New Abarth 595 prices announced

Prices from £15K for the latest quick 500, though you'll probably want the more expensive ones...

Did you know the Abarth 500 has been around since 2008? There have been enough versions in that time to get a little confused, but it still appears to be a popular little hot hatch. Furthermore, there isn't a Renaultsport Twingo anymore, and you can't imagine many customers looking at an Abarth would also consider a Suzuki Swift Sport or Vauxhall Adam S. The Mini will always pose a threat to the 500, but it's rather less cute than it used to be...

Modena Yellow is new for regular 595 Abarths

This is the latest Abarth, the revised 595. It's on sale from today in three specification and two bodystyles: standard 595, Turismo and Competizione are all available as hatchbacks and convertibles. There are important differences between those models too, more so than just trim and wheels.

So while the 595 looks tempting at just £15,090, it does without a lot of the equipment that looks rather appealing further up in the range. As well as just 145hp (against 165hp), it does without the Koni FSD dampers and the new, lighter 17-inch 'Granturismo' wheels found in the Turismo. Get hold of a Competizione and the 595 also comes with a mechanical limited-slip diff, Brembo brakes and Sabelt seats, plus the option of a Performance Pack. With 180hp, Abarth claims a 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds.

Used ones are getting cheap though...

However, there are features standard on all new 595s to entice buyers in. The front end is redesigned, with tangible heat management benefits: the new grille is said to increase cooling capacity. There's a more pronounced rear diffuser, new exterior colours and a standard Sport button, responsible for sharpening the usual dynamic parameters.

Inside - and let's be honest, that's important for an Abarth 595 - there is now a new steering wheel and instrument display, plus a Uconnect infotainment system with telemetry, Apple CarPlay and standard BeatsAudio. Don't underestimate the important of those last two!

Above the standard 595, the Turismo is £18,290 and the Competizione £20,290. Each convertible model carries a £2,000 premium. So yes, a Competizione drop-top is £22,290. If you're tempted but can't stretch to that, used ones are now available from £6.5K. Hmm...