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Fiat launches the Abarth 595 Competizione in India at INR 29.85 lacs

New Delhi, 04 August 2015: A bit of retro Italian flair is about to hit Indian streets with the launch of the iconic FIAT Abarth 595 Competizione – the flagship model from the Abarth stable that has an inherent sporty character and racing in its soul.
Kevin Flynn, MD and President, FCA India at BIC with the newly launched Abarth 595 Competizione

A combination of heritage, craftsmanship and iconic vintage styling, the Abarth 595 Competizione was launched by Fiat Chrysler today at the Buddh International Circuit. This 3 door sports coupe is powered by FIAT’s 1.4 ltr. T-Jet engine and tuned to produce 160 PS of power and 230 Nm of torque at 2750-3000 RPM. It will initially make its way into India through the CBU route and be available at select dealerships across New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Bengaluru at an ex-showroom price of INR 29.85* lacs.

At the launch, the company also showcased the Punto Abarth, which would be a locally made performance hot hatch with a 1.4 litre four-cylinder turbocharged T-Jet engine.

The Abarth 595 Competizione is a furiously fast front wheel driving machine, with a low ground clearance offering good traction and control for maneuvering at high speeds. The large 17″ alloys give it a firm grip and cut corners with ease. The vehicle does 0-100 in just 7.6 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h. The exterior retains the iconic Abarth styling with design inspiration from the Fiat 500 Cinquecento. The interiors offer a mix of the retro and the modern – with hand stitched leather seats and a small and sporty leather wrapped steering wheel with multifunction buttons. There is an AMT transmission with paddle shifts mounted on the steering wheel and two driving modes; normal and sport. The Abarth 595 Competizione has an electric sunroof, a top of the line infotainment system, Xenon headlamps, rear parking sensors and Monza exhaust systems.

While the Abarth takes the MINI head on, it remains to be seen if there would be many takers for this category, which is purely about style over substance. Undoubtedly, the Abarth is a thrill inducing sure shot head turner on the streets that gives a go kart like on-road driving experience. While it may appeal to auto aficionados, the category is certainly logic defying as an investment. Moreover with FIAT having its own challenges in India and not quite on top of its game, it is unlikely that the Abarth would be a game changer for them. It would be nothing short of a miracle if they could make a success of it. Else, this too would go the Fiat 500 way.

*ex showroom New Delhi

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