LA Auto Show, the US-market Fiat 500 Abarth is about as jam-packed with performance goodies as they come.

The standard Fiat 500 has been turbocharged and intercooled up to 160 horsepower.

For starters, the naturally-aspirated 1.4-liter MultiAir engine in the standard Fiat 500 has been turbocharged and intercooled up to 160 horsepower - quite a punch for such a little car to pack. But the Abarth approach would never stop at just an engine mod: the turbo Cinquecento has also been treated to an upgraded suspension, rolling stock, aero package and brake kit.

Sixteen-inch alloys (or optional 17s, also available painted in black or white) ride on Pirelli rubber and let the red brake calipers peek through. Dual exhaust tips protrude out the back, while racing stripes in white, black or red give it a track-ready look. The electronic nannies are also fully defeatable.

And Abarth didn't overlook the cabin, either There's a thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed, perforated-leather steering wheel; a pair of heavily bolstered racing buckets; a performance-oriented instrument cluster with turbo boost gauge and shift light; and TomTom sat-nav with Blue&Me connectivity.

Like what you've read so far? There's plenty more to digest in the extensive press release after the jump and the super-sized gallery of high-resolution images. Stop crossing off the days on your "Performance Cars of Italy" calendar and check 'em out for yourself, and watch this space for live images from the LA show floor.

Continue reading 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth brings accessible Italian performance to American shores

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth brings accessible Italian performance to American shores originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show2012 fiat 500 abarth500500 abarthabarthfiatfiat 500fiat 500 abarthfiat abarthlala auto showlos angeles auto showWed, 16 Nov 2011 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20105123/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/16/2012-fiat-500-abarth-brings-accessible-italian-performance-to-am/20105123/article-detail.xml 20105123 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/fiat500abarth-31webopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/fiat500abarth-31webopt.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat confirms 500 Abarth to make U.S. debut in Los Angeles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/fiat-confirms-500-abarth-to-make-u-s-debut-in-los-angeles/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/fiat-confirms-500-abarth-to-make-u-s-debut-in-los-angeles/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/fiat-confirms-500-abarth-to-make-u-s-debut-in-los-angeles/#commentsFiled under: , ,

fiat 500 abarth

Social media allows for news to travel fast. Case in point, Fiat just sent out word via its official Twitter account minutes ago confirming that its U.S. spec 500 Abarth performance model will debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

We recently had the chance to drive the European version, but this news allows us to commence being impatient for the day we can drive the 'murican trim - especially since we hear it will feature a more powerful 1.4-liter turbo with Multiair technology than the model currently filling up Mini Cooper mirrors in the EU. We hear it should produce around 175 horsepower - a handsome number for such a small, lightweight hatchback.

Fiat confirms 500 Abarth to make U.S. debut in Los Angeles originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show500500 abarthabarthfiatfiat 500fiat 500 abarthla auto showlos angeles auto showMon, 25 Jul 2011 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19999914/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/25/fiat-confirms-500-abarth-to-make-u-s-debut-in-los-angeles/19999914/article-detail.xml 19999914 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2012-fiat-500-abarth-qs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2012-fiat-500-abarth-qs.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Fiat 500 Abarth [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/11/2012-fiat-500-abarth-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/11/2012-fiat-500-abarth-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/11/2012-fiat-500-abarth-quick-spin-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Not Exactly Like America's Abarth - Ours Will Be Better


2012 Fiat 500 Abarth - Click above for high-res image gallery

Covering the automotive business is rife with surprises. Case in point: On a recent trip to the stunning Algarve region of Portugal to test Continental Tire's new ContiEcoContact 5 (verdict: they're very good), we had the chance to sample a bit of forbidden fruit.

In the process of learning about the German company's doughnut-making capabilities (which included a journeyman's seminar on velocity-excited short- and long-chain polymers, the CEC5's three-percent fuel economy bump and improved wet-braking capabilities), one test car fitted with Continental's new rubber was a EU-spec 2011 Fiat 500 Abarth.

Knowing that the factory-fettled 500 is headed our way in two year's time, we snagged the keys to see if Italy's hottest hatch was ready to bring the pain to the John Cooper Works-infused offerings from Mini. Continue reading...

