New 500 Abarth takes to the road

This is the first photograph of the 500 Abarth - the racing model of the recently released Fiat 500 model.

The car, which will be unveiled at the Geneva Auto Show next month, was developed by the Fiat Group Automobiles Style Centre in the spirit of the original Fiat 500.

The production model is powered by a Fire 1.4 16v petrol turbo engine, which delivers a maximum of 135 bhp at 5,500 rpm, and peak torque of 206 Nm (152 lb.ft) at 3,000 rpm in 'Sport' mode.

However, in 'Normal' mode, torque is reduced to 180 Nm (132 lb.ft) at 2,500 rpm.

The new Abarth 500 also meets Euro 5 emissions limits, making it one of the cleanest cars on the road - and also in line for a 100 per cent discount on the London congestion charge.

The styling, while closely based on the Fiat version, optimises aerodynamic behaviour - reducing drag and increasing high speed stability.

Inside, the 500 features special instrumentation - with the addition of an analogue gauge to measure turbo pressure.

An LED telltale, which optimises gear changes by lighting up at the appropriate moment, is also incorporated.