2017 Fiat 124 Spider | Consumer Guide Auto

2017 Fiat 124 Spider

Pros: Fun to drive; unique retro styling; affordable base model

Cons: Limited cargo room; tight cockpit for large occupants, especially with the top up

CG Says: Fiat introduces a sporty new two-seat roadster for 2017 that revives a name from the brand’s distant past. The 124 Spider shares its basic platform with Mazda’s MX-5 Miata (which was redesigned for 2016), but wears unique bodywork with styling cues inspired by the first Fiat 124 Spider introduced almost 50 years ago. In place of the MX-5 Miata’s 155-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, the 124 Spider uses a Fiat-built turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder with 160 horsepower; it can be paired with a 6-speed manual- or 6-speed automatic transmission. An Abarth model adds performance suspension and a limited-slip differential. Available interior features include navigation, heated seats, Bose sound system with headrest speakers, and keyless entry/access. Available safety features include blind-spot alert, cross-traffic alert, and rearview camera. Not everyone agrees that the new 124 Spider’s retro design cues translate well to the long-hood/short-deck proportions of the Miata chassis. However, if you like the styling, the 124 delivers distinctive Italian flair and a bit more horsepower to one of the best pure sports-car platforms on the market—all at prices that are competitive with the Miata or any other sporty-performance roadster.

The Facts

Class	Sporty/Performance Car
Body Style(s)	2-door convertible
Passenger Count	2
Drive Wheels	rear-wheel drive
Manufacturer	Fiat
Nation of Manufacture	Japan
Base Prices	Classica: $24,995 Lusso: $27,495 Abarth: $28,195