Australia will receive the spicy Esseesse version of the Fiat Abarth 500 as standard when the new hot hatch arrives in the middle of March.
Compared to the regular Abarth 500, the Esseesse version boasts an output of 117kW/230Nm, an 18kW/24Nm bolstering. The Abarth 500 Esseesse also includes extra-low suspension, up-rated springs and cross-drilled disc brakes beneath larger, bespoke 17 x 7.0 inch alloy wheels.
This added performance sees the Abarth 500 Esseesse accelerate from standstill to 100km/h in just 7.4 seconds, and on to a top speed of 211km/h.
For all its performance, the pocket rocket still returns frugal combined cycle fuel consumption figures of 6.5L/100km.
"Blame the European performance car enthusiasts for the delay in the Abarth 500 arriving in Australia," says Abarth's Australian general manager, Andrei Zaitzev.
"Ever since it was launched Abarth has been unable to meet demand for the Abarth 500, thanks to the combination of the irresistible charm and character of the Fiat 500 combined with the outrageous performance delivered by the changes brought about by the engineers at Abarth, Fiat's high performance division.
"The delay, though, has provided one major advantage -- we will launch in March with the Abarth 500 Esseesse, the top version which can rocket to 100 kmh in just 7.4 seconds, making it the ultimate giant killer!"
Fiat will announce full specification details and pricing for the Abarth 500 Esseesse in early March.
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