Abarth 500e Review: Mean Design, Upgraded Interior, and City-Friendly Driving Experience

The Abarth 500e, the subject of this Seen Through Glass video, is a car that's got me all hot and bothered. It's an electric vehicle that promises to bring the Abarth experience to the world of EVs. Now, normally I'm not one for the silent whir of electric motors, but this little Italian pocket rocket has managed to catch my attention.

Let's start with the design. Abarth has taken the already pretty Fiat 500 and injected it with steroids, giving it a mean and aggressive look that demands attention. It's like a little Italian Pitbull, ready to pounce on the streets. And let me tell you, it works. Everywhere the host goes, people are stopping and asking about the car. It's got that kind of presence.

Inside, the Abarth 500e continues to impress. The interior is a significant improvement over previous Abarth models, with a premium feel and plenty of storage options. The added Abarth trim, with its Alcantara and alternative stitching, adds a touch of class. And let's not forget the tech. This little beast comes with JBL speakers, wireless Apple CarPlay, and a panoramic roof that floods the cabin with light. It's a nice place to be.

Now, let's talk about the driving experience. In the city, the Abarth 500e is a joy to drive. It's quick off the line, making it easy to navigate through traffic. The ride is firm, but in a fun way. It's like a little go-kart, ready to zip through the streets. However, when you venture out onto the open road, things start to change. The car feels a bit frantic, like it's trying too hard to be an Abarth. It lacks that same level of excitement and engagement that you get from their combustion engine models. But perhaps that's not where the Abarth 500e is meant to shine. It's a small city car, designed for short trips and urban environments. And in that setting, it's great.

But here's the catch. The Abarth 500e comes with a hefty price tag. Starting at around £38,000, it's not a cheap option. And when you compare it to other EVs on the market, the value proposition starts to fade. There are plenty of other electric cars available at a lower cost, offering better range and similar performance. The depreciation on the Abarth 500e is also a concern, making it an expensive choice to finance. So while I'm smitten by the design and the overall experience, the high price and limited range make me think twice about making it my first EV.

Watch The NEW Abarth 500E! Could This Be My First EV? on Youtube

Viewer Reactions for The NEW Abarth 500E! Could This Be My First EV?

Noise generator should be louder during acceleration and quieter at speed
Hot hatches have potential to be cool EVs
Price of EVs is a major concern
Second-hand market for EVs is more appealing
Abarth 500e should be a standard city car
Noise generator is useful for pedestrian safety
Battery replacement and depreciation are concerns for used EVs
Engine sound generator should be a button, not in the menus
Price of Abarth 500e is too high
Wear on the steering wheel is a concern
Some people dislike EVs and prefer regular cars
EVs are seen as a solution by some and a nuisance by others
Range of Abarth 500e is limited
EVs don't need or want sound, soul of a car doesn't come from noise
Fake sound should have more choices
EVs depreciate quickly
No fun EV options currently available
Concerns about EVs being fake cars