Fiat 124 Spider

Ensnared: Fiat 124 Spider Abarth

April 27, 2018 by admin 4 Comments

The 124 Spider in Abarth guise.

2018 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth — Smile! You’re going to love getting behind the wheel of this Abarth.

Small car manufacturer Fiat is struggling in a market where consumers want their big vehicles. Since its return to the US in 2011, sales peaked in 2014, but have fallen steadily through the ensuing years.

Some consumers, though, would do well to reconsider smaller and lighter vehicles going forward as gas prices have reached levels we haven’t seen in years. For those that have not explored the Fiat range in as many years, a fun little model joined the lineup in 2017.

That model is none other than the Fiat 124 Spider, a roadster supplied courtesy of Mazda. Indeed, the Mazda MX-5 Miata serves as the foundation for this sporty Fiat, a vehicle offering its own take on the roadster segment.

2018 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth

2018 Fiat 124 Spider Models

Fiat offers the rear-wheel drive 124 Spider in Classica ($24,995), Lusso ($27,495) and Abarth ($28,195) trims. All three come with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.

After a 32-year absence, Fiat reintroduced the 124 Spider in 2017. Light package changes accompany the 2018 edition, which otherwise is a carryover.

As for Fiat’s relationship to the Mazda, both vehicles are built at Mazda’s manufacturing plant in Hiroshima, Japan. The Fiat takes the Mazda’s superb handling and comfortable ride and adds Italian flair and turbo power. This doesn’t mean the Fiat is better than the Mazda — it just establishes its own take on the tapestry.

For the record, I like both models. Very much so. You can call it a day and quit your reading right now or press on to find out a few more details about this Fiat variant.

2018 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth

Exterior Overview

The Fiat’s canvas is small, crisp and sporty. The rounded headlamps and squared tail lamps hearken to the original model. The front fascia couldn’t be more different than the Mazda. Whereas the Miata has a pretty Japanese girl’s face, the Fiat has a tougher image, not unlike some of Europe’s finest sports cars. I’m sure I’ve offended someone by the Miata descriptor — no offense intended.

The Abarth model, the very one tested, expands on the handsome theme by adding several touches unique to it. It starts with its body-colored front fascia and includes gunmetal-colored side mirror caps and roll bar cover. Gun-metallic 17-inch aluminum wheels, Brembo brakes with red covers and bright quad exhaust tips complete the look.

Otherwise, all models come with projector headlamps, power side mirrors, a soft-top convertible roof and various aluminum wheel choices. Optional equipment includes fog lamps, LED automatic leveling headlamps, headlamp washers, heated side mirrors and an available red-top roof.

Speaking of the roof, it is easy to drop down and pick up. You’ll do this with the car idle — simply unhook it from the inside in the middle and drop it down until you hear a click. Reverse the process by first hitting the release lever near the glove box, then move the roof into position. Once you start the process, if the windows are open, they will automatically slide half way down to avoid a potential glass-cracking catastrophe.

Interior Highlights

Inside, the cabin is well, snug. The following are four points I have pulled out covering the interior.

1. Not for tall people. If you are tall and have drooled over the Miata or the 124 Spider, you may wonder if you can fit inside. Comfortably, that is. Likely, if you are somewhere north of 6-feet-tall, this little Fiat just will not work for you. At a shade under 6 feet, I found the getting in difficult — back end first helps. The cabin is tight with very little room to maneuver. But do not take my word for it — attempt to slip behind the wheel to find out for yourself.

2. Not a square inch wasted. Some vehicles have what seems like acres of wasted space on the dashboard, but this Fiat roadster makes use of every tiny corner. It has to. it causes a few odd placements, though, including the immovable and protruding cup-holder on the passenger side. As for the driver’s drink-holder, it is located between the seat-backs in front of the glove box. Retrieving your drink takes patience and some skill as you reach over with your left arm while steering with your right. You might find wedging a bottle between the seat and door a better option.