Continue reading 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth [w/video]

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 May 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 fiat 500 abarth500500 abarthabarthcinquecentocontiecocontact 5continental tirefeaturedfiatportimaoquick spinquickspinWed, 11 May 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19934575/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/11/2012-fiat-500-abarth-quick-spin-review/19934575/article-detail.xml 19934575 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2012-fiat-500-abarth-qs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2012-fiat-500-abarth-qs.jpg <![CDATA[Awesome mid-engine, RWD Abarth 500 Motore Centrale revealed at Top Marques [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/awesome-mid-engine-rwd-abarth-500-motore-centrale-revealed-at-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/awesome-mid-engine-rwd-abarth-500-motore-centrale-revealed-at-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/awesome-mid-engine-rwd-abarth-500-motore-centrale-revealed-at-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Lucarelli Monza 500 Motore Centrale R230
Lucarelli Monza 500 Motore Centrale R230 - Click above for image gallery

There's a grand tradition to mid-engined hatchbacks that blend exotic layout with utilitarian bodystyle, and as promised, that tradition has now embodied itself in the Fiat 500.

Developed by Lucarelli Monza - a new tuning house eager to make its mark - the Abarth 500 Motore Centrale is a substantial re-engineering of the Italian retro hatch. The engine has been moved - apparently to a glass display case - in the rear, and extensively modified in the process. With a new turbocharger and intercooler, new catalytic converter and pistons, the 1.4-liter turbo four now drives 230 metric horsepower to the rear wheels, aided by an electronic limited-slip differential.

While the front MacPherson struts have been left intact, a new wishbone suspension has been crafted for the rear, joined by upgraded brakes with four-pot calipers all around and some revised bodywork with ducting fitted to help keep the engine cool in its new orientation. Aznom, meanwhile, has been brought on board strictly to outfit the interior with Poltrona Frau leather and Alcantara.

The road-going R230 is quoted for a 4.7-second sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) and a 240 km/h (150 mph) top end. An R280 Pista version is also available with an extra 50 horses and 220 fewer pounds, plus a mechanical diff, full roll cage, adjustable suspension and data recorder, dropping its sprint down to 3.9 seconds and raising its top end up to 260 km/h (160 mph). No word on pricing, but you can bet that getting a budget hatchback to reach those kinds of numbers isn't a cheap proposition.

Have a closer look in the gallery below, and follow the jump to see and hear the pocket rocket zipping around the streets of Monte Carlo thanks to Marco at Marchettino. Thanks to all for the tips!


Gallery: Lucarelli Monza 500 Motore Centrale R230


[Source: MotoreCentrale.com via Italiaspeed]

Continue reading Awesome mid-engine, RWD Abarth 500 Motore Centrale revealed at Top Marques [w/video]

Awesome mid-engine, RWD Abarth 500 Motore Centrale revealed at Top Marques [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500 abarthabarth 500aznomfiatfiat 500lucarellilucarelli monzamid-enginemotore centraler230r280r280 pistatop marquestop marques monacoThu, 21 Apr 2011 17:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19918600/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/21/awesome-mid-engine-rwd-abarth-500-motore-centrale-revealed-at-t/19918600/article-detail.xml 19918600 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/web630-01-aznom-500-motore-centrale_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/web630-01-aznom-500-motore-centrale.jpg <![CDATA[Confirmed: Fiat 500 Abarth coming to U.S., all-electric 500 BEV to launch first]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/18/fiat-500-abarth-coming-to-u-s-all-electric-500-bev/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/18/fiat-500-abarth-coming-to-u-s-all-electric-500-bev/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/18/fiat-500-abarth-coming-to-u-s-all-electric-500-bev/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Fiat 500 Abarth
The Fiat 500 Abarth prefers to run on two wheels - Click above to watch video after the jump

The other day we told you to bone up on your Italian because the Fiat 500 configurator came online. Now you should seriously start saving your Lira because the high-performance 500 Abarth model has been confirmed for the U.S. market. No date has been confirmed, but we've been told that the launch of all 500 models will be staggered and the Abarth is last in the queue.

Those other variations include the standard 500 that you can start ordering now, the 500C drop-top and a 500 that runs on all-electric battery power. Still, the one we're breaking out the driving gloves for is the Fiat 500 Abarth... and rumor has it that we might see the tiny terror running Stateside within the next three years because the 500 BEV hits the market in 2012.

Check out the video after the jump to see why i nostri cuori battono così velocemente.

