Abarth 695 TURISMO  1,149 P.M • 0% Downpayment • Turismo C • Agency Warranty

Highlights

• 5-Star NCAP safety rating
• Top-tier audio system standard
• Lowest depreciation in class

Summary

This 2023 Abarth 695 TURISMO represents a unique opportunity to own a modern Italian performance icon that perfectly balances track-inspired heritage with open-air sophistication. Finding a late-model GCC-spec convertible in this trim is increasingly rare, especially one finished in a grey palette that holds its value exceptionally well in the regional market. While the mileage reflects its capability as a spirited daily driver across the Emirates, the build quality of these high-performance 695 models ensures they remain tight and responsive for their second owners. This car stands out from standard city cars by offering a level of tactile engagement and mechanical soul that rivals simply cannot replicate. For the GCC buyer, this Abarth serves as the perfect 'weekend in the city' car, offering easy parking in dense areas like Downtown Dubai while providing an exhilarating exhaust note for those late-night drives on the E11. Owning this vehicle provides entry into an exclusive community of enthusiasts who value character and heritage over generic mass-market options.

This Car vs Other 2023 695s

When comparing this specific 2023 Abarth 695 to others currently available in the GCC, the primary differentiator is its authentic regional specification, ensuring the cooling systems and air conditioning are optimized for our extreme summer temperatures. While the mileage is higher than a typical garage-queen collectible, it indicates a vehicle that has been consistently driven and maintained, preventing the common seal and gasket issues found in low-mileage cars that sit idle in high heat. The grey exterior is a strategic choice for the UAE and wider Gulf market, as it hides road dust effectively and commands a higher resale premium than more eccentric colors. Most 2023 models found locally are the hard-top variants, making this convertible version a more desirable prospect for those who enjoy the cooler winter months in the region. Choosing a GCC-spec car like this one also ensures that the infotainment and navigation systems are pre-configured for local maps and radio frequencies, providing a seamless user experience from day one. This car represents a balanced entry point for a buyer who wants the latest model year features without the steep initial depreciation of a delivery-mileage example.

TURISMO vs Lower Trims

The TURISMO trim sits at a sweet spot in the Abarth 695 hierarchy, offering a more sophisticated and luxurious approach to performance than the base 595 or standard 695 trims. It adds premium leather upholstery and high-quality interior finishes that are essential for comfort during long commutes between Sharjah and Dubai. Unlike lower trims that may feel more utilitarian, the TURISMO includes upgraded Koni rear suspension with Frequency Selective Damping, which significantly improves ride quality on the undulating highway surfaces common in the GCC. You also benefit from a more premium audio experience and enhanced climate control capabilities, which are vital when the top is down during the shoulder seasons. The exterior is further distinguished by trim-specific alloy wheels and satin chrome details that give it a more mature, 'Grand Tourer' aesthetic compared to the more aggressive, track-focused Competizione trim. This makes it the ideal choice for a professional who wants a car that is exciting to drive but still looks appropriate at a valet stand in the DIFC.

695 vs Segment Rivals

The Abarth 695 exists in a class of its own, but it is most frequently cross-shopepd against the Mini Cooper S Convertible and the Mazda MX-5. While the Mini offers a more clinical, BMW-derived driving experience, the Abarth provides a raw, mechanical connection and an exhaust note that is legendary among enthusiasts. Compared to the MX-5, the 695 offers a much more practical '2+2' seating configuration, allowing for extra storage or short trips with more than one passenger, which is a significant advantage for social weekend outings. The Abarth also benefits from a much smaller footprint, making it the champion of urban maneuverability in tight GCC parking structures where larger rivals often struggle. Its turbocharged power delivery is punchier at lower revs than naturally aspirated competitors, providing the immediate torque needed for quick lane changes in fast-moving city traffic. Furthermore, the Abarth's heritage and Italian design flair give it a level of 'cool factor' and exclusivity that more common small cars simply lack in the fashion-conscious Gulf market.