3. Comfortable, sporty seats. The seats are reasonably comfortable and bolstered, just as you would expect. There is no seat extender, but then movement is quite restricted. The steering column tilts, but it does not telescope. Again, room is extremely limited, which explains the restricted movement of both the seat and column.

4. An assortment of touches. The hand-brake seems like a throwback to another era. An electronic brake switch would seem like the better choice here as it would consume less room. Alas, it is not offered. The vent dials are circular as are the main controls for everything else. Further, storage is minimal, but you will find a place to tuck or stack smartphones and connect to two USB points to keep them charged.

Safety & Technology Features

Small models are typically thin on the amenities, especially one so reasonably priced as this Fiat and its Mazda cousin. It does come with a rearview camera and offers blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. A rear parking sensor is also available, but driver-assist technologies are not offered.

Most models come with a four-speaker audio system and Bluetooth. Upgrades include satellite radio, a 7-inch color display and HD Radio. Choose a package upgrade and you’ll score a 9-speaker Bose audio system with GPS navigation.

On the Road: Fiat 124 Spider Abarth

Any chance you can (especially whenever the weather cooperates) you will want to drop the top on this Fiat. The prime reason for many to own a Fiata — Fiat/Miata — is to soak up the sun and connect with the road.

That connection is amplified in the Abarth with its humming engine and a pleasant exhaust note. The note corresponds nicely to the engine’s size — no overwrought tune to make you go hmmm….

2018 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth My test model came with the automatic transmission (sigh), but I made work of the paddle shifters from time to time. The Fiat’s engine is unique to it, a 1.4-liter turbo, generating 164 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. That is considerably better than the 155 hp/148 lb.-ft. for the Miata. Both engines offer an available six-speed short-throw manual gearbox.

The fun continues as the Abarth enjoys a sport-tuned suspension versus the usual touring suspension. Add in a limited-slip differential for improved control and handling and you’ll see this roadster means business.

Fire up the ignition and the little engine that could delivers a boomlet, while the exhaust purrs. Step-off acceleration is even, turbo lag is not a big drag and moving up to highway speeds is fun. The exhilaration begins on the twisty roads where this little roadster hugs the pavement, pushes into each turn with abandon and leaves corners with ease.

Steering is sufficiently weighted and handling is a true joy. Close your eyes (well, don’t) and you might imagine yourself behind the wheel of a far costlier model. Then again, the truth is in the horsepower and you will quickly come to your senses that this is not a Porsche 911. But with just 2,500 pounds present, this tiny Fiat is tossable with a big “T.”

2018 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth

Fiat 124 Spider Parting Thoughts

Will the 124 Spider save Fiat? No. What it does do is burnish its image. Yes, Fiat turned to Mazda to produce the model and that makes for a compromise some may find deplorable. At the same time, it shows how competing manufacturers can find a common ground — Mazda gets some cash, while Fiat receives a halo model.

As for the consumer, the 124 Spider adds a wrinkle to the roadster segment, essentially creating a competitor to the Mazda. But the duo remain unique in this world, with only the hardtop Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86 offering the closest competition, especially to the Miata RF, a hardtop exclusive to Mazda.

Pay more (a lot more in some cases) and the Nissan 370Z, Porsche 718 Boxster/Cayman and the Audi TT, might also be examined. It really is not a fair fight as the Fiata duo simply undercut and in some ways overwhelm the competition.

2018 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth

[Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”11″ gal_title=”2018 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth”]

2018 Fiat 124 Spider Specifications

Fiat	2018 124 Spider
Segment	Roadster
Base Sticker Price	$24,995 (plus $995 destination fee)
Price as tested	$29,290
Standard Engine	1.4-liter, turbocharged inline-four
Horsepower	164 @ 5,500 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.)	184 @ 2,500 to 3,200 RPMs
Transmission	Six-speed automatic
Seating	2
Curb Weight (pounds)	2,516
Wheelbase (inches)	90.9
Length (inches)	159.6
Width (inches)	68.5
Height (inches)	48.5
Head room (inches)	37.4
Leg room (inches)	43.1
Shoulder room (inches)	52.1
Hip room (inches)	52.0
Storage (cubic feet)	4.94
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	NR
Towing (pounds)	NR
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	91 octane recommended
Fuel Tank (gallons)	11.9
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway)	25/36
Manufacturing Plant	Hiroshima, Japan

See Also — On the Road With a 2017 Fiat 124 Spider

Bantam Conveyance: 2017 Fiat 500

September 25, 2017 by admin 1 Comment

Behind the wheel of Fiat’s tiniest model.

