I think this was a very balanced view.... The one thing to remember when anyone buys an Abarth is not to expect a perfect car, but expect a fun car and you will not be disappointed.
I collected my Abarth this week, and had it on a 170 mile round road trip up to and around the Scottish Borders country roads. It’s fun to drive and goes like a rocket. I love it to bits. The only downsides are minor and things you can put up with - door and boot handles feel a bit flimsy, the fuel cap mechanism is just stupid, and it does attract more attention from kids in Clios and Fiestas who think you constantly want to race them
I just got mine on Monday. 🙌 I LOVE it so much. It's so easy to drive, so fun. I drive around with a huge grin on my face all the time 😁. I know the neighborhood will hate me but it's me who's having all the fun 😈😁. Those 165 fillies under the hood are the most fun I've ever had behind the wheel.
@@AutoSocialUK thank you, and thank you for your honest review. It's rare. I agree with you on almost everything. I love the Abarth but it's not for everyone and knowing its particularity will make sure people will go buy one knowing what to expect and not get disappointed in the baby racing car 😉.
I've just had mine for a month. Just makes me appreciate the skill in design and engineering to make this tiny wee car such an adorable angry mini beast. I LOVE IT 😍
Keep at these genuine reviews because although it might take a year or two once the internet notices you your channel will fly as you definitely bring something unique to the party
Haha I agree with this completely. The exhaust is very loud all the time and the suspension is very hard for everyday driving. But it’s good fun and has great styling. Great honest review! 😊
I really appreciate the *honesty* of your reviews, Tish… You say exactly what you think of every car, and the pluses and minuses that you have personally experienced (including the quirkily pleasant surprises or the seemingly minor but nonetheless genuinely frustrating niggles, that so many motoring journalists completely overlook). 👍 You also review a very interesting and varied mix of cars, and appear to drive them long enough to give an informed *driving and ownership* focused perspective, rather than merely reeling off a bland, sterile set of vehicle performance statistics that rarely convey the practical aspects of owning and driving the car. The growing confidence of your reviews and the impressive quality of your video presentations really makes your channel shine, and I applaud you for the painstaking amount of time and effort that you obviously expend, in order to provide your viewers with such quality….. It’s time and effort well spent, because I’m sure that you’re building up a steadily increasing number of loyal and appreciative subscribers because of it. As I liked your video (and because you requested it from those who did) I really wanted to give you “A MASSIVE THUMBS UP.” Unfortunately, however, I couldn’t do that as - when I checked - it turns out that I don’t have a massive thumb… 🤔😉 So I gave you “a handsome and aesthetically proportioned thumbs up” instead….. I hope that’s sufficient. 😂👍
I've owned a 2011 500 esse esse since new. Yes, 17 inch wheels are harsh on Wustralian roads, but owners of other brands, like BMW M3, also experience the same harshness. Fixed the problem by changing down to 16 inch wheels, made things much more comfortable. The exhaust is deliberately noisy, but many new owners fit even noisier aftermarket exhausts and get a "carpark crackle tune" to make more pos and crackles. Otherwise its just the most fun ever in a car.
Have been quite fascinated with these cars especially since they are so affordable and offer good value for money…your review has made think twice..thanks
Do what I did 😄 get one from SOGO for a couple of months and then hand it back. You’ll either fall in love or get it out of your system 😂 I might try living with the comp soon!
I had 4 Abarths, not convertible, and I kind of agree with most of the gripes, especially the gap in the seat. I forgave most things because its an ageing design. Based on a city car, some could be better. Most things should be fixed by now, but they're not. I got used to the driving position, although I doubt I'll go back, though. It is compromised in may ways, the biggest for us being its so tiny If going for a factory order, go for a fixed roof with the sunroof, we did that, makes it much nicer inside. The fuel consumption was around 32, seems worse because the tank is so tiny and the fuel light/range reading is bizarre, that exhaust encourages the revving! I found the gearbox to be fine, I do agree that its a car you always have to "drive", you can't really relax, which is more tiring on longer journeys. But, what fun!
While the Abarth is a very cool thing with loads of personality, you'd have to really, REALLY love the car to put up with it for a long period of time. Otherwise all the little quirks will drive you utterly insane. Italian flair, right? Maybe a liitle too much of it I"d say. I think it"s a very good second car for the weekend or whenever you want to go annoy the neighbours! 😁
A couple of points, the stiffness of controls will ease as the mileage goes up, and mpg should be 40 plus unless your giving it the "beans".......Short shifting is a good way of improving as is block changing.i have a similar engine in my Delta (140 hp), and can get up to 50 mpg.... As far as the roof is concerned, the last part of closing is manual so you can set the open gap to your own personal requirement......just a thought.....Great video ,well done.
Nice review Tish, like your honesty. A lot if things you don't notice as much when on just a test drive, only things you would find out with having for a longer period of time. This will be very useful for those considering buying one.
Hi Tish I have had 2 both Comps and when i sold them one in 2016 and 2018 you do actually miss them ,the personality and cheeky little looks/exhaust there's not much that can match them , yes its not perfect Abarth`s were never meant for that , they are to put a smile on your face everyday even when you feel down . There`s not many cheeky little cars can do that .Enjoy :)
Sport mode is a must, what I did notice is that the Abarth Turismo they sent you is a pre refresh (March 2021) not a massive difference but the new seats are diamond stitch and the sport mode is now Scorpion mode. Perhaps this is why you got such a great deal.
That is VERY interesting. I didn’t know that. Thank you for pointing it out. Yes I imagine SOGO brought out the pre-gens before the facelift at a low price!
