Overview
The Abarth 600e represents a dramatic, performance-oriented evolution of the standard Fiat 600e crossover, positioning itself as a flagship electric hot hatch within the competitive B-segment. Built upon the specialized Perfo e-CMP architecture developed in tandem with Stellantis motorsport, it injects a highly aggressive personality into a traditionally sensible vehicle category. It targets driving enthusiasts who refuse to sacrifice everyday utility for electric performance.
Design
Abarth has transformed the profile of the standard Fiat crossover into an assertive, muscular hot hatch with substantial visual punch. The exterior design language features heavily revised, deep front and rear bumpers, a matte or glossy black body kit, and a prominent rear spoiler similar to historic racing Abarths. The wider stance is emphasized by tracks widened by 30mm at the front and 25mm at the rear, with striking 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and specialized tyres. Vivid paint options, paired with contrasting Acid Green brake calipers on top-tier models, further distinguish its high-performance intent from standard electric crossovers.
Interior
The cabin blends track-inspired elements with the function of a compact crossover. The driver is greeted by a chunky two-spoke sports steering wheel trimmed in Alcantara with a bold lime-green centerline indicator and matching contrast stitching across the dashboard. Top-tier editions enhance the racing theme with body-hugging Sabelt racing seats finished in Alcantara with integrated headrests that provide excellent lateral support in the corners, though they may feel restrictive for broader people. Technology is centered around a 10.25-inch infotainment screen and a digital driver display featuring bespoke Abarth performance graphics. While the tactile buttons are appropriately sporty, the lower portions of the cabin use some harder, scratchy plastics. An adjustable sound generator plays a synthetic, bassy combustion-like idle burble that scales up under acceleration, though it can be entirely deactivated.
Performance & Powertrains
The 600e utilizes a front-mounted electric motor powered by a 54kWh battery. The entry-level Turismo trim develops 240hp, enabling a 0-62mph sprint in 6.2 seconds, while the flagship Scorpionissima variant pushes output to 280hp and 345Nm of torque, dropping the 0-62mph time to 5.9 seconds. A mechanical Torsen limited-slip differential on the front axle actively manages power distribution to maximize mid-corner traction and mitigate understeer. It achieves a maximum range of up to 207 miles, which drops closer to 199 miles on performance-oriented tyres, translating to a real-world highway range of just 140 miles. Replenishing the battery from 0 to 80% takes roughly 27 minutes via a 100kW DC fast charger, while home charging takes around 8 hours for a full charge.
Practicality
Despite its hot-hatch driving dynamics, the 600e retains a five-door crossover with practical everyday utility. Front occupants enjoy generous adjustment and visibility, though the thick sports seats slightly reduce rear knee clearance. The second row provides adequate space for shorter journeys, but taller adults will find legroom an issue due to the compact wheelbase shared with other small Stellantis vehicles. Storage solutions include a smart 15-litre central tunnel compartment equipped with a folding magnetic pad cover, alongside door bins and a front central armrest. The boot offers a versatile 360-litre capacity with an adjustable dual-height boot floor and a 40/60 split-folding rear bench.
Buying
The Abarth 600e is available in two distinct specifications with pricing beginning at £36,975. The Scorpionissima variant commands a higher price of £39,875, introducing the maximum 280hp output, exclusive Sabelt seats, Alcantara appointments, a hands-free power tailgate, a 180-degree rear-view camera, and an expanded suite of Level 2 autonomous driving assists. The EV Hub Recommended Configuration is the Scorpionissima configuration with the full 280hp potential. However, the car as a whole isn't very compelling with better options like the Alpine A290 and Skoda Elroq vRS.