The reborn 2016 Fiat 124 Spider has been given an early unveiling this week, thanks to a set of show-all spy photos published in the overseas press.
Caught in the middle of what was likely a promotional photography session, the 124 shown in these photos from Jalopnik.com is the first example to be seen without a shred of camouflage â€" mere hours after a heavily disguised prototype was spied testing in the US.
Fiat has previously promised that the revived 124, based on Mazda’s new MX-5 roadster, would be blessed with unique styling. But, as these images confirm, the lion’s share of design tweaks have gone to the front and rear.
Significant overhang at both ends gives the 124 a longer and more ‘touring’ look than the related MX-5, while specific styling details feature as a throwback to the new Spider’s 1960s predecessor.
A taller and wider dual-port grille design sets the 124 apart from Mazda’s roadster, as do the larger and more rounded headlights.
A fairly nondescript expanse of clean panels dominate the profile, while the rear’s highlights are limited to an integrated boot lip and a pair of Maserati-like tail lamps.
Inside, the 124 presents a mirror image of the MX-5’s interior, with the same steering wheel, dash design, centre display panel and rotary control dial.
Little else is known about the new Japanese-Italian sports car at this stage, Fiat is keeping it cards close to the chest.
It is understood that, unlike the MX-5, the 124 Spider will be driven by a turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol engine, while an Abarth-enhanced version will reportedly be gifted with the same 1.75-litre turbo engine that drives the otherwise unrelated Alfa Romeo 4C coupe and Spider models.
The new Fiat will be built in Japan alongside the MX-5, and a global debut is expected to occur at November’s Los Angeles Auto Show.
An Australian launch is confirmed for next year, although it’s possible we’ll only see the more powerful Abarth version.
More: 124 Spider spied testing
More: Fiat 124 coming to Australia in 2016
More: 124 may only come to Oz in Abarth form
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