Fiat 124 Spider Revealed: Think of It as the Miata's Italian Cousin
The Fiat 124 Spider has returned nearly 50 years after its original introduction.
Sharing its platform with the new Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Fiat 124 Spider will be powered by a 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo four-cylinder engine packing 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The powerplant is similar to what is used in other Fiat and Abarth models, but this marks the first time it has been incorporated into a rear-wheel drive application. Both six-speed manual and automatic transmissions will be available when the roadster arrives in North America in summer 2016.
To celebrate the launch of the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider, the first 124 vehicles will be offered as a limited-edition Prima Edizione Lusso. Each car will be individually numbered with a commemorative badge and available in an exclusive Azzurro Italia blue shade with premium leather seats in Saddle. Those that purchase the Fiat 124 Spider Prima Edizione Lusso will also receive limited-edition items including wearables and a poster.
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According to Fiat, the 124 Spider’s soft convertible top is easy to operate and requires minimal force, much like the original Spider’s top. In terms of suspension, Fiat has opted for a double-wishbone layout in front and a multi-link in the rear that has been specifically tuned for greater stability while braking and turning. The Fiat 124 Spider also features an electric power assist dual-pinion system, helping make steering light and responsive.
The convertible is also loaded with safety and technology features including adaptive front headlights, Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection and ParkView rear backup camera. Inside the cabin is the Fiat Connect 7.0 system with a seven-inch touchscreen display, multimedia control, Bluetooth connectivity, heated seats and Keyless Enter ‘n Go.
Expect pricing information on the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider to be announced closer to its launch next summer.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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The iPad on the dash is a result of our good old federal government requiring backup cameras on every car (a silly notion). In designing their dash's, Mazda admittedly took the less-expensive route of merely tacking the screen onto a dash without re-designing it at (likely) substantial cost. I blame the feds for Mazda's dash design.
Such GREAT news,, I used to race a 124 Coupe ,, had numerous 124 spiders/ a lot I modded for friends.. Abarth.. still got the catalog .. my Coupe had dual 40 downdraft Webers (had to remove Vac brake assist to fit), Mahle pistons , everything lightened and blueprinted, a 4 into 2 into 1 header.. a 12 lb flywheel. fixed diff. 12x13 3 piece aluminum wheels (yes 13inch wide) BIG bars f&r, and all the goodies required to race NSCC .. memories :)