Abarth 600e – ride and handling

A 140 per cent increase in anti-roll bar stiffness, 41 per cent increase in suspension stiffness and a 25mm reduction in ride height over the Fiat 600e all contribute to a marked improvement in dynamic ability, with excellent composure and front-end response making it an entertaining machine. Approach the 600e from the right angle and you can spot some aggressive front camber, contributing to that alert hot hatch character. 

There’s no denying there’s some weight to manage, with its 1640kg kerb weight 80kg more than the Junior Veloce’s and a whole 230kg more than the 500e, but while that does put the Abarth 9bhp/ton behind the identically powerful Junior, this isn’t something you’ll notice in the real world. On the tricky British B-roads we tested it on the 600e’s firm-but-fair chassis setup is well suited to handle momentary upsets without a fuss, allowing you to carry speed with ease.

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The Alcon-developed 380mm four-piston front brakes also help manage this weight, and while we would like more initial bite for added confidence, there’s plenty of stopping power available when you need it. What makes this system so special is that unlike some EVs, the most focused mode turns regenerative braking off entirely, meaning application of the brakes activates only the conventional hydraulic system. This makes for a noticeable improvement in pedal feel and predictability, removing that soft, spongy feel of regenerative braking to inspire greater confidence on a spirited drive. The pedal did begin to lengthen after back-to-back sessions on the circuit, but we can’t imagine many buyers will use a 600e in this way. 

A combination of bespoke Michelin Sport EV tyres (225-section front and rear) and uprated suspension help provide impressive lateral grip. Abarth says it can achieve over 1G at its peak, and we believe it, with the 600e composed and confidence-inspiring at speed. Back off the power mid-corner and it’s easy to induce predictable rotation, with the setup playful and adjustable on the throttle. 

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Ride is as firm as you’d expect from an Abarth, but even on Lincolnshire’s not-so-well paved roads, it never feels crashy. Hydraulic bump stops help improve ride at the limit, and while it’s certainly not the most cosseting of cars, it’s confident and compliant, with bumps dealt with quickly and concisely. While we’re yet to test them back-to-back, Abarth says it has the edge over its Alfa Junior relative in this department too, thanks to a thicker 19mm (versus 17mm in the Alfa) rear anti-roll bar for an increase in rear end stiffness – out on Ancaster karting circuit during the UK launch, lifting not one, but two wheels was a regular occurrence. 

Steering is also best in class, with well judged weighting and a good dose of feedback providing a great sense of front end connection. This also makes it considerably easier to gauge the effectiveness of that mechanical front differential, with it sending a meaningful kick through the wheel on power application as it brings the front in line. Unlike some conventional hot hatches, though, the 600e’s steering isn’t overly hyperactive, and instead finds a happy balance between strong response and everyday usability – cars like the Focus ST Edition stray too far towards the former, constantly fidgeting in your hands on the straight ahead.