City cars are the smallest models you can purchase in North America, typically defined by such A-segment vehicles as the Smart ForTwo, Scion iQ, Chevrolet Spark, and the Fiat 500. Few manufacturers have dared to release such models for American and Canadian consumers, who typically prefer large vehicles over small.

The Fiat 500 soldiers on, now beginning its seventh model year. It’s late 2011 arrival also ushered in Fiat’s return to the North American market after a long absence. Like competing models, the 500 sits on a tiny footprint, measuring just under 12-feet long from bumper to bumper.

North American consumers haven’t embraced tiny cars in the big numbers they have elsewhere and that’s why the Scion iQ (as well as the brand) are gone and the Smart model is now an electric vehicle. Spark sales have tumbled by more than half this year, but 500 sales are down just 7 percent, roughly in line with the decline of all small cars.

2017 Fiat 500c

My test model was a 2017 Fiat 500c. The “c” stands for cabriolet, in this case a model where the roof folds back, but the roof pillars stay in place. You can drop the side windows to enhance the open-air experience.

Fiat offers the 2017 500 in three trims — Pop ($14,995), Lounge ($18,495), and Abarth ($19,995). Add $995 for the destination charge and another $1,495 for the cabriolet. This means it is entirely possible to find a new convertible costing under $18,000.

2017 Fiat 500c

Exterior Highlights

If the first impression you get of the Fiat 500 is its smallness, you aren’t alone. There is little getting past its Lilliputian size, a vehicle that seems at first designed for a small race of people. But it also champions Fiat’s design moxie as the 500 combines a timeless look with a modern theme.

Indeed, the Fiat 500 you see today takes its styling cues from the original, introduced in 1957 and built for nearly 20 years. Fifty years after the original rolled out, the current-generation model arrived, bringing with it a wholly modernized touch on the original theme.

The new model retains the circular theme of the original, with its round headlamps and daytime running lights combining with the narrow grille openings to place a design statement on the front fascia. At the rear, you’ll find stacked combination lamp casings, housing circular brake, backup and turn signal lights.

Fiat dresses the 500 in 15-, 16- or 17-inch aluminum wheels. Standard equipment includes halogen headlamps; power-folding, heated side mirrors; and your choice of a hard or cabrio top. If you choose the cabrio, it folds back and stacks immediately behind the vehicle. The main drawback here is your rear sight lines are blocked.

2017 Fiat 500c

Interior Overview

Certainly, the 500’s cabin is small. That said, it seems roomier than it is — Fiat makes good use of limited space, delivering a front compartment that’s reasonably comfortable for the driver and passenger. It also helps that the 500 is taller than comparable cars, as that extra space translates into higher sitting seats with more legroom.

Even rear passengers are possible, although it takes some imagination on how to get people back there. If the driver and front passenger don’t need a lot of legroom, the rear compartment is bearable on short trips, especially for children. Even so, the 500’s 2+2 layout is skewed toward whoever is up front.

Fiat doesn’t try to hide the fact that the 500 uses plastic — and plenty of it. Indeed, the entire lower dash panel is comprised of plastic cladding — creating visual interest for this little people mover. All dials, switches, door handles, vents, and even the top of the seat backs are round. The circular theme runs rampant through the interior, giving the 500 a youthful, even playful look.

Standard equipment includes power windows and door locks, a manual tilt steering column, leather-wrapped steering wheel, air conditioning, and a 12-volt outlet. Optional equipment includes automatic temperature control, a front passenger seat armrest, front seatback pockets, and heated seats. Cloth seats are standard; leather seats are optional.

