“Not comfortable for a larger frame person. Recaro driver seat left bolster digs into thigh. Fun great performing car that is quick and agile and gets great mileage while looking fast and exotic. Great performance for the dollar.”
FIAT 124 Spider: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The FIAT 124 Spider is a two-seat, rear-wheel-drive sports convertible known for Italian styling, a torque-rich turbo engine, and easygoing open-air fun.
FIAT revived the 124 Spider for 2017 as a modern take on a classic roadster, pairing Italian character with the lightweight platform of the related Mazda MX-5 Miata. Through its final 2020 model year, it stayed focused on simple driving fun, easy manners around town, and a cabin designed to feel a little more stylish and comfortable than its Mazda relative. Every modern U.S. version kept the same basic formula: two seats, a manually folding soft top, a turbocharged gas engine, and rear-wheel drive.
Strengths
- Its lightweight platform and easy road manners make it approachable around town as well as enjoyable on a winding road.
- The turbo engine emphasizes usable pulling power, with 184 pound-feet of torque in 2020.
- Fuel economy remained reasonable for a sports car, with the 2020 model rated at 25 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
- The simple manually folding soft top keeps the open-air experience uncomplicated.
- From 2019 onward, every trim had a standard 7-inch touchscreen system.
Who it's for
It fits someone who wants an engaging weekend car that is still friendly enough for errands and everyday driving. It makes the most sense for one or two people who value open-air fun and compact size more than passenger room or cargo space.
FIAT 124 Spider lineup
Classica is the straightforward starting point for shoppers who want the core roadster experience without the more style-focused extras. Lusso is the more dressed-up branch of the family and served as the basis for special versions such as the Red Top Edition. Abarth is the performance-oriented pick, with slightly more power than Classica and Lusso. The Urbana Edition joined in 2019 as a darker, style-focused version based on Classica.
FIAT 124 Spider generations
From 2017 to 2020, the 124 Spider spans 1 generation. The current 1st Modern Generation arrived for 2017.
1st Modern Generation (2017–2020)
The 124 Spider returned as a two-seat, rear-wheel-drive convertible with a manual-folding soft top and a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Classica, Lusso, and Abarth formed the core lineup.
35 In Stock
2020
A quiet final year with the same four-trim lineup, core equipment, and mechanical setup as 2019.
2019Trim changes
The Urbana Edition joins the lineup, and a 7-inch touchscreen becomes standard on every trim.
2018Trim changes
The Lusso-based Red Top Edition joins with a Bordeaux Red soft top, navigation, Bose audio, LED headlights, and silver 17-inch wheels.
2017New generation
The 124 Spider returns as a rear-wheel-drive two-seat convertible with Classica, Lusso, Abarth, and a limited Prima Edizione Lusso.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the FIAT 124 Spider.
Frequently asked questions
Is the FIAT 124 Spider a convertible or a coupe?
It is a two-seat, two-door convertible with a manually folding soft top. Every modern U.S. 124 Spider uses this compact roadster body style rather than a fixed-roof coupe design.
Is the FIAT 124 Spider basically a Mazda MX-5 Miata?
They are closely related, but they have different personalities. The 124 Spider uses the Miata's lightweight foundation with a FIAT turbo engine, classic Italian-inspired styling, and a cabin with a slightly richer, more comfortable feel.
Does the FIAT 124 Spider come as a hybrid?
No. Every modern U.S. 124 Spider from 2017 through 2020 uses a gasoline-powered 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine. There was no hybrid or electric version in this generation.
Does the FIAT 124 Spider have all-wheel drive?
No. Every modern U.S. 124 Spider is rear-wheel drive, meaning the engine powers the rear wheels. That layout helps give this small roadster its playful, balanced driving character.
Was the FIAT 124 Spider sold with a manual and an automatic?
Yes. The modern U.S. 124 Spider was sold with either a manual or an automatic transmission. Both were paired with the model's turbocharged 1.4-liter gasoline engine.
Can the FIAT 124 Spider work as a daily driver?
Yes, if two seats and limited luggage room fit your life. Its small size and easy manners suit commuting and errands, but the 4.9-cubic-foot trunk makes it better for light packing than bulky cargo.
How many modern FIAT 124 Spider generations were sold in the U.S.?
There was one modern U.S. generation, sold from 2017 through 2020. It revived the 124 Spider name as a rear-wheel-drive roadster, and 2020 was its final U.S. model year.
What gas mileage does the FIAT 124 Spider get?
The final U.S. lineup is rated at 25 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. These figures describe 2020 models; ratings for other model years and transmission combinations may differ.
FIAT 124 Spider Reviews
What owners are saying about the FIAT 124 Spider.
4.5
FIAT 124 Spider
(513 reviews)
“A very personal decision. You must enjoy driving, especially with a manual transmission and open-top car.”
“Love the looks, styling, and uniqueness. I have received many compliments. Fun to drive. But, turbo lags on acceleration.”
“Very happy with all aspects of the car with the exception Nav system. I previously owned a Miata mx-5 and much prefer this vehicle. Only disappointment is lack of android auto integration.”
“If you want pure Italian fun with the top down, the Fiat 124 Abarth will not disappoint!”
“Great fun to drive. Excellent Quality fit & finish. Best interior lay-out. Outstanding value”