Abarth 595 range gets racier update

The 595 receives some mild engine and styling changes, and gains some worthwhile extra features.

Design tweaks are based on the 500’s 2015 redesign, with the Fiat Abarth 595 employing the same new circular LED daytime running lights but adding visual aggression to the front end with larger air intakes.

At the rear, the 595 features a more prominent diffuser.

The range continues to comprise hatchback and cabriolet body styles, with three variants each offering varying levels of power from a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder.

The base 595 and mid-range 595 Turismo both get a 5kW power increase, respectively moving to 108kW and 118kW.

Abarth’s racier Competizione remains at 132kW but now offers the option of a mechanical limited-slip differential on the manual gearbox version to help put that power through the front wheels more efficiently.

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The special diff’ is part of a Performance Pack that also includes 17-inch Supersport wheel rims and Sabelt leather/Alcantara carbon-shell seats.

Dampers from specialists Koni also now feature on both the front and rear suspension of the Competizione, or just the rear of the Turismo that sits on new, lighter-weight 17-inch Granturismo alloys.

Additions to the 595 cabin includes more extensive use of carbonfibre and the suede-like Alcantara, a new flat-bottom sports steering wheel, and FiatChrysler’s Uconnect infotainment touchscreen system.

Uconnect comes with a standard 5-inch display or an optional 7-inch screen. The bigger system is required for Apple Carplay and Android Auto integration.

Fiat Australia has priced the current 595 from $27,500 for the single, 103kW version available. There’s a $4000 premium for the cabriolet variant.

Fiat’s local arm has yet to announce timing for the new-look 595, but expect a 2017 rather than 2016 arrival.