2017 Fiat 500c

Safety Features and Rating

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2017 500 with its top scores in four of five crash testing categories. But it also assigned its lowest score for its small overlap front test. There are two things at work here: 1), the Fiat’s design predates the test and would need a significant structural overhaul to comply, and 2), the vehicle’s size simply means it is at a disadvantage. So long as you understand these two points, you’ll know what to expect.

Most passenger vehicles offer at least some sort of crash avoidance & mitigation system. The Fiat 500 does not. What you will find is a suite of airbags along with the usual traction and stability control, and anti-lock brakes. A rear park assist system is standard, except on the base model.

Top Technologies

Standard technologies include an audio package with a 5-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity and iPod interface and a USB charging port. An upgraded and available Beats audio system has satellite radio and is also tied in with GPS navigation with a one-year subscription.

Clearly, the Fiat 500 offers only base technologies, but that’s typical for this class.

2017 Fiat 500c

On the Road: 2017 Fiat 500

You get a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine making 101 horsepower and 97 pound-feet of torque in the 500 and 500c. Fiat pairs this engine with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

My test model had the automatic transmission. Most definitely, the 500c isn’t anywhere near a performance model. It is best owned and operated by city dwellers who prize the small footprint and want a reasonably economical car. I say “reasonably” because there are larger cars that equal or beat the diminutive Fiat’s fuel economy.

Happily, the open road isn’t the Fiat’s enemy. I found sufficient power when needed, owing in part to its sub-2,500 pound weight. When accelerating hard you might wish for the benefit of a turbo (as found in the Abarth) — as it can take some effort passing at highway speeds.

Steering is light to the touch and the tight turning radius is a joy to behold. I imagine on the streets of Manhattan the 500 is especially loved, particularly when navigating the narrow streets in Greenwich Village and DUMBO. Parallel parking is a snap too — who needs assistance when you can do it yourself and with plenty of space left over?

2017 Fiat 500c

Parting Thoughts: 2017 Fiat 500c

The Fiat 500 is most certainly small, thus its size is of limited appeal to many. Some shoppers may want more power and that’s where the Abarth edition with its turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 160 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque (manual) or 157 hp and 183 lb.-ft. of torque (automatic) makes things interesting. It also starts at $20,000, an affordable price point for any small car.

Fiat fans also have the larger 500L and the utility 500X to consider — we must not forget the 124 Spider, derived from the Mazda Miata. If a tidy package is what you want, then Fiat has you covered.

2017 Fiat 500c

Sticker price from $14,995
Seats four
Engine: 1.4-liter I4 gas
101 horsepower @ 6,500 RPM
97 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,000 RPM
5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 90.6 inches
Length: 139.6 inches
Width: 64.1 inches
Height: 59.8 inches
Passenger volume: 75.5/76.2 (500c) cubic feet
Storage volume: 9.5/5.4 (500c) cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 31/38 (manual)28/33 (automatic) mpg city/highway
Premium gasoline
Fuel tank: 10.5 gallons
Curb weight: From 2,366 to 2,511 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Good, except for Poor in small overlap front
Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/100,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Toluca, Mexico

On the Road With a 2017 Fiat 124 Spider

February 2, 2017 by admin 4 Comments

Once again, Mazda supplies a model for a competitor.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider

Fiat has struggled mightily ever since returning to the US in 2011. A large part of that blame has to do with product mix.

Indeed, timing is everything in this market and that’s one reason why small car models such as the 500 and 500L have been poorly received. A third model, the compact 500X SUV has held its own, but it has been outsold by nearly a 10-to-1 basis by the similar Jeep Renegade. When it comes down to it, Jeep has much better name recognition than Fiat.

Fiat isn’t giving up on the market, but its fourth model line is its most intriguing one yet. As it did with the 500, Fiat turned to its heritage to pluck a model name, in this case, the 124 Spider. The original model was a 2+2 convertible sports car built from 1966 to 1985, then followed by the Barchetta or “little boat,” originally meaning an Italian-style open two-seater sports car designed for racing.

