Why the Abarth 600e is the wildest hot hatch on sale
Fiat's Abarth performance division has unveiled its most powerful car yet, but how does it drive?
Watch our full Abarth 600e review above
Abarth launched its new 600e performance EV in 2024, and it promised great things.
The Abarth 600e is the Italian performance company's first SUV and its second all-electric model after the Abarth 500e.
Based on the Fiat 600e, this new model goes head-to-head with the CUPRA Born EV, aided by its Formula E-derived tyres and snazzy limited-slip differential.
What you need to know about the Abarth 600e
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Pictured above is the full-fat Scorpionissima launch edition – finished in Hypnotic Purple – that's limited to just 1,949 units, making it rarer than most Ferrari supercars.
This trim gets a more aggressive look, with a large rear wing and revised front bumper to complete its sporty race car-like stance.
It may be an SUV, but Abarth has maintained the 600e's hot hatch driving style by sending all 240hp to the front wheels, which makes it the most powerful car it has ever produced.
To help put the power down, Abarth worked with Hankook – the Formula E tyre supplier – to create sticky rubber that "ensures maximum grip and guarantees excellent racing dynamics in all kinds of conditions.” They also help the car's overall electric range.
Abarth has also confirmed it has a limited-slip differential that will help prevent wheelspin around corners.
Sam Sheehan, our motoring editor, said: "Abarth isn't letting the switch from turbo to electric power harm its image. In fact, when it comes to this 600e – which, we should remember, is based on a family-friendly, sensible crossover base – Abarth is making full use of additional punch offered by electric tech."
Price, battery and range of the Abarth 600e
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The Abarth 600e Turismo uses the same battery as in the standard Fiat version, which has a total capacity of 54kWh that's good for around 207 miles on a single charge, benefitting from up to 100kW fast charging.
However, the hot Scorpionissima version will likely get fewer miles due to its better performance setup.
Prices start at around £37,000, which puts the 600e up against the MG4 XPOWER and slightly more expensive Alfa Romeo Junior.
The range-topping Scorpionissima, however, is priced from just under £42,000.
Considering the performance upgrade over its Abarth 500e sibling's £29,975 starting price, this isn't half bad.