Fiat will offer an optional six-speed automatic transmission on the3 2015 Fiat 500 Abarth, 500 Abarth Cabrio and 500 Turbo models in the U.S. as an alternative to the standard five-speed manual gearbox. The refreshed 2015 Fiat 500 lineup, which also features interior updates, will debut at the New York Auto Show later this month,
The Aisin AW6F25 six-speed automatic transmission has been reinforced with more clutch plates and a more robust heat treatment to allow for higher torque capability to cope with the 500 Abarth’s high-performance credentials.
It also offers a Sport mode calibration that includes special features such as fuel-cut upshifts, rev-matching downshifts, brake-assist downshifts, corner gear hold and fast-off gear hold, as well as a more aggressive pedal setting. The 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine remains unchanged for the 2015 model year.
“Adding an optional automatic transmission makes the Abarth and Abarth Cabrio accessible to an entirely new group of customers who want to enjoy the thrilling driving experience of the Fiat 500 Abarth with the convenience of an automatic gearbox,” said Jason Stoicevich, head of Fiat Brand for North America.
In addition to the optional automatic transmission offering for the 2015 Fiat 500 Abarth and Turbo models, the entire Fiat 500 lineup will receive interior updates for 2015, including a revised instrument panel with a 7-inch high-definition display. Other updates include a redesigned center console that features a new cup holder design and an additional USB port that is fully functional and integrated with the radio. The 2015 Fiat 500 models will also include Bluetooth streaming audio in addition to the already standard Bluetooth phone connectivity.
By Dan Mihalascu
PHOTO GALLERY
