“This vehicle is very fun to drive. The speed and maneuverability is surprising considering its small size.”
2017 FIAT 500 Abarth: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for 2017 is the loss of the Cabrio, leaving the Abarth as a hatchback-only model. Otherwise, the hatchback carries over without major mechanical, safety, styling, or technology updates.
About the 2017 FIAT 500 Abarth
First U.S.-market 500 Abarth generation (2012-2019), late-cycle year after the 2016 refresh/tech update.
FIAT positions the 500 Abarth as the scorpion-badged performance version of the tiny 500 hatchback: a small city car with race-inspired attitude, loud character, and real turbo punch. The marketing leans on heritage, sound, and driver involvement more than luxury or practicality. For most shoppers, this model’s appeal is simple: it delivers a loud exhaust, quick steering feel, and distinctive Italian style in a body that is easy to park and fun to drive around town.
The 2017 FIAT 500 Abarth is the small, performance-focused version of the 500, built around driver involvement rather than extra space or luxury. Its signature equipment includes a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine, a loud dual exhaust, a lowered performance-tuned suspension, red brake calipers, high-back sport seats, and a 5-inch touchscreen.
What changed, by category
Lineup
The Cabrio was dropped for 2017, leaving only the Abarth hatchback. The remaining model's core mechanical and technology content carried over.
2017 FIAT 500 Abarth specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl MultiAir Turbo 1.4L |
| Transmission | Manual, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 28 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 33 mpg |
| Horsepower | 160 hp |
| Torque | 170 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 26.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.7 in |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Alarm System | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| Power Moonroof | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Bluetooth | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| USB Ports | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Tilt Wheel | |
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2017 FIAT 500 Abarth compared with 2016?
The Cabrio was dropped for 2017, so the Abarth became hatchback-only. The remaining hatchback carried over with no major changes to its engine, transmissions, chassis, safety equipment, styling, or touchscreen system.
Was there a 2017 FIAT 500 Abarth Cabrio?
No. The Cabrio left the lineup for 2017, leaving the FIAT 500 Abarth as a hatchback-only model.
Did the 2017 FIAT 500 Abarth get a different engine?
No. It retained the turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine and the same manual and automatic transmission choices used previously.
Is the 2017 FIAT 500 Abarth meaningfully different from the 2016 hatchback?
No. The 2017 hatchback is essentially a carryover from 2016 in mechanical, safety, styling, and technology content. The meaningful lineup difference is that the Cabrio was no longer offered.
What performance features does the 2017 FIAT 500 Abarth have?
The 2017 Abarth has a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine, a performance-tuned suspension, four-wheel disc brakes with red calipers, a dual exhaust, and a system that helps limit inside-wheel spin during hard cornering.
2017 FIAT 500 Abarth Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 FIAT 500 Abarth.
4.3
2017 FIAT 500 Abarth
(39 reviews)
“The Fiat 500 Abarth is a blast to drive. You don't expect it to be as powerful as it is. I find excuses to drive more since I got this car.”
“I bought a Fiat Abarth 500, it's so fun to drive it, the sound of the exhaust is so nice I love to hear it. The looks of it makes everybody turn to look at it.”