http://wot.motortrend.com/ecco-first...ed-130447.html

That Fiat’s sporty 500 Abarth was destined for our market was no surprise. That said, Chrysler did publish the first official press photos of the U.S.-spec 2012 500 Abarth this morning, while confirming (yet again) that the car will formally debut at the 2011 Los Angeles autoshow on November 16th. Developed by Fiat’s long-time in-house tuning brand, the Abarth 500 injects the little Cinquecinto with additional power and some sporting flair. Abarth models receive a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inchwheels, and a muscular stance courtesy of flared wheel wells and a blistered front clip. Apart from new reflectors placed on the edges of the wheel wells, American models appear to be almost visually identical to their European cousins.
Beneath the skin, the 500’s 1.4-liter I-4 remains in place, although it’s blessed with a turbocharger in Abarth guise. In Europe, this turbocharged four is able to produce 135 hp and 152 lb-ft of torque – small figures, perhaps, but perfect for hustling the 500’s lithe frame around. European customers desiring additional power can always spring for the Esseesse package, which cranks output up to a crazy 160 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque.
As for the U.S. cars? Chrysler confirmed Abarths destined for our market will continue to employ the turbocharged 1.4-liter MultiAir engine, but the automaker has yet to disclose specifications for the U.S.-spec vehicle (representatives do, however, tell us the North American Abarth will “remain very true to the spirit of the original European car”). Likewise, the Esseesse package is also unconfirmed for our market at this time.
Expect further details on the Americanized Abarth to roll out closer to the 2012 500 Abarth’s debut in Los Angeles.

 

I want one so bad!! but it will cost soooo much

 

Since base 500 is $15,500, this one shouldn't cost more than $20,000-$21,000.

I wouldn't pay that much, I think 500 costs at least $3,000 more than in should.

 

LOVE this car.
would love to see what other colors/combos will be offered.

 

I want one soooo bad!

 

Oh God I want one too! I am so excited this car made it to the states.

 

I guess I'm the oddball. I hate tiny cars...they're just stupid and worthless. I'm suprised to see that so many of you have taken a liking to this one...

 

I don't see the allure of this car lol, am I missing something?

 

Fugly. Looks like a cartoon character with a sloped head.

Are all of Fiat's designs going to be like this?

 

In Europe Fiat 500 is one of those cars that you drive not because you can't afford something bigger, but simply because it's a cool car.
I don't think Americans will ever understand what makes cars like Fiat 500 and Alfa Romeo so special (just like Europeans will never understand what makes muscle cars so special).

 

the base pop model is $15,000 and the sport model is $19,500 and the prima was around $20,000. You can option the sport to about $25,000. I am going to bet on $28,000-34,000 for pricing on this car.

I know eveyone will say no way but that my bet and I am pretty good at guessing these things. But in the end only time will tell.

 

Yea I definitely will never understand lol, I mean look at it.

 

When I see a picture of this car I think of Barbie. She had the 99 purple mustang convertible and now she has the Fiat 500!