Abarth 600e: The electric sting is in place
With the 600e, Fiat's sports brand Abarth now also has an electric car suitable for families. The powerful electric crossover is particularly appealing in terms of its looks and handling.
The five-seater, family-friendly Fiat 600 crossover has now also been stung by the scorpion and is the second electric Abarth to be launched in Switzerland. Available in two power levels, the Abarth 600e offers 174 kW/240 hp as a Turismo or 207 kW/280 hp as a limited Scorpionissima edition. This special edition, limited to 1949 units and thus commemorating the founding year of the Italian brand, is also available in the exclusive color "Hypnotic Purple". The color, which takes on a different shade of purple depending on the sunlight, is intended to have an almost hypnotic effect, just like the countless scorpions on the wheel hub, in the rear spoiler, on the front and rear aprons and also in the interior.
Because even if the look with the athletic exterior and the sporty handling thanks to the low center of gravity and a mechanical Torsen limited slip differential fit, they cannot hide the rapidly dwindling e-range, especially with a dynamic driving style predestined for this vehicle. The up to 321 kilometers according to the WLTP combined cycle are simply wishful thinking in everyday life. On the plus side, you have more time to admire the new Scorpio and its details at the charging station (DC charging is possible up to 100 kW) or to let yourself be admired. The Sabelt racing seats made of Alcantara with integrated headrest and recesses in the back or the steering wheel with leather and Alcantara inserts are really successful.
On the road with three driving modes
With its 205 kW/280 hp electric motor, the most powerful Abarth to date accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.85 seconds (Turismo: 6.24 seconds). Both versions are equipped with three driving modes. When driving in "Turismo", acceleration is smoother, torque is limited to 300 Nm and the top speed to 150 km/h. In "Scorpion Street" there is 150 kW (Turismo) or 170 kW (Scorpionissima) power and 345 Nm, but the Abarth 600e's spine is pulled at 180 km/h and above. Scorpion Track" clearly offers the most fun thanks to a sportier steering and ESP setup. In addition, the full power of 280 hp and 345 Nm can be called up here - at last, one is almost tempted to say.
After all, anyone who treats themselves to an Italian Abarth for at least around 45,000 francs wants performance coupled with sportiness and dynamism. Which - as the test drives on the TCS circuit in Lignières NE showed - can also be brought to the asphalt thanks to good traction and excellent handling. And to ensure that the e-crossover can be kept safely under control, the brakes on the 600e, which were developed in collaboration with British specialist Alcon, are very powerful.
