After making its public debut late last year, the Fiat 124 Spider has officially arrived in the US. The first batch of cars, in fact, has rolled into the Port of San Diego and the Port of Baltimore. Close to 50 years after the original 124 was introduced, Fiat has launched this new compact rear-wheel drive convertible with prices starting at $24,995 (Rs 16.79 lakh).
The new 124 Spider takes inspiration from the original model in looks and detailing. In profile, it’s a classic roadster, with its long wheelbase, a cockpit hunkered low near the rear axle and a long bonnet. Inside, all variants come with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a six-speaker audio system and push-button start. In addition, higher-spec variants get a 7-inch infotainment system, heated seats and piano black trim.
Under the 124 Spider’s long bonnet sits a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with up to around 160hp. Power goes to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox and compact rear differential. Fiat is also offering an automatic gearbox with the 124 Spider.
Now that its officially launched, the Fiat 124 Spider competes with other performance-focused two-door models like Mazda Miata and the Subaru BRZ in the US.
