In a world where most compact cars focus on practicality and fuel efficiency, the 2019 Fiat 500 Abarth dares to be different. It’s not just a small car—it’s a statement. This car is made for drivers who want more than just a ride from point A to point B.
Quick Overview
The Abarth name carries a legacy of Italian motorsport heritage, and that spirit is very much alive in this model. At its core, the 500 Abarth is built for fun. It’s equipped with a 1.4-liter turbocharged MultiAir engine, capable of delivering up to 160 horsepower with the manual transmission. With a curb weight under 2,600 pounds, it’s quick off the line and eager in the corners. A sport-tuned suspension and a throaty exhaust system round out its performance credentials.
This car is best suited for urban drivers, enthusiasts, and anyone who values personality over practicality. It's not a typical economy hatchback—it's designed to excite, and it makes a strong impression whether parked at the curb or roaring down a winding road.
Performance and Driving Experience
The 2019 Fiat 500 Abarth may be small in size, but it packs a punch where it counts. What really sets the Abarth apart is how it feels on the road. The engine delivers a strong surge of power in the midrange, especially between 2,500 and 4,000 rpm, making it responsive and eager to move.
Perhaps the most iconic part of the Abarth experience is its exhaust note. Unlike most subcompacts, the 500 Abarth comes with a dual-tip performance exhaust system that delivers a growling, raspy sound that’s instantly recognizable. It pops and crackles during downshifts, adding to the visceral feel and giving the impression you're driving something much more aggressive.
However, it can feel a bit harsh on rough pavement, which is something to consider if comfort is a top priority. Braking performance is also enhanced over the standard Fiat 500, with upgraded performance disc brakes offering solid stopping power. The steering is quick and precise, though some may find it lacks feedback compared to larger, rear-wheel-drive performance cars.
Read Also : 2019 Fiat 500
Exterior Design
One look at the 2019 Fiat 500 Abarth, and it’s clear this isn’t your average city car. Fiat took the already distinctive and retro-inspired shape of the standard 500 and gave it a full-on performance makeover.
The Abarth scorpion badge proudly sits on the grille—a nod to the brand’s racing heritage and a clear signal that this Fiat is all about performance. The 500 Abarth rides on 16-inch aluminum wheels as standard, with 17-inch forged wheels available for those who want an even bolder stance.
The rear bumper is also reshaped to accommodate the aggressive exhaust setup, further separating the Abarth from its more pedestrian siblings. Buyers can choose from a range of vibrant exterior colors, including Rosso (red), Bianco (white), Nero (black), and Giallo Moderna Perla (yellow), among others. Many models also offer optional racing stripes, mirror cap accents, and scorpion decals to emphasize the car’s motorsport-inspired personality.
Interior Features
Step inside the 2019 Fiat 500 Abarth, and you're immediately greeted by a cabin that reflects its sporty attitude while maintaining the charm of a classic European city car. The flat-bottomed steering wheel—also Abarth-specific—is wrapped in leather with thumb grips and red stitching, giving it a motorsport-inspired feel.
While not the largest screen in the segment, it’s intuitive and includes Bluetooth connectivity, voice command, and USB inputs. Navigation is optional, as is the premium BeatsAudio sound system, which delivers clear and powerful audio to complement the car’s vibrant personality.
While the interior materials lean more toward durable plastics than luxury finishes, the design is cohesive, stylish, and built with character in mind. Storage space in the cabin is limited, with a small glove compartment and modest center console bin. However, the rear hatch opens to reveal 9.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to over 26 cubic feet with the rear seats folded—decent for a car this size.
Practicality and Daily Use
While the 2019 Fiat 500 Abarth is primarily designed for fun, it still offers a reasonable level of practicality for daily driving—especially for those living in urban environments. With a total length of just over 11.5 feet, it's one of the easiest cars to park in virtually any situation.
The rear seats are cramped, with limited legroom and headroom, making them best suited for children or short-distance passengers. Most drivers will view the Abarth as a two-seater with emergency rear seating rather than a true four-person vehicle.
Ride quality is another consideration. Fuel economy is respectable for a turbocharged performance car. Still, it lacks some of the advanced safety tech found in newer vehicles, such as lane-keeping assist or adaptive cruise control.
Pros and Cons
Like any car, the 2019 Fiat 500 Abarth has its strengths and trade-offs. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your lifestyle and driving preferences.
Pros
Energetic Performance:
Paired with a lightweight body and a sport-tuned suspension, the Abarth feels quick and agile, perfect for both city traffic and twisty backroads.
Compact and Easy to Park:
Its small footprint makes the Abarth incredibly maneuverable and ideal for tight urban environments. Finding a parking spot is rarely an issue, and parallel parking becomes a breeze.
Cons
Cramped Rear Seats:
Rear passenger space is extremely limited. Adults will find the back seats uncomfortable for anything beyond short trips, making the Abarth more of a two-seater in practice.
Stiff Ride Quality:
The sport suspension that enhances handling also leads to a firm and sometimes jarring ride, especially on rough or uneven roads. Comfort is not its strong suit.
Limited Cargo Space:
Though the hatchback design adds some flexibility, the Abarth still offers less storage than many other subcompact cars. You'll need to pack light if you're planning a trip with more than one passenger.
Aging Technology and Interior Materials:
Some interior materials also feel dated or plasticky compared to newer competitors.
Minimal Advanced Safety Features:
The 2019 model lacks advanced driver assistance technologies like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, or blind-spot monitoring. It covers the basics but doesn’t offer much in terms of high-tech safety.