Although Fiat resurrected the 124 Spider name for its latest offering, it turned to a competitor to supply the new vehicle. The two-seat Fiat is based on none other than the current-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata, quite easily the world’s best-known mainstream roadster. Mazda may not have the market pull of the top guns, but it does have product that is the envy of its competitors. Even the world’s largest automaker, Toyota, has turned to Mazda for one model, namely the Yaris iA (formerly the Scion iA), based on none other than the Mazda2.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider

The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is available in three trims: Classica ($24,995), Lusso ($27,495), and Abarth ($28,195) — add $995 for destination. My Lusso test model added a customer preferred package ($3,795) and an automatic transmission ($1,350), bringing this vehicle’s final price to $33,635. However, a $2,300 package credit cut that cost to $31,335.

Underneath it all, the Fiat 124 Spider is very much a Mazda. But what Fiat did to the body and to the engine sets this model apart from the Miata.

Both models sit on a 90.9-inch wheelbase and share the same general structure. Underneath, the suspension is roughly the same, but each model has unique springs, dampers, and roll bars. The key differences include overhang and weight — the Fiat is 5.5 inches longer and nearly 200 pounds heavier. As the pictures show, the front and rear fascias are drastically different.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider

Same Transmission Choices, Different Engines

The most significant separation between the two is what’s under the hood. Mazda relies on a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 155 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque to move the Miata. Fiat comes in with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 160 horsepower (164 hp in the Abarth) and 184 pound-feet of torque. Both models are paired with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic transmission. My test Mazda last year had the manual; the Fiat loaner came with the automatic.

Nearly everything else about the two roadsters is the same, although you’ll find different door panels and gauge faces in the Fiat. Sound deadening materials, including an acoustic windshield, thicker rear glass, and under carpet filler insulate and add weight. Despite the added materials, I found the cabin noisy — but, then, I like the feedback.

If you haven’t sat inside a Miata or 124 Spider, you’ll immediately realize two things:

1) You’ll need to drop way down to get in, and

2) Space is tight!

The first point shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone who regularly drives or rides in sports cars. The second point may be an unknown to people not familiar with this model. But I can say that my 6-foot frame fits fine with a few inches to spare. That said, I prefer additional legroom, but you’re not going to find it.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider

Winter Drop Top Driving

Delivering a convertible to my NC home in January is risky. Nearly a year earlier, the Miata arrived and was almost immediately locked in as one of our famous ice storms came through. Two days later the roads were clear, but thick ice was still shoved underneath the roof. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to drop the top.

This year, the weather alternated between cold and mild, but at least it remained clear. That means on the very first day the air temperature nudged the 50-degree mark (Fahrenheit, naturally), my oldest son and I took a 20-mile trip with the roof down. Dropping the roof means disconnecting two latches and a hook, then easing the roof behind the seats and just ahead of the teeny-weeny trunk (measuring 4.94 cubic feet — barely large enough to hold a pair of weekend bags. It is a quick process and once the roof is down, it clicks in place.

Besides freezing when driving, we took in all the noise the roadster delivers. And that noise isn’t much louder than with the roof up and secured in place.

My neighbor turned up his nose at the Fiat when he learned it was equipped with the automatic transmission. Then again, I’ve had my share of Corvettes and other hot cars with slush boxes too — let’s just say that automatics win out with most customers and that’s reality.

At least Fiat doesn’t include paddle shifters, which means if you want to control shifts you’ll put the transmission in “sport” and tap the shifter to move up and down the gear ratio. It isn’t my way of having fun, so I just left the roadster in drive mode and stomped on the pedal.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider

On the Road

Fiat’s 1.4-liter turbo is a decent engine, especially in the roadster. Of course, you have to deal with turbo boost delay, but the pause is only minimal, while the power supplied is worth the lag. You may object to assigning the term “sports car” to this vehicle and that’s a fair rebuttal. That said, the zippiness of this car and its fun-to-drive handling characteristics means this rear-wheel drive machine is worth at least a look.

Again, I was handed the keys (key fob) of an automatic — the manual is something entirely different (and slower) according to Car & Driver. If that experience is anything like the manually-equipped 500L I had two years ago, then I know precisely what that means — disappointment.