Running Costs & Resale

Operating an Abarth 695 in the GCC is surprisingly cost-effective given its performance credentials. The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine is efficient during highway cruising, while still providing plenty of power when called upon, and it runs perfectly on the high-octane Super 98 fuel readily available across the UAE and KSA. Service intervals are standard for European performance cars, and there is a robust network of authorized service centers and specialized independent garages in major hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh. Parts availability is excellent due to the shared platform with the standard Fiat 500, though TURISMO-specific components are also well-stocked by local distributors. In terms of resale, Abarth models have a dedicated cult following in the GCC, which helps them maintain a higher percentage of their value compared to mainstream hatchbacks. Historically, these cars depreciate at a rate of approximately 12-15% annually, but the convertible models often see better retention due to lower supply in the used market. This GCC-spec model will always be more liquid and easier to trade in than a 'grey market' import, providing long-term peace of mind for the owner.

Performance & Capability

The heart of this 695 is its high-output 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, which delivers a spirited 100 hp and a surprisingly high torque figure that makes the car feel much faster than its numbers suggest on paper. The automatic transmission is tuned for rapid shifts, making it ideal for the stop-start nature of GCC city traffic while still offering manual control for more involved drives through the mountains of Hatta or Jebel Jais. With its front-wheel-drive layout, the car is incredibly stable and predictable, even when encountering the occasional sand-blown road or sudden rain shower. The steering is sharp and communicative, providing a level of confidence at highway speeds that is rare for a car of this size. Despite being a compact convertible, it handles high-speed cruising on the E11 with remarkable composure, feeling planted and secure. The 'Sport' mode button on the dashboard transforms the car's personality, sharpening the throttle response and increasing the weight of the steering for a truly athletic feel. This is a car designed for the driver who wants to turn every mundane commute into an engaging experience.

Comfort & Cabin

Inside the Abarth 695 TURISMO, you are greeted by a cabin that blends Italian fashion with motorsport ergonomics. The seats are deeply bolstered and finished in premium materials that remain comfortable even during the high-humidity months of a GCC summer. The air conditioning system is remarkably powerful for a convertible, designed to maintain a cool cabin temperature even when the outside thermometer exceeds 40°C. The TURISMO's interior is packed with technology, featuring a crisp infotainment screen that integrates seamlessly with modern smartphones for navigation and music. The high-end audio system is a standout feature, engineered to deliver clear sound even with the roof retracted at cruising speeds. Despite its compact exterior, the driver and front passenger enjoy ample legroom and headroom, while the rear seats serve as a convenient space for groceries or smaller bags. The cabin insulation is also impressively thick, significantly reducing road and wind noise to create a refined environment for long-distance travel across the emirates.

Safety

Safety in the Abarth 695 is comprehensive, centered around a high-strength steel cage that provides excellent protection despite the car's diminutive size. This model holds a 5-Star NCAP safety rating, which is a testament to its robust engineering and array of modern safety systems. Standard equipment includes multiple airbags, advanced Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and a high-performance braking system that provides incredible stopping power—essential for the high-speed highway environments of the GCC. The blind-spot visibility is surprisingly good for a convertible, and the parking sensors make navigating the tightest urban spots effortless. The car also features ISOFIX child seat attachments, ensuring that even the youngest passengers are securely accommodated. Advanced traction control systems ensure that power is delivered safely to the road, preventing wheel spin on dusty or slick surfaces. You can drive with the confidence that this Italian icon is as focused on your protection as it is on your driving pleasure.

The bottom line

This GCC-spec 2023 Abarth 695 TURISMO is the perfect choice for the enthusiast seeking a late-model, high-spec convertible that offers genuine character and reliable local history. It is a rare find in this condition and color, offering an unbeatable combination of Italian style and urban practicality for the discerning UAE buyer.

AI insights generated from market expert data. Always inspect the vehicle before purchase.