Thinking of getting an Abarth 595?
The style of the car
The 595 is a small three-door hatchback that’s also available as a stylish convertible. It has a high quality finish, eye-catching paintwork and alloy wheels so it looks and feels like a more expensive premium model. Competitzione versions get larger wheels and distinctive body decals.
Check out why the Abarth 595 is one of our favourite cars with a high driving position.
How it drives
With sporty handling and strong grip, the Abarth is huge fun to drive. The turbocharged engines provide quick acceleration and the special exhaust system sounds great. Small dimensions, light controls and good visibility mean it’s great to drive around town and easy to park. The suspension is designed to make the car feel sporty, so it doesn’t absorb bumps as well as a normal hatchback - some people might find it a bit uncomfortable.
The interior
The Abarth is a compact three door hatchback, but it’s surprisingly roomy inside. Space in the back is fine for children, while adults will be comfortable on shorter journeys. The boot features a wide-opening hatchback and inside there’s space for a small suitcase and a couple of squashy bags. A body coloured strip that runs the full width of the dashboard adds colour, while the use of quality materials creates a premium feel. Standard 595 models get air con and Bluetooth connectivity, while Turismo adds leather trim and touchscreen infotainment. Competizione versions add racy bucket seats and the Essessse gets mechanical enhancements including stiffer suspension, which gives the 595 a race car feel.
Running costs and reliability
Attractive pricing and generous standard equipment make the Abarth a great value used choice. The powerful engines are surprisingly cost-effective to run, with excellent fuel economy and low annual tax bills. The 595 is based on the Fiat 500, which performed well in the Auto Express Driver Power satisfaction survey. Servicing and insurance costs are low for such a high performance car. The Abarth is a safe choice with multiple airbags and electronic driver aids, including stability control that prevents skidding in slippery conditions.
How it compares with similar cars
The 595 costs less than the identically sized, more powerful Abarth 695. It’s more fun to drive than the popular Fiat 500, which it’s based on, and delivers better value for money than the MINI Cooper S.