Good honest and informative review. I think that to be a fan of these cars you really have to understand them, the problems/niggles pointed out are all founded (especially the seating position)and all of which are inherited from the Fiat 500. The difference is that the Fiat 500 gets away with it , maybe due to the fact that the 500 is after all a relatively cheap , charming little run around but due to the massive price increase of the 595 Abarth (compared with the Fiat 500) these niggles are questioned. My thoughts are this - the additional money that you pay for an Abarth vs a Fiat 500 is basically performance! All the extra cost goes on performance parts , Engine, Turbo, suspension, breaks, wheels, exhaust and so on. Fiat/Abarth haven’t invested in changing the refinement, I can except that because the Abarth makes up for it all with its character and fun factor. To me it feels like a hot hatch straight out of the 1980s or 90s and I love that retro style.
Awesome review Tish! I agree with every positive & negative aspects of this Abarth! It does seem cheap and tacky inside with some of the components, such as the gear lever. In my opinion, its slightly underwhelming! But packs a punch with its dynamic and eye-catching speed! Overall, fantastic to watch! Keep up the terrific hard work! I'll be eagerly awaiting the next episode dropping! 🙌🏻👏🏻👍🏻
What a great shame that most of the video was a complaint. Easy to get 40 MPG even driven hard, watch the video and you will see the unburned fuel pouring from the exhaust! Try changing gear at the right time! Being a man I have not used the make up mirror but I can see how that may be awkward. I agree about cruise control, it should be standard in a car like this. Mine is the hard top so that probably also adds to my MPG. Soft top open = tons of extra drag. Fuel filler lock is daft as you say and again on a £20,000 car keyless entry would be better, but this car is all about driving.
Stephen I completely understand why you feel like that, maybe check out my Comp review of the car I’ve had a few months. There is a reason I was meant to change it after a few months and I now can’t part with it 😅😅😅
Pro tip, if its too big for the trunk just open the top and put the items in. also pro tip 2, you can detatch portion of the sun shade/mirror and adjust the angle :)
I used a very similar "some will love it, some will hate it" in my video review of the North American Fiat 500 back in 2011. In 2020, I bought a used North American 2015 Fiat 500 Abarth. This model has the turbocharged engine that delivers 160 HP with sport mode on, and 135 HP with sport mode off. Keeping the sport mode off in the city is preferable so that you don't take off like a rocket whenever the light goes green. The hatchback model will resolve most of the problems with the roof and the boot. No convertible of course, but you can still have a sunroof. I'm surprised the convertible's roof can be so wonky! The cheapness of the buttons doesn't really annoy me. What matters to me is that the car's interior is easy to clean especially during a typical Canadian winter. The car can become pretty messy! Surprisingly, the Abarth's OEM winter floor mats were less expensive and appear better built than the custom aftermarket mats I could find online. My Abarth has a modern digital dash but the older radio with the orange LED display and SiriusXM satellite radio. No problems with the screen, but no extra features. That's fine by me because I only listen to a single local radio station. I'm surprised your seat's height can't be adjusted. My Abarth has height adjustment, but only for the driver's seat. I also have no distance adjustment on my steering wheel just like yours, but by some miracle the wheel's already at the perfect distance for my driving style. Luck of the draw, I suppose. Are you using the recommended octane fuel as indicated in the owner's manual? The minimum "acceptable" octane fuel will give you low power and crappy mileage. The recommended octane fuel will work much better. Just like your Abarth, the stiffness of the ride was enough of a problem that I absolutely had to correct it. I swapped the stock shocks and struts with cheaper and softer KYB Excel-G shocks and struts. I kept the stock springs. The car's now much more comfortable and it still holds the road almost just as well! It can be a bit more bouncy, though. I love my little car! It gets me everywhere and it's so much fun!
Great video, Tish! I still think this car suits you very well; albeit with a lot of annoyances that you have to put up with. It’s like the old Defender for me - as I said in my overly corny comparison video, it’s horrible to drive, slow, uncomfortable, but that’s why I love it, because it’s flawed. Not something I’d own on a daily basis, but as a second, third or fourth car. Very interested to see what you’ll do with it, keep up the great work, and looking forward to another Abarth update!
As an owner of a 69 plate turismo(not cabrio) I concur with a few things you say, but not all... My mpg is much better and I do a mixture of short hops and longer drives on the motorway occasionally... The gearknob is aluminium, not plastic, so it should look better and feel better than you suggest.. Beware the gearknob on very hot or very cold days though if you have the car long enough... I like the exhaust note, the comp would drive me mad, and the harsher suspension wouldn't be for me either... And if you press the sport button, it doesn't change the exhaust note at all.. Just throttle response and steering.. They are very marmite cars I think, but they have a massively passionate following on social media despite all the misgivings and old platform and interior fittings.. Even today I was told how nice my car was, so abarth must be doing something right :)
Absolutely I already see an improvement in MPG from running it in. That's the thing, all these comments don't seem to put anyone off and I don't blame them! They're brilliant fun!
