Fiat has released the first official pictures of its high performance 500 Abarth, which will make its international public debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

The new model is powered by a Euro V 1.4 16v petrol turbo engine which boasts 135bhp at 5,500rpm and peak torque of 152 lb ft at 3,000rpm in Sport mode.

The 500 Abarth was developed by Fiat Group Automobiles Style Centre in the spirit of the 500 Abarth from the 1960s.

Interior extras include an analogue gauge to measure turbo pressure and an LED which lights up at the appropriate moment for optimal gear changes.

Prices and a UK on sale date are yet to be announced.

  • Click on the next page for a full break down of the 500 Abarth specification. #AM_ART_SPLIT# 500 Abarth specification

    Engine

  • 4 cylinders in line, 4 valves per cylinder, 1368 cc;
  • Power output: 135 bhp at 5,500 rpm;
  • Peak torque in Sport mode: 206 Nm (152 lb.ft) at 3,000 rpm;
  • ‘Drive-by-wire’ accelerator control, without mechanical connection;
  • Turboboost by IHI variable geometry turbo.

    Transmission

  • Five-speed gearbox;
  • Dual cable external gearbox control;

    Suspension and steering

  • MacPherson layout at front with anti-roll bar;
  • Torsion beam axle with anti-roll bar;
  • Dualdrive electric power steering, with Sport mode.

    Brakes

  • Floating ZPH 4.1.2 front calliper, piston diameter 54 mm;
  • Ventilated front brake discs, diameter 284 x 22 mm;
  • Floating CII 34 rear calliper, piston diameter 34 mm;
  • Solid rear brake discs, diameter 240 x 11 mm.

    Wheels

  • Standard: Aluminium alloy rim 6.5-inch x 16-inch – tyres: 195/45 R16;
  • Optional: Aluminium alloy rim 7-inch x 17-inch – tyres: 205/40 R17.