Is The All-New Fiat 500 A BADASS Now That The ABARTH Is On Its Way?

If you were to show the Fiat 500 to a focus group, it's likely that if you were to ask...

"What do you think of the all-new Fiat 500's styling?"

...a good portion of folks would reply "It's cute."

It's hard to disagree as it has tiny proportions and boasts its chic, Italian design. It's more of an accessory than a vehicle.

Now that's about to change as we see that the Abarth is on its way to the States. The Abarth is meant to be more of a performer rather than an accessory, that's for sure.

Just ask the driver down below that's chasing a last generation, modified Subaru WRX STI around the track. Considering the Abarth is down on power compared to the STI, it certainly holds its own in the corners.

With that said, would YOU consider it a badass car now that the Abarth is on its way?

2011 Los Angeles Auto Show Photo Gallery

While driving at Franciacorta racetrack i played with a modified Subaru Impreza WRX Sti. I was also very surprised to keep up with such a fast car with my modified Abarth. So, both cars have more hp than the stock version but here you can clearly see the difference between the drivers. Unfortunately my GoPro HD stopped to record the action for no reason!

quizz - 11/29/2011 7:23:57 AM

+1 Boost

J.Lo has ruined the appeal of the 500. Painting it black does not neutralize the J.Lo effect

ChiAutoGuy - 11/29/2011 7:58:32 AM

+2 Boost

I like it! I had a 131 Arbath when I was quite a bit younger and it was quite the fun machine....

irishmike - 11/29/2011 7:59:03 AM

0 Boost

Fiat still has a chance. I wonder how the consumer satisfaction is on the 500's sold so far.
It will take a lot to overcome the sins of many years ago. They are catering to a new generation, but the reputation lives.
Also, they should have had the Abarth available when they re-entered the U.S. market, as BMW had the 'S' version of the Cooper immediately.
When I viewed the Fiat display at the NY auto show, it seemed they had only more heavily optioned (high priced) examples there--kind of a turn-off to buyers.

mini22 - 11/29/2011 3:52:05 PM

+1 Boost

Fiat can turn sales around. The Abarth should help if it offers decent performance and handling as well as a competative sticker price.I also think the base 500 needs to be rethought in terms of models and options.Not everyone will buy an Abarth.Fiat should do some minor tweeking of the horspower and suspension on the base car. Further they should do away with the Lounge model and possibly the Pop as well. Rather they should offer the 500 with available options. The marketing has to be led by the Abarth but it should trickle down to the Sport as well.My point is this. The 500 cannot compete with other A class cars on interior size and packaging(except Mini). Also while it's fuel economy is good it's still not the best at this time.So the question is what is Fiat bringing to the table? There are really only two options to promote. It's Italian stiling and it's fun to drive character. Proper marketing will separate out the 500 from the other A class econoboxes. The question is can this new head of Fiat USA do this?