Hey Tish, your original 595 competitione review spurred me on to get one a few months ago, I now own one in adrenaline green 🙈. I average around 35mpg and I use sport mode 50 percent of the time so you getting 30 mpg seems strange considering the turismo has less bhp than the comp. My comp has no sun visor mirror which is so irritating, I have to lean over and use the rear view. The thing I hate are the tiny aircon vents, there's no position to have them so you feel it on your face 100 percent because the steering wheel partially blocks it. I really wish the exhaust was almost silent when out of sport mode, yes it sounds amazing when starting up but leaving for work before 7 and also going out late at night does make me paranoid sometimes. The thing I dont understand is the lack of electric folding mirrors, my previous car (fiat bravo sport) even had them... And my sisters scabby picaso does too 😂 🤷 oh and I really wish the bumper plastic was painted, even if it was matte black, it's definitely on my to-do list. Anyway lovely review as always😁 🇮🇹
Hi i have had the 145bhp Abarth mta And now have a Turismo 2022 year model mta on order even the basic Abarth 595 i had was quick and the upgrade to the new model i am looking forward to. I have had the semi auto dsg type gearboxes and a Skoda Fabia vrs dsg in the past and i just like the rawness of these little cars.
I enjoyed your review, what I get is an honest opinion of gripes that get blown away when you want fun!! Anyone thinking of acquiring this car will do well to listen to what you say but watch your smile when you let rip. Booked your track day yet? Thanks, and how about a vid of a good hoon?
I love this car, its a shame I can't afford it as a CBU, as in India, this car is no longer on sale. This is a perfect urban commuter, but with a character. And a Manual transmission is a delight
Good honest review 👍 i can't believe there is no height adjustment and no reach adjustment on a car made to have fun in! deal breaker for me in any car never mind a sporty one!
I drive the hard top 595 Turismo and I enjoyed this review. The criticisms and niggles are common to all reviews of the Abarth but, as Tish points out, the flaws are part of its character and it’s a very subjective drive. Personally, I love it to bits and enjoy driving it immensely. It never fails to put a smile on my face and, I suppose, that’s the reason for having one. Is any car ‘perfect’?
Great video Tish. If the car puts a smile on your face on a London commute....well I think that is a thumbs up for fiat.!! I drove an Alfa for some years and it too had issues but I still loved it. 😁😁
Once the vehicle has run in, the fuel figures will improve, but with the roof down, it will use more, Fiat gearboxes have always been notchy, Fiat build better cars than they did years ago, they are a lot more reliable, Fiat electrics have always left something to be desired
Yes absolutely and it will be interesting to see that happening. I do feel like I’m at the Petrol station a lot at the moment so will be good to monitor it. Despite some of the cheaper materials, it does all feel solid
Tish yep such a lovely rear end but enough of that back to the car such an Honest eye opening review and for the money it would cost to buy i would be very disappointed at what I would consider a basic car ie no cruise etc would love to know how much it would depreciated over a year I agree a fun drive but not enough to make me buy one loved the content of the video well done
Although it isn’t completely unlike a lot of cars in this class. The Up GTI has a similar spec. I just think for what I need from a car, it’s a little lacking. Thank you for watching!
You do know I am a car 'reviewer' right? It's my job. It would just be nice to be able to start the car quieter when starting the car in the mornings in a residential area.... I'm a good neighbour
i had a 2020 comp until recemtly, and it spent most of its time in sport mode. i was getting mid 30s to a gallon. only did 5000 miles in it, because all the issues were starting to get on my wick too much. monza exhaust went rusty, brakes would constantly squeak and up to a month before i sold it, the engine would sometimes stall on its own. shame, because the car overall was a hoot to drive. yes very dated and theyre way overrpriced for what they are. shame.
Great second car (ensure to take the Cabrio version; I know it isn't a real one but it is good enough). Have it for 4 year now. Took it last weekend to the "Champagne" area in the North of France. Unforgetable experience. Hope to keep this one forever; you know... when we all have to drive electric... still having one of these in the garage... that will do...
@@AutoSocialUK oh by the way... probably that awkward - keep your finger on the button - roof top closing is probably setup like that for safety reasons (or a cheap way preventing the installation for any kind of resistance sensor). Probably also the reason you cannot close with a key as well.
Can anyone who’s owned one for some time be able to give a rough estimation of the fuel economy range in normal vs sports mode? I’m reading some people never take it out of sport mode, others only use the button for having a bit of fun here and there, but what MPG would you get if you drove continuously on the same mode?
I get around 40-44mpg overall which is usually driven in ‘normal’ mode with occasional use of ‘sport’ mode. I guess the small 35l fuel tank doesn’t help.
I think that I’ll stick with my BMW 125D M Sport (2015 vintage) cheaper tax, 6.5 to 60 and 150 mph , it’s only got 60k miles on it so only just run in. I looked at one but I just couldn’t get comfortable in it, I like my seat low and drive arms fairly straight with thumbs on the spokes of the wheel which is impossible in the Fiat.
This one made me laugh. As I motor trader I find bug bears for fun. . Mostly live with them if driving position and comfort seat bob on. Once seat uncomfortable. Game over. Had a trade Yamaha Editioin Dec. Drive twice. Actually prefer the base slow 1.2 Lounge but did love the noise.
Looks wise Tish it seems to suite you well but obviously your driving it day in day out and know whether it’s for you or not. It’s like back in 2005 I was 18 I had a New Citroen C3 1.6i 16v Exclusive SensoDrive I got called Grandad for having it but I loved it.
You do complain about seating position adjustment (or lack of it) and yet you don't even adjust what's possible in the correct ergonomic way. The seat is leaning back way too much and / or the seat is too far from the steering wheel. You find yourself holding on to the wheel on the bottom... That's also why you can't reach the screen.
