Revived in 2007 after a 32-year hiatus, the modern Fiat 500 soldiered on almost unchanged up until now. A facelift operated in 2016 added a new grille, reshaped headlamps, and LED technology, but it's far from being a full-fledged redesign. The performance-oriented Abarth model also received a similar update and as a result Fiat returned to producing special-edition models for the auto shows around the world. One of them is the 595 Pista and was unveiled ahead of the 2017 Geneva Motor Show.

Named Pista, which is Italian for race track, the special edition makes clear reference to the racing vocation of the Abarth 500 and stands out by means of bespoke features inside and out, as well as the one-of-a-kind Abarth Telemetry system. The Pista version completes the new 595 Abarth line-up, which includes two body styles (hatchback and convertible), three trim levels (595, 595 Turismo and 595 Competizione), and as many drivetrain output and tuning levels.

Pricing and availability information is not yet known, but the 595 Pista will likely go on sale in most European markets. It might not come to the U.S. though, but Fiat will launch other special-edition models here.

Continue reading to learn more about the Abarth 595 Pista.

2017 Abarth 595 Pista

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2017 Abarth 595 Pista
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

What makes the Abarth 595 Pista special

Despite being so tiny, the Abarth-tuned Fiat 500 is one mean-looking machine. The 595 is even more aggressive and the Pista package makes things that much better. Like any special-edition model that's been thoroughly developed, it comes with many unique features, starting with a set of sporty wheels. The new alloys measure 17 inches and are finished in matt black. This color has become a cliche among sporty cars, but it works well with five exterior colors available for the compact. Choices include Campovolo Grey, Gara White, Abarth Red, Record Grey, and Scorpione Black.

Abarth also offers the possibility of choosing the color of the front and rear bumper insert, the mirror caps, and the brake calipers, available in either black, red, or yellow. This provides access to many exciting combinations, as well as add a splash of color to somewhat dull paints like white, grey, and black. The standard fitted foglamps and the quad-exhaust layout also help with the aggressive look, while the titanium-finished door handles and the "595 Pista" badges make it stand out even more.

On top of these, Abarth offers options like the aerial concealed under the 595 aluminium cap on the roof, Xenon headlamps, tinted rear windows, and the "Sky Dome" electric glass sunroof on the coupe version.

Inside, the 595 Pista is pretty much a regular Abarth, but this is nothing to sneeze at. The model comes with height-adjustable sports seats wrapped in either fabric or leather (optional), a seven-inch TFT color display in the instrument cluster, matt grey dashboard fascia, manual climate control system and sporty leather steering wheel. Optionally, customers can add automatic climate control and an electrochromic rear-view mirror.

The upgraded UConnect infotainment system uses a seven-inch touchscreen and includes DAB, six speakers, Bluetooth with audio streaming, USB/AUX ports, and Live services. Additionally, the UConnect HD LIVE system enables access to apps through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

By far the most interesting new feature in the 595 Pista's infotainment system is the ability to load some of the most famous racing circuits in the world, like Monza, Spa-Francorchamps or the Red Bull Ring and viewing detailed maps and receiving real-time tips to improve lap times during track days. Through this telemetry-like app, drivers can also access their recorded sessions and analyse their performance at any time. What's more, the Routes function can be used to create customized courses and record GPS traces for each course.

Under the hood, the 595 Pista is a standard Abarth 500, using the same turbocharged, 1.4-liter, T-Jet four-cylinder rated at 160 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of twist. The five-speed manual transmission is standard, while the sequential gearbox with shift paddles is optional. Performance specs remain unaltered, so the 0-to-62 mph sprint takes 7.3 seconds, while top speed is limited at 216 km/h (134 mph). Extras in this department include a Koni rear suspension with FSD technology, perforated and ventilated brake discs, and a high-performance Abarth Record Monza exhaust with dual mode.

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Read our full review on the Abarth 595 here.