The new Fiat 124 Spider made its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show and classic car fans got a dreamy look on their faces.
The original Fiat Spider was the center of attention in the '60s and '70s, and the two-door roadster returns this year with a bang. For automotive enthusiasts that are skeptical about Fiat reliability, you should know that both the power train and engine are manufactured by Mazda. What this means is that the Spider works like a Miata but looks like a Fiat.
If Mazda Miata MX-5's engines were the 1.5 and 2-liter petrol, the recently unveiled Fiat 124 packs a 1.4-liter MultiAir engine which is turbocharged. The MultiAir provides 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, making the car suited for both open road and circuit spins.
FIAT Brand, FCA-Global's head Olivier Francois noted that the Spider 124 comes at a right time to celebrate 50 years since the first Fiat roadster saw the streets. He further pointed out that a good synergy between Italian design and contemporary technology makes the 124 Spider even better.
"The 124 Spider expands the FIAT family, bringing to market yet another head-turning, fun-to-drive vehicle for our customers," Francois declared at the American auto show.
Drivers who invest in the new Fiat 124 Spider get the sporty back-wheels drive and a manual or automated six-speed transmission. Improved suspension grants better handling during breaks and turns, and the revamped windscreen shape guarantees a great roadster experience.
The interior is another place where the lavish design meets tomorrow's tech. The seven-inch touchscreen lets the driver gain info about the car and the various functions, such as the audio system. The 124 Spider has safety and comfort-ensuring features such as reversing camera, adaptive headlamps, blind-spot monitoring or rear traffic alert.
Added value will come to the first 124 units of the 124 Spider that will sell in the United States. These VIP models will get individual numbers, limited edition dynamic blue mica painting, and saddle leather seats. They are the Fiat 124 Spider Prima Edizione. The rest of Fiat fans will be able to buy the roadster in Lusso edition or can stick with the Classic trim level.
The automaker announced that the new Fiat 124 Spider will arrive in North America next summer, but made no comment about the price.