The convertible roof last foot or so is not automatic because of the safety freaks. it can't be automatic in case someone traps their hand in it! annoys me too on ours, but you get used to it. Try the voice control to use the stereo/nav. it does work OK albeit a bit "italian" ie clunky 😂
The i20 N is going to be the car of choice to have over this any many others.... The mirror is over like that to try and stop the driver sitting in traffic messing around with Makeup Or while their driving so there is a valid reason
Yer it isn’t the most leisurely. Mini will feel more secure, higher quality and a bit quicker but likely more on fuel and quite a bit more expensive new! You get what you pay for for sure
Hello can someone help me thinking of getting a 595 2016 blue convertible with a roof like this. Do you have to maintain the roof then ? What happens if it rains or you wash it doesn’t it go mouldy and damp on the inside and eventually green etc I’m slightly worried now thanks Also what about the standard 595 does that sound still as good and pops and bangs etc or is it just the turismo and also what’s the difference in performance between the turismo and standard 595 thanks
Fabric roofs can be tricky but as long as you do not park it under trees you'll be fine! All 595's sounds good but the Truismo and Comp get more exhausts. I believe the standard is 145 and the Truismo is 165.... comp 185
That was one of my biggest annoying things it will let me know I've got 400 miles in the tank it will let me know I've got 300 miles in the tank, well I obviously know that because I've got almost a full but when I really need to know I've got 30 miles or 25 miles left it won't bloody tell me, it just reads no petrol once again poor quality ☹️
I brought one of these for my girlfriend omg it's terrible everything fell apart the quality is so bad the ride is bloody awful it was a year old when we brought and 6-months later couldn't wait to see it go nothing but trouble. So I brought her a mini John cooper works (I've had minis for years) really good quality as it's a bmw product and my girlfriend absolutely loves it,, if you're thinking about a fiat abarth don't get one,, go and get a mini jcw
I guess the mpg is so low because half the fuel is spent out of the exhaust lol. Fun car. Considering it but hell current fuel prices that will only go up really worry me and wondering whether I shouldn't aim for a bit more toned down more economic car.
Can't see you keeping it long with all the niggles, bet you're glad you didn't get it on an ordinary finance agreement. Had the same problem with my Suzuki Swift Sport, great fun to drive but I needed more comfort at my age so it had to go.
I like your down to earth approach and your career in presenting would be enhanced a lot if you pronounce your g’s . I train presenters for TV and it is the one bugbear that directors have , lazy English ,…… so please do try as you have a lot of potential.
Never switch off sports mode, better mileage, better steering. None of your annoyances have ever annoyed me but we are all different.
Ok - I will give it a go! Thank you!
I think this was a very balanced view.... The one thing to remember when anyone buys an Abarth is not to expect a perfect car, but expect a fun car and you will not be disappointed.
Spot on. Thanks for watching Chris!
I collected my Abarth this week, and had it on a 170 mile round road trip up to and around the Scottish Borders country roads. It’s fun to drive and goes like a rocket. I love it to bits.
The only downsides are minor and things you can put up with - door and boot handles feel a bit flimsy, the fuel cap mechanism is just stupid, and it does attract more attention from kids in Clios and Fiestas who think you constantly want to race them
I just got mine on Monday. 🙌 I LOVE it so much. It's so easy to drive, so fun. I drive around with a huge grin on my face all the time 😁. I know the neighborhood will hate me but it's me who's having all the fun 😈😁. Those 165 fillies under the hood are the most fun I've ever had behind the wheel.
Congratulations on your new cars and I'm SO glad you're both enjoying them!
@@AutoSocialUK thank you, and thank you for your honest review. It's rare. I agree with you on almost everything. I love the Abarth but it's not for everyone and knowing its particularity will make sure people will go buy one knowing what to expect and not get disappointed in the baby racing car 😉.
@@AutoSocialUK Many thanks Auto i still have not got my car due to delays but think i may have it soon i like your tests .
I've just had mine for a month. Just makes me appreciate the skill in design and engineering to make this tiny wee car such an adorable angry mini beast. I LOVE IT 😍
On a positive note it's nice to see a young lady that's not in a forgettable SUV.
Hahahaha it is nice to be in a noisy petrol!
Keep at these genuine reviews because although it might take a year or two once the internet notices you your channel will fly as you definitely bring something unique to the party
Haha I agree with this completely. The exhaust is very loud all the time and the suspension is very hard for everyday driving. But it’s good fun and has great styling. Great honest review! 😊
I really appreciate the *honesty* of your reviews, Tish… You say exactly what you think of every car, and the pluses and minuses that you have personally experienced (including the quirkily pleasant surprises or the seemingly minor but nonetheless genuinely frustrating niggles, that so many motoring journalists completely overlook). 👍 You also review a very interesting and varied mix of cars, and appear to drive them long enough to give an informed *driving and ownership* focused perspective, rather than merely reeling off a bland, sterile set of vehicle performance statistics that rarely convey the practical aspects of owning and driving the car. The growing confidence of your reviews and the impressive quality of your video presentations really makes your channel shine, and I applaud you for the painstaking amount of time and effort that you obviously expend, in order to provide your viewers with such quality….. It’s time and effort well spent, because I’m sure that you’re building up a steadily increasing number of loyal and appreciative subscribers because of it.
As I liked your video (and because you requested it from those who did) I really wanted to give you “A MASSIVE THUMBS UP.” Unfortunately, however, I couldn’t do that as - when I checked - it turns out that I don’t have a massive thumb… 🤔😉 So I gave you “a handsome and aesthetically proportioned thumbs up” instead….. I hope that’s sufficient. 😂👍
Thank you very much for your extremely kind comment, I really appreciate it
@@AutoSocialUK You’re very welcome. 🤝
I've owned a 2011 500 esse esse since new. Yes, 17 inch wheels are harsh on Wustralian roads, but owners of other brands, like BMW M3, also experience the same harshness. Fixed the problem by changing down to 16 inch wheels, made things much more comfortable. The exhaust is deliberately noisy, but many new owners fit even noisier aftermarket exhausts and get a "carpark crackle tune" to make more pos and crackles. Otherwise its just the most fun ever in a car.