One area where Fiat has an edge is with the Recaro seats found in the Abarth edition. Not that you need them for the extra four horsepower that comes with this model, but the bolstering and overall support appeals to some enthusiasts. On the other hand, I’ve heard people complain about Recaros for being too stiff for long-haul driving. Then again, if you have any sort of back problems no roadster or sports car will do you much good.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider

Parting Thoughts

Fuel economy comes in at an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway for the automatic (26/35 for the manual). Mine came in even below those estimates — closer to 20 mpg. I know this because the fuel needle quickly moved to the half full point after only 120 miles. I can’t blame elevation for the discrepancy — cold weather may have been a factor.

Fiat hit it right with the 124 Spider, although the current iteration is nothing like the original. Some purists may be put-off by Fiat turning to Mazda instead of building the car internally. Let me say this: if Mazda didn’t offer up the Miata, there wouldn’t be a Fiat roadster. Fiat Chrysler just doesn’t have the resources to build this car from the ground up — SUVs, pickup trucks, and Alfa Romeo are a priority.

As for your choice of model, the tester I drove is a very good example of one to consider. But if you want a slight performance edge, the Abarth edition has a sport-tuned suspension and a limited-slip differential, two must haves for people who prefer twisty roads.
2017 Fiat 124 Spider

New Arrival: Fiat 124 Spider

June 9, 2016 by admin 3 Comments

All-new roadster adds pizzazz to the Fiat brand.

Fiat’s reintroduction to the US market has been met with a tepid reception. Five years after its return, the Italian marque is struggling, as brand sales are down 18.6 percent through May 2016.

Two of Fiat’s three models are presenting a tremendous drag on sales. Demand for the diminutive Fiat 500 is off by 48 percent; Fiat 500L sales have plunged 62.8 percent. Offsetting some of that loss is the 500X, a subcompact crossover SUV introduced a year ago and sharing its underpinnings with the Jeep Renegade. Fiat 500X sales are set to overtake the 500, but it won’t be nearly enough to stop the loss.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider

This month, a fourth Fiat model arrives — the 124 Spider. The name should be a familiar one to Fiat faithful as this roadster was introduced nearly 50 years ago. For 20 years the 124 Sport Spider soldiered on, receiving several updates along the way.

Coupe and convertible versions were sold in the US beginning in 1968. Production ended in 1985, succeeded a decade later by the Fiat Barchetta before the latter was discontinued in 2005.

Some believe Fiat is well-served with a roadster in its product line. However, the current arrangement for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles doesn’t permit such an expensive investment in a risky segment, but that hasn’t precluded FCA from forging a joint venture with Mazda to obtain one. The first model in that venture is the Fiat 124 Spider, a roadster sharing its underpinnings with the fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider

Italian Design and Heritage

There is some risk here for both automakers. On the one hand, Fiat may not enjoy quite the sales lift it desires. On the other hand, a successful 124 Spider could siphon interest from the MX-5 Miata. No matter, Mazda should come out a winner as it recoups some of the cost of building this roadster.

“Our mission at FIAT is to deliver Italian design and heritage in vehicles that are fun to drive,” said Olivier Francois, Head of FIAT Brand, FCA – Global. “The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider brings these elements together and comes loaded with open-air fun, stunning Italian design and the proven turbocharged MultiAir 1.4-liter engine.”

The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is powered by a 1.4-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It comes paired with a 6-speed manual or an available Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission.

Three Trims Available

Three trims are offered — Classica, $24,995; Lusso, $27,495; and Abarth, $28,195. A special introductory Prima Edizione in Azzurro Italia (dynamic blue mica) launch edition with 17-inch, silver-painted premium aluminum wheels will kick things off. Just 124 models will be built with the price pegged at $35,000.

All 124 Spiders are outfitted with 16- or 17-inch wheels. A dual-tip exhaust is standard as is a roll bar, the latter painted in black in the base model. Halogen headlamps and LED taillights are standard. Cloth or leather seats are included, depending on the model.

