“Fun little sports car, I get compliments everywhere I go. No backseat room, no real trunk space, just a cool little performance car that's perfect for winding roads.”
2014 FIAT 500 Abarth: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for 2014 is the addition of Base hatchback and Cabrio trims to the 500 Abarth lineup. Otherwise, this is a light update centered on a revised front passenger seat and a new standard wheel design.
About the 2014 FIAT 500 Abarth
First North American FIAT 500 generation; 500 Abarth hatchback’s third U.S. model year and Abarth Cabrio’s second, before the larger 2015 tech update.
FIAT positioned the 500 Abarth as a tiny performance car with much more personality than a typical city hatchback. The appeal was not cabin space or softness; it was the combination of a 160-hp turbo engine, standard manual gearbox, loud dual exhaust, quick responses, and unmistakable Italian styling in a very small footprint. The model range targeted drivers who wanted a fun everyday car that felt special at low and high speeds alike, with the Cabrio adding open-air character to the same basic formula.
FIAT positioned the fixed-roof Abarth as the sharper, more hard-edged version, with a 160-hp turbo engine, five-speed manual, lowered suspension, stronger brakes, and a distinctive exhaust note. The Cabrio keeps that performance hardware but adds a power-retractable cloth roof for an open-air experience.
What changed, by category
Lineup
Base hatchback and Cabrio trims joined the 500 Abarth lineup.
Structural
The front passenger seat was revised to sit about an inch lower for more headroom. It also gained an armrest and seat-memory function.
Styling
Both body styles received a new standard 16-inch wheel design. The body itself was not redesigned.
2014 FIAT 500 Abarth specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl MultiAir Turbo 1.4L | 4-Cyl MultiAir Turbo 1.4L |
| Transmission | Manual, 5-Spd | Manual, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 28 mpg | 28 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 34 mpg | 34 mpg |
| Horsepower | 160 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 170 lb-ft | 170 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 9.5 cu-ft | 5.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.7 in | 31.7 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Power Retractable Soft Top | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Tilt Wheel | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2014 FIAT 500 Abarth?
The 2014 lineup added Base hatchback and Cabrio trims. Both body styles also received a lower front passenger seat with more headroom, an armrest and seat memory, along with a new standard 16-inch wheel design.
Was the 2014 FIAT 500 Abarth redesigned?
No, the 2014 FIAT 500 Abarth was not redesigned. It received light seating and wheel updates while retaining the same basic body, chassis and suspension layout.
Did the 2014 FIAT 500 Abarth get a different engine or transmission?
No, the 2014 FIAT 500 Abarth retained its 160-hp 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive and five-speed manual transmission.
What is the difference between the 2014 FIAT 500 Abarth hatchback and Cabrio?
The 2014 Cabrio adds a power-retractable cloth roof, while the Base model has a fixed roof. Both use the same 160-hp turbo engine, five-speed manual, lowered Abarth suspension and four-wheel disc brakes.
2014 FIAT 500 Abarth Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2014 FIAT 500 Abarth.
4.1
2014 FIAT 500 Abarth
(12 reviews)
“Love the vehicle. Small but is very fun to drive. Our one son has graduated but we still have a 14 year old that lives with us. Only major problem is when the top is all the way down you cant see out rearview mirror. But very fun to drive and a great purchase at this time in our lives.”
“Very fun car to drive. Always get compliments on it. Love the maneuverability and gas mileage, the sun roof is nice. Definitely get it in manual, so much better for control.”