Fiat marked its return to the U.S. with the small 500 hatchback and since then Fiat has released several models under the 500 badge. Now Fiat is expanding further with a new 124 Spider roadster that is sure to bring some new attention to the brand.
Fiat marked its return to the U.S. with the small 500 hatchback and since then Fiat has released several models under the 500 badge. Now Fiat is expanding further with a new 124 Spider roadster that is sure to bring some new attention to the brand.
On the outside the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider features a sleek roadster design that is inspired by the original Fiat roadster that debuted almost 50 years ago. Under the skin it’s borrows its platform from the Mazda MX-5 Miata, but on the outside it doesn’t share any exterior parts withe the MX-5 Miata. The 124 Spider is also larger than the Mazda, with a larger trunk.
Related: 2016 Fiat 500 gets updated styling inside and out
While the exterior doesn’t immediately let you know that the 124 Spider shares its roots with the Mx-5 Miata, inside it’s a different story. The interior looks nearly identical to the Mazda, although the materials have been upgraded.
Under the hood, there’s a completely different engine. The Fiat 124 Spider is powered by a turbocharged 1.4L four-cylinder with 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is borrowed directly from the Fiat 500 Abarth. The 1.4L sends the power to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or automatic.
When it arrives next summer, the 124 Spider will be available in two trim levels, Classica and Lusso. The base Classica trim comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth and a small touchscreen. The Lusso model adds a larger seven-inch touchscreen, a backup camera and chrome-tipped dual exhaust.
Source: Fiat