Thank you for sharing our thoughts!
This is the most genuine honest review I've ever heard about an abarth 👍 to you
Thank you so much Dale! Was so worried it would just come across as me having a moan!
Have been quite fascinated with these cars especially since they are so affordable and offer good value for money…your review has made think twice..thanks
Do what I did 😄 get one from SOGO for a couple of months and then hand it back. You’ll either fall in love or get it out of your system 😂 I might try living with the comp soon!
Will do, but can’t find it in there. Either you may have taken the last one, or they ran out after demand went up after your initial reveal😂
Good review ! I have a Abarth 595 comp as a second car and I absolutely love it , a pocket rocket 🚀
Would make a better second car I think! Not suited to the 1,500 miles I am currently doing!
@@AutoSocialUK Yes definitely a second car 👍
I had 4 Abarths, not convertible, and I kind of agree with most of the gripes, especially the gap in the seat. I forgave most things because its an ageing design. Based on a city car, some could be better. Most things should be fixed by now, but they're not.
I got used to the driving position, although I doubt I'll go back, though. It is compromised in may ways, the biggest for us being its so tiny
If going for a factory order, go for a fixed roof with the sunroof, we did that, makes it much nicer inside.
The fuel consumption was around 32, seems worse because the tank is so tiny and the fuel light/range reading is bizarre, that exhaust encourages the revving!
I found the gearbox to be fine, I do agree that its a car you always have to "drive", you can't really relax, which is more tiring on longer journeys.
But, what fun!
Thank you so much for sharing Richard! Good to hear other owners agreeing with my opinions :)
While the Abarth is a very cool thing with loads of personality, you'd have to really, REALLY love the car to put up with it for a long period of time. Otherwise all the little quirks will drive you utterly insane. Italian flair, right? Maybe a liitle too much of it I"d say.
I think it"s a very good second car for the weekend or whenever you want to go annoy the neighbours! 😁
A couple of points, the stiffness of controls will ease as the mileage goes up, and mpg should be 40 plus unless your giving it the "beans".......Short shifting is a good way of improving as is block changing.i have a similar engine in my Delta (140 hp), and can get up to 50 mpg....
As far as the roof is concerned, the last part of closing is manual so you can set the open gap to your own personal requirement......just a thought.....Great video ,well done.
Absolutely, that's the thing, most the gripes do have reasoning behind them. Looking forward to seeing if the MPG goes up!
Nice review Tish, like your honesty. A lot if things you don't notice as much when on just a test drive, only things you would find out with having for a longer period of time. This will be very useful for those considering buying one.
Hi Tish I have had 2 both Comps and when i sold them one in 2016 and 2018 you do actually miss them ,the personality and cheeky little looks/exhaust there's not much that can match them , yes its not perfect Abarth`s were never meant for that , they are to put a smile on your face everyday even when you feel down . There`s not many cheeky little cars can do that .Enjoy :)
You know what Richard, I think you’re spot on and I think that I would miss the Abarth even after 1 month!
Sport mode is a must, what I did notice is that the Abarth Turismo they sent you is a pre refresh (March 2021) not a massive difference but the new seats are diamond stitch and the sport mode is now Scorpion mode. Perhaps this is why you got such a great deal.
That is VERY interesting. I didn’t know that. Thank you for pointing it out. Yes I imagine SOGO brought out the pre-gens before the facelift at a low price!
The Abarth is an Abarth, and you have to understand what Abarth is about, ie style, & timeless fun. What were you expecting.
Good honest and informative review. I think that to be a fan of these cars you really have to understand them, the problems/niggles pointed out are all founded (especially the seating position)and all of which are inherited from the Fiat 500. The difference is that the Fiat 500 gets away with it , maybe due to the fact that the 500 is after all a relatively cheap , charming little run around but due to the massive price increase of the 595 Abarth (compared with the Fiat 500) these niggles are questioned. My thoughts are this - the additional money that you pay for an Abarth vs a Fiat 500 is basically performance! All the extra cost goes on performance parts , Engine, Turbo, suspension, breaks, wheels, exhaust and so on. Fiat/Abarth haven’t invested in changing the refinement, I can except that because the Abarth makes up for it all with its character and fun factor. To me it feels like a hot hatch straight out of the 1980s or 90s and I love that retro style.
Absolutely! The complaints aren't really complaints :)
Don’t check the vanity mirror while driving!!!!
Awesome review Tish! I agree with every positive & negative aspects of this Abarth! It does seem cheap and tacky inside with some of the components, such as the gear lever. In my opinion, its slightly underwhelming! But packs a punch with its dynamic and eye-catching speed! Overall, fantastic to watch! Keep up the terrific hard work! I'll be eagerly awaiting the next episode dropping! 🙌🏻👏🏻👍🏻
What a great shame that most of the video was a complaint. Easy to get 40 MPG even driven hard, watch the video and you will see the unburned fuel pouring from the exhaust! Try changing gear at the right time! Being a man I have not used the make up mirror but I can see how that may be awkward. I agree about cruise control, it should be standard in a car like this. Mine is the hard top so that probably also adds to my MPG. Soft top open = tons of extra drag. Fuel filler lock is daft as you say and again on a £20,000 car keyless entry would be better, but this car is all about driving.
