Abarth 695 TURISMO Abarth 695 Turismo 2024 GCC | Warranty

Highlights

• 0–100 km/h in under 7 seconds
• Lowest depreciation in class
• 5-Star NCAP safety rating

Summary

This Abarth 695 Turismo represents a rare opportunity to own a nearly new example of the ultimate performance hatchback optimized for the GCC market. With exceptionally low mileage relative to the typical 25,000 km annual average seen in the UAE, this vehicle retains much of its original factory freshness. The grey exterior is a highly strategic choice for the local market, as it resists the visible effects of fine desert dust better than darker shades while maintaining a strong resale value for European performance cars. This Turismo trim bridges the gap between raw track performance and daily urban usability, offering a sophisticated interior that stands out from more common mass-market hatchbacks. For the GCC buyer, this car offers the unique benefit of a small footprint for navigating dense city traffic in Dubai or Riyadh while delivering the punchy acceleration required for high-speed highway merging. It is a distinctive choice for those who value mechanical personality and Italian heritage over the generic options typically found in this segment.

This Car vs Other 2024 695s

When comparing this specific 2024 Abarth 695 to others currently available in the GCC market, the mileage is the primary differentiator. At just 16,000 km, this vehicle has been driven significantly less than the regional average, suggesting it has likely been used as a secondary weekend car rather than a daily commuter. This low usage is a major advantage for a performance-oriented engine like the 1.4L turbocharged unit, ensuring that the mechanical components are still in their prime. The grey paintwork is one of the most sought-after colors for this model in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, offering a modern, stealthy aesthetic that holds its value better than more eccentric colors. Because this is a 2024 model year, it benefits from the latest minor refinements in cabin technology and software that earlier production runs may lack. Buying a GCC-spec example of this age ensures that the cooling systems and radio frequencies are perfectly calibrated for local infrastructure from day one.

TURISMO vs Lower Trims

Choosing the Turismo trim over the standard base model or the 595 variants brings a significant leap in both performance and cabin refinement that is highly valued by GCC buyers. While lower trims often focus on essential performance, the Turismo adds 180 hp as standard, providing that extra bit of power necessary for confident driving on the E11 or other major regional highways. Inside, the Turismo elevates the experience with high-quality leather upholstery and upgraded interior trim pieces that handle the intense summer heat much better than basic plastics. You also get specifically designed alloy wheels and Koni rear suspension components that are often optional or absent on lower-spec versions. The inclusion of the specialized Garrett turbocharger in this trim ensures more consistent power delivery even when ambient temperatures rise. This trim essentially provides the premium feel of a luxury car within the compact, agile body of a performance hatchback, making it the most balanced choice for the regional market.

695 vs Segment Rivals

The Abarth 695 occupies a unique niche in the GCC market, often cross-shopped against the Mini Cooper S and the Volkswagen Polo GTI. Where the Abarth leads is in its raw, visceral driving experience and its iconic exhaust note, which is far more characterful than its German or British counterparts. For the UAE driver who wants to stand out in a sea of generic cars, the 695 offers an Italian flair and heritage that rivals cannot replicate. Its compact dimensions make it the undisputed king of city parking in crowded areas like Dubai Marina or Downtown Riyadh, where its rivals feel noticeably larger. While competitors often prioritize soft rides, the Abarth offers a focused, go-kart-like handling profile that makes every short trip between meetings an engaging event. Furthermore, the 1.4L engine is remarkably efficient for the performance it offers, providing a lower total cost of fuel compared to the larger displacement engines found in some rival hot hatches.

Running Costs & Resale

Running an Abarth 695 in the GCC is surprisingly manageable given its high performance levels. Real-world fuel consumption typically hovers around 6.5 to 7.0 L/100km during highway cruises between emirates, though stop-start city traffic in high summer with the AC at maximum will see this figure rise slightly. This car requires high-octane fuel (98 Super) to maintain the health of its high-pressure turbocharger, which is readily available at all ENOC, ADNOC, and Sasref stations. Service intervals are generally set every 10,000 to 15,000 km, and since this is a GCC-spec car, it is fully supported by a dedicated network of authorized service centers across the UAE and the wider region. Parts availability is strong due to the shared platform components with the wider Fiat family, ensuring that long-term maintenance won't result in extended downtime. Historically, the 695 holds its value exceptionally well in the secondary market because it is viewed as a 'modern classic' with a dedicated enthusiast following, typically seeing lower annual depreciation than more mainstream European hatchbacks.

Performance & Capability

The heart of this 695 is its 1.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, producing a potent 180 hp. In a car this light, that power translates to a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 6.7 seconds, allowing it to punch well above its weight class. The automatic transmission is tuned for rapid shifts, making it ideal for the fast-paced driving environment of the GCC where quick bursts of speed are often required for lane changes. The Koni FSD (Frequency Selective Damping) suspension ensures that the car remains planted at high speeds while still managing to absorb the occasional road imperfection found on secondary streets. It features a dedicated 'Scorpion' drive mode that sharpens throttle response and adds weight to the steering, perfect for early morning drives through the Jabal Jais mountain passes. Despite its performance credentials, it remains a front-wheel-drive hatchback that is easy to manage for any driver, offering predictable and safe handling characteristics even in the rare event of rain on oily road surfaces.

Comfort & Cabin

Inside the 695 Turismo, the focus is on a driver-centric experience that doesn't sacrifice the comforts needed for the Middle Eastern climate. The seating for four is surprisingly accommodative for short trips, though the front seats are the place to be, featuring bolstered support that keeps you secure during spirited cornering. The air conditioning system in GCC-spec Abarth models is specifically tested to handle the extreme 45°C+ summer heat, ensuring the cabin stays cool even during the peak of the day. Modern technology is well-represented by a 7-inch Uconnect touchscreen system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for seamless navigation through the evolving road networks of the UAE and KSA. The cabin insulation is impressive for a small car, keeping the intense road heat out while allowing the signature engine note to filter through just enough to be enjoyed. High-quality materials on the dashboard and touchpoints provide a tactile sense of luxury that justifies the Turismo badge.

Safety

Safety is a paramount consideration for the Abarth 695, which carries a 5-Star NCAP rating, providing peace of mind on the high-speed highways of the GCC. The car is equipped with a comprehensive suite of seven airbags, including a knee airbag for the driver, which is a rare inclusion in this size segment. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and an advanced Traction Control system are standard, proving vital for maintaining grip during the sudden sandstorms or dusty conditions common in the region. The braking system is upgraded in the Turismo trim to include ventilated discs, ensuring consistent stopping power even after repeated use in high ambient temperatures. Additionally, the car features Rear Parking Sensors to aid in tight city maneuvers, and the bright LED daytime running lights ensure maximum visibility to other drivers on the vast, sun-drenched highways of the Middle East.

The bottom line

This Abarth 695 Turismo is the perfect choice for a Dubai or Abu Dhabi professional who wants an exhilarating, character-filled daily driver that is easy to park and inexpensive to run. With its low 16,000 km mileage and GCC-spec pedigree, this listing offers a virtually new performance experience at a much more accessible price point than a showroom-fresh model.

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