Fiat Crystler Automotive India launched the much awaited Abarth 595 Competizione in India at the Buddh International Circuit, Greater Noida.
Priced at Rs 29.85 lakhs (Ex-Showroom Delhi), this small yet powerful 3-door hatchback will definitely create some waves on Indian roads.
We took the car out for a spin at the circuit and here are our first impressions.
65 years after its origins based on Carlo Abarth’s vision to take modest everyday cars and achieve levels of performance that simply defied belief through the application of design and engineering, the car’s excellence is more alive than ever.
Abarth has an astonishing legacy of 10 world records, 133 international records and over 10,000 track victories. And that is what makes the Fiat Abarth 595 so special.
The 595 Competizione is a 3-door hatchback powered with a 1.4 L T-Jet engine producing 160 PS of power, taking the car from 0-100 in just 7.6 seconds.
The maximum torque generated is 230 Nm@2750 – 3000 RPM with the top speed estimated to be around 210 kmph. We reached a modest 180 kmph at the Buddh International Circuit on the straight.
The 595 Competizione features large 17 inch alloy wheels to ensure it remains gripped to the road and cuts corners with ease.
The exterior design is inspired by the Fiat 500 Cinquecento. This forward wheel drive car is also loaded with perforated and ventilated brake discs.
Additionally, on the features list, the Abarth 595 Competizione is provided with a world class infotainment system, Xenon headlamps, rear parking sensors and Monza exhaust systems taking the overall excitement to another level altogether.
We are extremely pleased to introduce the iconic Italian brand - Abarth from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ stable to our customers in India. The flagship model Abarth 595 Competizione, a sports performance coupe, is renowned world over for its sheer performance, iconic style and rich heritage. With this launch, we are hoping to bring this same legacy to our Indian customers and are confident that Abarth would provide a superior driving experience.
– Kevin Flynn, President and Managing Director, FCA India Automobiles Pvt. Ltd.
At the first sight the Abarth 595 looks harmless but has the ability to scare you if you put the pedal to the metal.
It has some nicely tucked-in features like an Electric Sunroof, a TFT instrument cluster, a Blue & Me handsfree system with USB port.
But what’s impressive here is the TTC (Torque Transfer Control) on the car, it’s like an electronic stability program on a car but not even close.
It helps distribute the torque on the wheels so uniformly that the car can handle 140 kmph turns with ease. Not that we are suggesting that you do a few.
For a performance hot hatchback like the Abarth 595, the corners of the Buddh International Circuit were not at all stressful.
The car feels safe, sporty and has all the racing pedigree that one needs in a sports hatchback.
But, you really need to dig deep in your pocket to find some change of Rs 29,85,000 (Ex-Showroom Delhi) to own one in India.
And, if you don’t have that kind of money, then wait for this one to launch on Diwali 2015.
Fiat Punto Abarth
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