Stephen I completely understand why you feel like that, maybe check out my Comp review of the car I’ve had a few months. There is a reason I was meant to change it after a few months and I now can’t part with it 😅😅😅
Great video - cars like these are always great fun just not as practical or relaxing when you want it. Can't have it all ways though!
Agree completely we tried one and found all the same problems you did, so went for a Mini Cooper S instead
You get what you pay for! That's for sure!
Pro tip, if its too big for the trunk just open the top and put the items in. also pro tip 2, you can detatch portion of the sun shade/mirror and adjust the angle :)
I used a very similar "some will love it, some will hate it" in my video review of the North American Fiat 500 back in 2011.
In 2020, I bought a used North American 2015 Fiat 500 Abarth. This model has the turbocharged engine that delivers 160 HP with sport mode on, and 135 HP with sport mode off. Keeping the sport mode off in the city is preferable so that you don't take off like a rocket whenever the light goes green.
The hatchback model will resolve most of the problems with the roof and the boot. No convertible of course, but you can still have a sunroof. I'm surprised the convertible's roof can be so wonky!
The cheapness of the buttons doesn't really annoy me. What matters to me is that the car's interior is easy to clean especially during a typical Canadian winter. The car can become pretty messy! Surprisingly, the Abarth's OEM winter floor mats were less expensive and appear better built than the custom aftermarket mats I could find online.
My Abarth has a modern digital dash but the older radio with the orange LED display and SiriusXM satellite radio. No problems with the screen, but no extra features. That's fine by me because I only listen to a single local radio station.
I'm surprised your seat's height can't be adjusted. My Abarth has height adjustment, but only for the driver's seat.
I also have no distance adjustment on my steering wheel just like yours, but by some miracle the wheel's already at the perfect distance for my driving style. Luck of the draw, I suppose.
Are you using the recommended octane fuel as indicated in the owner's manual? The minimum "acceptable" octane fuel will give you low power and crappy mileage. The recommended octane fuel will work much better.
Just like your Abarth, the stiffness of the ride was enough of a problem that I absolutely had to correct it. I swapped the stock shocks and struts with cheaper and softer KYB Excel-G shocks and struts. I kept the stock springs. The car's now much more comfortable and it still holds the road almost just as well! It can be a bit more bouncy, though.
I love my little car! It gets me everywhere and it's so much fun!
Great video, Tish! I still think this car suits you very well; albeit with a lot of annoyances that you have to put up with. It’s like the old Defender for me - as I said in my overly corny comparison video, it’s horrible to drive, slow, uncomfortable, but that’s why I love it, because it’s flawed. Not something I’d own on a daily basis, but as a second, third or fourth car. Very interested to see what you’ll do with it, keep up the great work, and looking forward to another Abarth update!
What a fantastic review. Lovely young lady to watch too. Better than most of the presenters on television.
Thank you so much for your kind comments!
As an owner of a 69 plate turismo(not cabrio) I concur with a few things you say, but not all... My mpg is much better and I do a mixture of short hops and longer drives on the motorway occasionally...
The gearknob is aluminium, not plastic, so it should look better and feel better than you suggest.. Beware the gearknob on very hot or very cold days though if you have the car long enough...
I like the exhaust note, the comp would drive me mad, and the harsher suspension wouldn't be for me either... And if you press the sport button, it doesn't change the exhaust note at all.. Just throttle response and steering..
They are very marmite cars I think, but they have a massively passionate following on social media despite all the misgivings and old platform and interior fittings.. Even today I was told how nice my car was, so abarth must be doing something right :)
Absolutely I already see an improvement in MPG from running it in. That's the thing, all these comments don't seem to put anyone off and I don't blame them! They're brilliant fun!
The sport button also makes the "automatic" gearbox more responsive for those like me who were forced to go for that option it's really nice.
Hey Tish, your original 595 competitione review spurred me on to get one a few months ago, I now own one in adrenaline green 🙈. I average around 35mpg and I use sport mode 50 percent of the time so you getting 30 mpg seems strange considering the turismo has less bhp than the comp. My comp has no sun visor mirror which is so irritating, I have to lean over and use the rear view. The thing I hate are the tiny aircon vents, there's no position to have them so you feel it on your face 100 percent because the steering wheel partially blocks it. I really wish the exhaust was almost silent when out of sport mode, yes it sounds amazing when starting up but leaving for work before 7 and also going out late at night does make me paranoid sometimes. The thing I dont understand is the lack of electric folding mirrors, my previous car (fiat bravo sport) even had them... And my sisters scabby picaso does too 😂 🤷 oh and I really wish the bumper plastic was painted, even if it was matte black, it's definitely on my to-do list. Anyway lovely review as always😁 🇮🇹
Hi i have had the 145bhp Abarth mta And now have a Turismo 2022 year model mta on order even the basic Abarth 595 i had was quick and the upgrade to the new model i am looking forward to.
I have had the semi auto dsg type gearboxes and a Skoda Fabia vrs dsg in the past and i just like the rawness of these little cars.
I enjoyed your review, what I get is an honest opinion of gripes that get blown away when you want fun!! Anyone thinking of acquiring this car will do well to listen to what you say but watch your smile when you let rip. Booked your track day yet? Thanks, and how about a vid of a good hoon?
Thank you Kevin! Unfortunately I think as the car is on a lease, I can't really take it on track! :D
Great honest video, nicely presented. As others have said, this will help the channel fly. Keep up the great work.
thank you so much, that is very kind!
I love this car, its a shame I can't afford it as a CBU, as in India, this car is no longer on sale. This is a perfect urban commuter, but with a character. And a Manual transmission is a delight
I agree, not sure how much longer we will get them in the UK
Best Abarth review out there in my opinion. Thanks for sharing. Jan.
