2017 Fiat 124 Spider Revealed in L.A.
Yet another classic nameplate has been revived, and this time, it’s on a new roadster that will turn up in Fiat studios in the summer of 2016.
The original Fiat 124 Sport Spider was introduced way back in 1966, and was built with various names right up until 1985. However, in a joint collaboration with Japanese automaker Mazda, the 124 Spider has been revived using the platform and components lifted from the MX-5.
The two-seater 2017 Fiat 124 Spider has its own powertrain, though. A turbocharged, 1.4L four-cylinder engine will be fitted under the hood, where it develops 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. According to FCA, it’s the first time the turbo 1.4 has been used in a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. Six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions will be offered.
The roadster will also be equipped with a double-wishbone front and four-link rear suspension setup and electric-assist power steering. Its soft top will be raised and lowered manually, just like the MX-5’s.
The 124 Spider boasts a different look than the Mazda, sharing no body panels. However, the windshield and its frame should likely be the same. The Fiat sports a longer snout and a dimpled hood for an overall elegant look, while borrowing styling cues from the original car such as the grille pattern and horizontal taillights.
Two trim levels will be offered on 2017 Fiat 124 Spider, Classica and Lusso, in addition to eight paint colours. Available features will include adaptive headlights, a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, a Fiat Connect infotainment system with seven-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, an intelligent key system and a nine-speaker Bose stereo.
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