2022 Abarth 595 and 695 hot hatches updated

• 143bhp engine dropped
• Available as hatchback or convertible
• Racing Style Pack available on 695 versions

The Abarth 595 and 695 have been given minor updates to keep them fresh for the 2022 model year. The line-up has been slightly simplified with the least powerful engine withdrawn, and new styling differences have been introduced. On sale now, the updated Abarth starts from £21,295.

Base 595 models now come with 163bhp, in line with the rest of the 595 range, which enables a 7.3-second 0-62mph time. All 695 models get a 178bhp version of the same engine, improving the acceleration figure by around half a second. Both the 595 and 695 are available in three trim levels, and every version can be ordered with a hard-top or fabric roof.

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The standard 595 features 16-inch alloy wheels, body-coloured door mirror caps, satin chrome interior trim, stainless steel pedals and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. A seven-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and DAB radio takes care of infotainment.

The 595 Turismo models are designed to feel more stylish, with bigger wheels, Turismo badging and chrome mirror caps. You also get sat-nav, leather upholstery and climate control. The motorsport-themed F595 variant is marked out by its sports exhaust with four stacked tailpipes, and you can increase the noise of the exhaust by pressing a button on the dashboard.

Moving up to the Abarth 695 brings uprated suspension, brakes and seats, and all models get the sports exhaust system. Inside, there’s more Alcantara suede than in the 595. The 695 is also available in Turismo spec, plus a range-topping Competition spec that “turns a basic model into a vehicle for expert drivers,” according to Abarth’. Its seats are backed in carbon fibre and it features titanium exhaust pipes. A mechanical limited-slip differential is standard, while a sequential automatic gearbox is among the options.

The Abarth 695 starts at £24,495, £500 more than the range-topping 595. It maxes out at £29,945, which is a lot of money for such a small car – not to mention one that has been on sale for well over a decade. Rivals include the Hyundai i20 N, Ford Fiesta ST and the MINI John Cooper Works.

Read our guides to the best cheap sports cars and best used hot hatchbacks.