Thank you Jan, that’s very kind
Good honest review 👍 i can't believe there is no height adjustment and no reach adjustment on a car made to have fun in! deal breaker for me in any car never mind a sporty one!
Its the driving experience that counts . Roof open and floor it . And all the other things fade away
I drive the hard top 595 Turismo and I enjoyed this review. The criticisms and niggles are common to all reviews of the Abarth but, as Tish points out, the flaws are part of its character and it’s a very subjective drive. Personally, I love it to bits and enjoy driving it immensely. It never fails to put a smile on my face and, I suppose, that’s the reason for having one. Is any car ‘perfect’?
Great video Tish. If the car puts a smile on your face on a London commute....well I think that is a thumbs up for fiat.!! I drove an Alfa for some years and it too had issues but I still loved it. 😁😁
I would really like to try a modern Alfa!
@@AutoSocialUK you could try the Giulia, I think you'll appreciate it, both in looks and driving experience. On top of that it's reliable.
Having to hold in the roof button on its final stage may be its a safety feature to prevent for instance a child getting its head/throat caught?
Once the vehicle has run in, the fuel figures will improve, but with the roof down, it will use more, Fiat gearboxes have always been notchy, Fiat build better cars than they did years ago, they are a lot more reliable, Fiat electrics have always left something to be desired
Yes absolutely and it will be interesting to see that happening. I do feel like I’m at the Petrol station a lot at the moment so will be good to monitor it. Despite some of the cheaper materials, it does all feel solid
Tish yep such a lovely rear end but enough of that back to the car such an Honest eye opening review and for the money it would cost to buy i would be very disappointed at what I would consider a basic car ie no cruise etc would love to know how much it would depreciated over a year I agree a fun drive but not enough to make me buy one loved the content of the video well done
Although it isn’t completely unlike a lot of cars in this class. The Up GTI has a similar spec. I just think for what I need from a car, it’s a little lacking. Thank you for watching!
I genuinely can not believe you had complaints about the loud exhaust. You know this is an Abarth, right? You do know this is a sports car, right?
You do know I am a car 'reviewer' right? It's my job. It would just be nice to be able to start the car quieter when starting the car in the mornings in a residential area.... I'm a good neighbour
i had a 2020 comp until recemtly, and it spent most of its time in sport mode. i was getting mid 30s to a gallon. only did 5000 miles in it, because all the issues were starting to get on my wick too much. monza exhaust went rusty, brakes would constantly squeak and up to a month before i sold it, the engine would sometimes stall on its own. shame, because the car overall was a hoot to drive. yes very dated and theyre way overrpriced for what they are. shame.
Thank you for sharing your experience!
Great second car (ensure to take the Cabrio version; I know it isn't a real one but it is good enough). Have it for 4 year now. Took it last weekend to the "Champagne" area in the North of France. Unforgetable experience. Hope to keep this one forever; you know... when we all have to drive electric... still having one of these in the garage... that will do...
I have swapped this for a comp but would love to have a few more adventures with a cab! Thank you for sharing!
@@AutoSocialUK oh by the way... probably that awkward - keep your finger on the button - roof top closing is probably setup like that for safety reasons (or a cheap way preventing the installation for any kind of resistance sensor). Probably also the reason you cannot close with a key as well.
You're driving an Abarth for heaven's sake. It is supposed to be noisy. Lookup who Carlo Abarth was.
I mean..... I literally say that
great review tish i think your missing your vw up i would get a new vw up love watching
It was a great car!
The Abarth 595 is a relatively inexpensive way of looking seriously cool.
No
Sure is!
@@Roadwarrior92 It is a seriously cool car; don’t argue with that Ричи.
Can anyone who’s owned one for some time be able to give a rough estimation of the fuel economy range in normal vs sports mode? I’m reading some people never take it out of sport mode, others only use the button for having a bit of fun here and there, but what MPG would you get if you drove continuously on the same mode?
24 mpg, only sport mode and harsh driving
I get around 40-44mpg overall which is usually driven in ‘normal’ mode with occasional use of ‘sport’ mode. I guess the small 35l fuel tank doesn’t help.
Tish… one question I forget to ask, you reviewed a 145 in one of recent videos , in your opinion how much quicker was the Turismo vs the 145?
You could definitely feel an extra punch!
I think that I’ll stick with my BMW 125D M Sport (2015 vintage) cheaper tax, 6.5 to 60 and 150 mph , it’s only got 60k miles on it so only just run in. I looked at one but I just couldn’t get comfortable in it, I like my seat low and drive arms fairly straight with thumbs on the spokes of the wheel which is impossible in the Fiat.
Yet another great review 👍
Thank you Nathan!
@@AutoSocialUK your more than welcome
This one made me laugh. As I motor trader I find bug bears for fun. . Mostly live with them if driving position and comfort seat bob on. Once seat uncomfortable. Game over. Had a trade Yamaha Editioin Dec. Drive twice. Actually prefer the base slow 1.2 Lounge but did love the noise.
Looks wise Tish it seems to suite you well but obviously your driving it day in day out and know whether it’s for you or not. It’s like back in 2005 I was 18 I had a New Citroen C3 1.6i 16v Exclusive SensoDrive I got called Grandad for having it but I loved it.
Another great review 👍
Thank you Robert!
You do complain about seating position adjustment (or lack of it) and yet you don't even adjust what's possible in the correct ergonomic way. The seat is leaning back way too much and / or the seat is too far from the steering wheel. You find yourself holding on to the wheel on the bottom... That's also why you can't reach the screen.
