Dublin, Ireland, November 2011

Abarth To Make North American Debut in L.A.

Highlights:

  • Abarth to Debut at L.A. Auto Show in November and go on sale in early 2012
  • Powered by 1.4 MultiAir Turbo engine – outputs and performance to be confirmed
  • Unique Abarth style inside and out, plus uprated suspension, brakes, wheels, tyres
  • Abarth taps into growing pool of North American enthusiasts with European tastes

Press Release:

The Abarth name is to make its North American debut at the L.A. Motor Show on November 16th 2011. The Abarth version of the newly-launched FIAT 500 will tap into the every-increasing portion of North American enthusiasts who are becoming more European in their automotive tastes, wishing to combining exotic style and sharp handling with lower running costs and useable, everyday performance.

Abarthgoes a step further by offering many North American enthusiasts their first opportunity to put a truly exotic Italian thoroughbred on the driveway. The new hot hatch boasts the unrivalled pedigree, craftsmanship and advanced technologies - such as its new, 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo engine – one expects from an Italian brand but with the affordable price tag and absolute quality demanded by North American customers.

The new Abarth also benefits from uprated suspension and brake systems, race-inspired interior and exterior designsand many technological features not traditionally fitted to small car in North America – more details of which will be announced at the motor show.

Unlike Europe, where it is a standalone brand, “Abarth” will initially designate the performance version of the newly-launched FIAT 500 inNorth America. It will therefore be knownas the “FIAT 500 Abarth” and sold in FIAT showrooms in the U.S. and Canada from early 2012. More details will be announced at the L.A. Auto Show in mid-November.

- Ends –

Conor Twomey Marketing Communications Manager
Fiat●Alfa Romeo●Fiat Professional●Abarth●Jeep●Chrysler

Fiat Group Automobiles Ireland, Agnelli House, Naas Road, Dublin 12
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