CarGurus expert rating: 2 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.2%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.9 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 230
Average Price: Around £10,000

Abarth 595 (2012-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Strong performance	Unforgiving ride
Direct, involving handling	Cramped rear seats and boot
Soft-top option for wind-in-hair driving	Jerky automatic gearbox

Quick Summary

The Abarth 595 is a fashionable and exciting hot hatch that takes the cute, funky looks of the Fiat 500 and adds a more potent turbocharged engine. Available in multiple versions, the current range comprises the 595 and 695, both powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine producing 163bhp and 178bhp respectively. The 595 is nimble with a gutsy engine that loves to be thrashed, delivering strong performance with the manual version hitting 62mph in 7.3 seconds and the 695 in 6.7 seconds. However, it isn't the most well-rounded hot hatch, with practicality compromised by cramped rear seats and a modest 185-litre boot.

The Abarth 595 prioritises style and fun over everyday usability. Ride quality is unforgiving, even on milder versions, whilst all models are quite noisy, making them less suitable for daily driving. Fuel economy is modest at around 40mpg for entry-level versions, dropping further for more potent models. Servicing intervals are more frequent than many rivals, and timing belt replacement is required every five years or 75,000 miles at a cost of £250–£300. For those seeking a more practical and comfortable hot hatch, alternatives like the Suzuki Swift Sport or Ford Fiesta ST offer superior everyday usability and value.

Best for: Drivers prioritising style and fun, those seeking an affordable hot hatch with character, and buyers who value direct, involving handling over practicality.

Not ideal for: Families with young children, those requiring spacious rear seats or a large boot, drivers who need a comfortable daily driver, or buyers seeking the best value for money.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the 595 if: You prioritise style and fun, seek an affordable hot hatch with character, and value direct, involving handling over practicality.

Consider alternatives if: You have young children, require spacious rear seats or a large boot, need a comfortable daily driver, or are seeking the best value for money.

Competitive Position: The Abarth 595 is a stylish and fun hot hatch that combines fashion with performance, but it isn't the most well-rounded option in its class. Whilst it delivers strong performance and direct handling, its unforgiving ride, cramped interior, and modest practicality make it less suitable for everyday use compared to rivals. The Ford Fiesta ST is superior on all counts, offering better handling, more space, and superior value. For those prioritising style and character over practicality, however, the 595 remains an engaging and affordable choice that stands out from the crowd.

Read our full Abarth 595 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.