Lovely big exhaust Trish
😅😅😅
The roof has a safety feature that is why the roof closes like that 😀
The convertible roof last foot or so is not automatic because of the safety freaks. it can't be automatic in case someone traps their hand in it! annoys me too on ours, but you get used to it. Try the voice control to use the stereo/nav. it does work OK albeit a bit "italian" ie clunky 😂
A daily driver to make you smile Tish 😃
That's what we want!
Nice review. But keep eye on fluid/oil leak by your driverside front wheel.....xx
Thanks for the tip! I don't actually park here most the time so i'll check all the cars!
I like the cold start of the F-Type R V8 previous generation.
I could not agree more!
The i20 N is going to be the car of choice to have over this any many others....
The mirror is over like that to try and stop the driver sitting in traffic messing around with Makeup
Or while their driving so there is a valid reason
I agree entirely with you.
Looks like a bit of a workout that car. Is a Mini Cooper better?
Expect the fuel consumption isn't great as it needs a few more miles on it.
Yer it isn’t the most leisurely. Mini will feel more secure, higher quality and a bit quicker but likely more on fuel and quite a bit more expensive new! You get what you pay for for sure
Was your usual consuption 9,5l/100km?
No car is perfect. You like the Abarth...buy one. If you don't, don't. I can't help but love em!
You can complain. It sounds too much and too hard in its suspension. You are sitting in a sports car, what do you expect.
At least they aren't boring. 😁
You should go trade that in and buy a Skoda and leave the Abarths to the people who actually appreciate them
I have and I’ve got an Up! GTi now thanks 👋🏼
Hello can someone help me thinking of getting a 595 2016 blue convertible with a roof like this. Do you have to maintain the roof then ? What happens if it rains or you wash it doesn’t it go mouldy and damp on the inside and eventually green etc I’m slightly worried now thanks
Also what about the standard 595 does that sound still as good and pops and bangs etc or is it just the turismo and also what’s the difference in performance between the turismo and standard 595 thanks
Fabric roofs can be tricky but as long as you do not park it under trees you'll be fine! All 595's sounds good but the Truismo and Comp get more exhausts. I believe the standard is 145 and the Truismo is 165.... comp 185
@@AutoSocialUK the standard is still decent though isn’t it ?
I like the sound
My fiat 500 had the seat gaps, phone ended up in the back all the time!
Seems like a lazy design to me!
I didn't like the fit of the boot size but I loved the fit of the..
... jeans👖
Boom 😂
That was one of my biggest annoying things it will let me know I've got 400 miles in the tank it will let me know I've got 300 miles in the tank, well I obviously know that because I've got almost a full but when I really need to know I've got 30 miles or 25 miles left it won't bloody tell me, it just reads no petrol once again poor quality ☹️
Then why you use a convertible if the roof is annoying
NO NO NO. The Exhaust noise makes the Abarth.
And the black Abarth cat !! Check your lipstick while your driving !
Tish tish ,it’s Italian the abarths are full of strange quirky quicks .
Absolutely!
You should test drive the Mazda MX 5 ND ;)
Fiat have changed the engine now its a GM same as in the vauxhalls it aint good 😢
There is no perfect car.This is a little car with character,Engines are good basically a small sporty drivers car.
I brought one of these for my girlfriend omg it's terrible everything fell apart the quality is so bad the ride is bloody awful it was a year old when we brought and 6-months later couldn't wait to see it go nothing but trouble. So I brought her a mini John cooper works (I've had minis for years) really good quality as it's a bmw product and my girlfriend absolutely loves it,, if you're thinking about a fiat abarth don't get one,, go and get a mini jcw
I drive an Abarth punto Evo Supersport from 2013 never had an issue...
The sunroof doesn't automatically close that last section so a child or stupid person can't as easily shut their neck/arm in it
I guess the mpg is so low because half the fuel is spent out of the exhaust lol. Fun car. Considering it but hell current fuel prices that will only go up really worry me and wondering whether I shouldn't aim for a bit more toned down more economic car.
Poor girl.
Can't see you keeping it long with all the niggles, bet you're glad you didn't get it on an ordinary finance agreement.
Had the same problem with my Suzuki Swift Sport, great fun to drive but I needed more comfort at my age so it had to go.
I think you're right....
Why did you buy a abarth?
She does not understand this car drive slow in a sportscar , do you drive fast in a old mans car Toyota?
At the end of the day it’s just a cheap dressed up Fiat, cheap feel and penny pinching come as standard. Not worth the premium money
Yep I think that’s fair enough although, compared to other cars on the market they are quite affordable
Great review but there are a few things you got wrong. I review cars so I can help you out if you are keen.
Arrrr barf, sounds like a sick pirate...
✌️😎💗
Then don't keep it I love mine
Did somebody say PCP??
No 😂 I literally explain the exact payment plan and lender in the video.
@@AutoSocialUK sorry, you must have distracted me 😆
Abarth
Is sub zero (super super cool).
No cruise control no thank you.
I do miss that a little
@@AutoSocialUK any idea what you may go for next if you hand this back
You are still mispronouncing ABARTH........It is pronounced "Abart "(the H is silent).....
I’m not Italian, so I’ll pronounce it this way thank you 😊
I like your down to earth approach and your career in presenting would be enhanced a lot if you pronounce your g’s . I train presenters for TV and it is the one bugbear that directors have , lazy English ,…… so please do try as you have a lot of potential.
I am getting there, I have worked on a lot. G's next! hahaha
Were you driving barefoot
No I'm not