The Abarth edition receives special exterior colors, front and rear Bilstein sport suspension, quad-tip exhaust, and unique front and rear fascias. This model also gets a very slight boost in performance, 164 horsepower up from the standard 160. All models produce 184 foot-pounds of torque. Available features include a Brembo braking system and Recaro seats.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider

Additional Joint Models Possible?

There is no word on how much FCA paid Mazda to develop the 124 Spider. Nor do we know if the venture will produce other models. But collaboration in the auto industry is rife and small-time Mazda and suitor-seeking FCA should both benefit regardless where this relationship is headed.

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Fiata: 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Debuts

November 19, 2015 by admin 2 Comments

A spider of another kind.

No doubt, Fiat’s North American product line is lacking a signature model, especially one that could elevate this Italian brand’s position in the market. The 500 and 500L have fallen far short of expectations, while the 500X is showing much promise.

Still, aside from a few Abarth models, the fun factor is absent from a brand that desperately needs such a competitive edge.

Beginning next year, Fiat will finally get the niche model it needs. It’ll come in the form of the Fiat 124 Spider, a model initially rolled out a half century ago. However, the latest iteration moves past its Fiat roots and comes courtesy of Mazda. Indeed, the 124 Spider is based on the architecture supporting the Mazda MX-5 Miata, while advancing its own design. Thus, enthusiasts have dubbed the new model the Fiata in recognition of this unique industry partnership.

Los Angeles Debut

The 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show provided a fitting venue for this rear-wheel drive model’s release. Californians have a thing for roadsters, and if there is a particular market that can give this brand the necessary impetus to move forward, the Golden State is certainly it.

Although the 124 Spider shares its architecture with the MX-5 Miata, there are a number of components and features unique to this vehicle. For one, the roadster will be powered by a 1.4-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine, making 160 horsepower and 184 foot-pounds of twist. This “Tiger Shark” engine is familiar to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) fans and should find a welcome home under the hood of the 124 Spider. It comes paired with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The style is all Fiat or at least it is heavily influenced by the company. The front fascia is marked by a broad grille with a wide upper portion and a narrow lower air intake. Distinct wraparound headlamps are accented by circular LED daytime running lights. The lower grille is hemmed in by parking and fog lights set within beautifully sculpted embrasures.

Fiat 124 Spider.

Beautifully Crafted Exterior

From stem to stern, this model flows naturally. Petite, but muscular shoulders, upper and lower profile character lines, and rocker panel embellishments are also present. Fashionable 12-spoke aluminum alloy wheels help draw attention to this vehicle. At the rear is a broad deck, marked by oversized combination lights, body sculpting, and dual exhaust tips. An easy opening soft top convertible roof rounds out the visage.

Inside, this model comes with its share of creature comforts, including keyless entry and push button start, a FIAT Connect telematics system with a 7-inch display, multimedia control, Bluetooth connectivity, and heated seats. Upgrades include a 9-speaker Bose audio system.

A double-wishbone suspension system up front and a multi-link layout in the rear are present. The latter is tuned to provide superior stability while braking as well as turning. An electric power assist or dual pinion steering system is also present. To mitigate noise, an acoustic windshield and insulation treatments have been employed to enhance the driving experience.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider Editions

When the 124 Spider arrives in Fiat studios in summer 2016, it will initially be offered as a limited-edition Prima Edizione Lusso model garbed in Azzurro Italia (Blue) exterior paint along with premium leather seats in a saddle hue. After that, two trim levels will be available — Classica and Lusso. Each one will offer six color choices. In addition, the Lusso or luxury model will offer a tricot crystal white pearl color as an upgrade.

The Fiat 124 Spider represents the second time this year a Mazda model has been transformed to supply a vehicle to a competing manufacturer. In September, the Scion iA rolled out, a subcompact sedan built for Toyota and based on the Mazda 2.

For Mazda, these partnerships are beneficial as the company reaps financial support while maintaining its independence. It also allows the company to spread its costs across more model lines and use those savings to fund new models, including an expected rotary-powered sports car.