cars news 10: 2017 Fiat 124 Elaborazione Abarth Revealed Ahead of New York Debut

Fiat will introduce a new variant of the 2017 124 Spider at the 2016 New York auto show called the Elaborazione Abarth. Essentially a more performance-oriented trim level, this variant of the Fiat 124 Spider comes with an array of suspension tweaks to improve the car’s handling and driving dynamics.

Like the standard 124 Spider, the 124 Spider Elaborazione Abarth is powered by a 1.4-liter turbo-four rated at 160 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque that can be paired to a choice of a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters. A unique feature on the 2017 124 Spider Elaborazione Abarth is a Sport mode that changes the calibrations of the engine, automatic transmission, electric power steering, and dynamic stability control system for a more engaging driving experience and improved responsiveness. The Elaborazione Abarth comes with a unique sport-tuned suspension that includes monotube Bilstein shocks, and optional Brembo brakes. A mechanical limited-slip differential is also standard and comes with a low torque bias ratio for improved traction, launch performance, handling, and power delivery.

The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Elaborazione Abarth sets itself apart from the standard car thanks to more aggressive front and rear fascias, black side sills, 17-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, and a quad exhaust system with a unique engine note.Five color choices are available, Bianco Gelato (White Clear Coat), Rosso Passione (Red Clear Coat), Nero Cinema (Jet Black Metallic), Grigio Argento (Gray Metallic), and tri-coat Bianco Perla (Crystal White Pearl).

Inside, the 2017 124 Spider Elaborazione Abarth comes with red stitching in the steering wheel, instrument cluster hood, lower instrument panel, and the parking brake. Additional cabin details that are exclusive to the Elaborazione Abarth include a matte black instrument panel bezel, and aluminum-accented sport pedals. Black leather/microfiber seats are standard while full leather seats in black or two-ton black/red are optional. Recaro bucket seats are also available as an optional extra.

At 160 hp, the Elaborazione Abarth is down 10 hp from the European Abarth 124. So because there’s no power boost, you can think of the Elaborazione Abarth as being to the 124 what the Miata Club is to the standard Miata.

European-spec Abarth 124 Spider pictured below.

Source: FCA