“If you want pure Italian fun with the top down, the Fiat 124 Abarth will not disappoint!”
2018 FIAT 124 Spider: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for 2018 is the new Lusso-based Red Top Edition, which pairs a Bordeaux Red soft top with several luxury and technology features. Otherwise, the 124 Spider is largely unchanged from 2017.
About the 2018 FIAT 124 Spider
1st generation (2017-2020), second model year.
FIAT sells the 124 Spider as an Italian-flavored two-seat roadster that mixes classic 1960s Spider design cues with easy top-down driving. Compared with the Mazda MX-5 Miata underneath, the 124 Spider leans more toward turbocharged mid-range pull, richer cabin trim, and relaxed open-air cruising than razor-sharp track focus. Its main draw is simple: rear-wheel-drive fun with distinctive Italian styling and a more upscale feel than many small roadsters.
The 2018 range starts with the simple Classica, which has a 160-hp turbo engine and a manually operated soft top. The comfort-focused Lusso adds heated leather-trimmed seats and a 7-inch infotainment screen, while the 164-hp Abarth emphasizes sharper handling with Bilstein shocks and a limited-slip differential. The new Red Top Edition turns the Lusso into a more style-focused, fully equipped special edition.
What changed, by category
Styling
The Lusso-based Red Top Edition joins the range with a Bordeaux Red soft top and bright silver 17-inch wheels. The Prima Edizione Lusso is dropped for 2018.
Tech
The Red Top Edition bundles GPS navigation, a Bose nine-speaker audio system, and LED adaptive headlamps. Satellite radio becomes standard on the Abarth and Lusso after being optional in 2017.
2018 FIAT 124 Spider specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, MultiAir, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, MultiAir, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, MultiAir, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, MultiAir, Turbo, 1.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 36 mpg | 36 mpg | 36 mpg | 36 mpg |
| Horsepower | 160 hp | 164 hp | 160 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 4.9 cu-ft | 4.9 cu-ft | 4.9 cu-ft | 4.9 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Headlights | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2018 FIAT 124 Spider?
The biggest change is the new Lusso Red Top Edition. It combines a Bordeaux Red fabric roof and bright silver 17-inch wheels with navigation, Bose audio, and LED adaptive headlamps.
How is the 2018 FIAT 124 Spider different from the 2017 model?
The 2018 model adds the Lusso Red Top Edition, drops the Prima Edizione Lusso, and makes satellite radio standard on the Lusso and Abarth. The engines, chassis, and rest of the core formula carry over.
Did the 2018 FIAT 124 Spider get a new engine?
No, the engines carry over for 2018. The Classica and Lusso retain a 160-hp 1.4-liter turbo engine, while the Abarth retains its 164-hp version.
Was the Prima Edizione Lusso still offered for 2018?
No, the Prima Edizione Lusso was dropped for 2018. The Lusso-based Red Top Edition joined the range as a separate new special edition, not as a renamed continuation.
Did every 2018 FIAT 124 Spider receive new technology?
No, there was no lineup-wide technology upgrade. The Red Top Edition bundled navigation, Bose audio, and LED adaptive headlamps, while satellite radio became standard specifically on the Lusso and Abarth.
2018 FIAT 124 Spider Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 FIAT 124 Spider.
4.5
2018 FIAT 124 Spider
(152 reviews)
“Great fun to drive. Excellent Quality fit & finish. Best interior lay-out. Outstanding value”
“It is a unique sports car, everyone wants to know what it is since it is badged as an Abarth.”