TURIN, Italy — Fiat upgrades the Grande Punto Abarth SS for 2009 and will have the vehicle on its stand at the upcoming 2009 Geneva Auto Show.
This hot Fiat hatch gets the same 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder as in the 500 Abarth SS and the last Grande Punto with Abarth treatment. The engine makes 180 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque and manages to get to 60 mph in less than 7.5 seconds. Top speed is clocked at 133 mph.
The coolest addition to the 2009 model is the dual-mode exhaust system that opens a valve above 4,000 rpm to reduce backpressure and help enhance the hatch's exhaust note.
Performance modifications are aplenty with a lowered suspension, cross-drilled brake discs and 18-inch alloy wheels. The exterior is enhanced with a gray paint job that contrasts with the red of the Abarth logo and other accents.
The tuned three-door also comes with a satellite navigation system and a set of Sabelt racing seats.
Inside Line says: Cars like the sporty Abarth SS are the reason many Europeans are crazy about hatches. — Mike Lysaght, Correspondent
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