Gallery: Fiat 500 Abarth Opening Edition

Continue reading Confirmed: Fiat 500 Abarth coming to U.S., all-electric 500 BEV to launch first

Confirmed: Fiat 500 Abarth coming to U.S., all-electric 500 BEV to launch first originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Nov 2010 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500500 abarth500 bev500Cabarthelectric fiat 500fiatfiat 500fiat 500 abarthfiat 500 bevThu, 18 Nov 2010 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19724655/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/18/fiat-500-abarth-coming-to-u-s-all-electric-500-bev/19724655/article-detail.xml 19724655 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/07/abarth-opening-01_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/07/abarth-opening-01.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: 2011 Fiat 500C Abarth EsseEsse packs quite a punch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-fiat-500c-abarth-esseesse-packs-quite-a-punch/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-fiat-500c-abarth-esseesse-packs-quite-a-punch/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-fiat-500c-abarth-esseesse-packs-quite-a-punch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Arbath 500C esseesse
2011 Fiat 500 Abarth EsseEsse - Click above for high-res image gallery

At this year's Geneva Motor Show, Abarth-tuned versions of the Fiat 500C and Punto Evo debuted, adding some cajones to the cute-as-a-bug Fiat 500C and the no-less-lovable Punto. Now, at the Paris Motor Show, the mark of the Scorpion brought us even hotter versions of both, and our reaction was that the difference between 500C, Abarth 500C and Abarth 500C EsseEsse is much more than just shades of gray.

Wearing a gray-on-gray paint job and carrying the EsseEsse postscript - Italian for "SS" - the Abarth 500C gets a substantial boost in output and a variety of upgrades to match. In the case of the 500C, it picks up 22 tiny ponies under its curved bonnet to bring the total to 160 horsepower. That's good for a 7.6-second sprint to 62 miles per hour. Perhaps not record-breaking, but just look at it; cute as a button and pretty darn quick.

The EsseEsse also features an array of upgrades to the suspension, brakes, rolling stock and more, plus Blue&Me connectivity and Record Monza exhaust. Full details can be found in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Arbath 500C esseesse

Paris 2010: Arbath 500C esseesseParis 2010: Arbath 500C esseesseParis 2010: Arbath 500C esseesseParis 2010: Arbath 500C esseesseParis 2010: Arbath 500C esseesse

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: 2011 Fiat 500C Abarth EsseEsse packs quite a punch

Paris 2010: 2011 Fiat 500C Abarth EsseEsse packs quite a punch originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris auto show2010 paris motor show500 abarth500 abarth esseesseabarthfiatfiat 500fiat 500 abarthfiat 500 abarth esseesseparisparis motor showFri, 01 Oct 2010 16:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656880/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-fiat-500c-abarth-esseesse-packs-quite-a-punch/19656880/article-detail.xml 19656880 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadarbathesseesse500cparis_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadarbathesseesse500cparis.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Fiat 500 Abarth Speedster in the works]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/19/report-fiat-500-abarth-speedster-in-the-works/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/19/report-fiat-500-abarth-speedster-in-the-works/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/19/report-fiat-500-abarth-speedster-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fiat 500 Abarth Essesse - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've been hearing about the supposed introduction of the Fiat 500 to American shores for so long that the car may grow stale before the first one touches soil on our side of the Atlantic. Chrysler and its parent company, Fiat, seem to have grown keen to that very possibility, so to stir the pot somewhat, the two have gotten together and released a few scant details about a performance version that's also headed our direction.

As we've already heard, the 500 Abarth will pack around 134 horsepower from a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a 0-60 run of around 7.6 seconds. If you're thinking that those numbers aren't exactly devilish, fear not - the Abarth-tuned cars will also pack reworked suspensions to help them carve up tarmac like a turkey dinner.

That's cool and all, but the biggest news is that Fiat is actually mulling an Abarth Speedster - a unique new model that is rumored to borrow heavily from the 1959 Zagato Abarth 750. Expect a shorter roofline as well as a folding soft top if the car comes to fruition. No one knows exactly which engine Fiat would snug down into the little topless wonder, but rumor has it that a 163-horsepower version of the same 1.4-liter four-pot is a definite possibility. Sounds good to us.


Gallery: Fiat 500 Abarth Esseesse


[Source: Inside Line]

Report: Fiat 500 Abarth Speedster in the works originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500 Abarth500 Abarth Speedster500Abarth500AbarthSpeedsterAbarthAbarth SpeedsterAbarthSpeedsterFiat 500Fiat 500 AbarthFiat 500 Abarth SpeedsterFiat500Fiat500AbarthFiat500AbarthSpeedsterMon, 19 Jul 2010 17:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19560067/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/19/report-fiat-500-abarth-speedster-in-the-works/19560067/article-detail.xml 19560067 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/fiat-500-abarth-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/fiat-500-abarth-630.jpg -1 2