All-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Revives Legendary Nameplate with Iconic Italian Styling and Dynamic Driving Experience
2017 Fiat 124 Spider returns nearly 50 years after original introduction
Revival of roadster continues expansion of FIAT brand in North America
Delivers iconic Italian style with modern adaptation of original Spider legend
Powered by turbocharged MultiAir 1.4-liter engine for 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque, available with manual or automatic transmission
Available with an array of safety and security features, plus technologies for added comfort and convenience
First 124 units will be available as limited-production Prima Edizione Lusso
The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider revives the storied nameplate, bringing its classic Italian styling and performance to a new generation. Paying homage to the original 124 Spider nearly 50 years after its introduction, the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider delivers the ultimate Italian roadster experience with driving excitement, technology and safety combined with iconic Italian design.
“There’s no better way to celebrate 50 years of the Fiat 124 Spider than to bring back this iconic roadster, pairing its Italian styling of the past with all of the modern performance and technology of today,” said Olivier François, Head of FIAT Brand, FCA – Global. “The 124 Spider expands the FIAT family, bringing to market yet another head-turning, fun-to-drive vehicle for our customers.”
Engaging driving dynamics through thoughtful engineering
In North America, the Fiat 124 Spider is available with the proven 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo four-cylinder engine, the engine’s first application in a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. The engine delivers 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque, and is available with a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission.
The 124 Spider’s suspension uses a double-wishbone layout in front and a multi-link in the rear, specifically tuned for greater stability while braking and turning. Steering is light and responsive with the use of an electric power assist (dual pinion) system.
The steering and suspension setup, lightweight frame, balanced weight distribution and turbocharged engine combine for a dynamic driving experience. Noise vibration and harshness (NVH) enhancements, including an acoustic front windshield and insulation treatments, also help to deliver a refined, quiet ride.
For an open-air driving experience, the Fiat 124 Spider’s soft convertible top is easy to operate and requires minimal force, much like the original Spider’s top.
Loaded with safety, security and technology features
The all-new roadster is available with an array of safety and security features, including adaptive front headlamps, Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection and ParkView rear backup camera. A high-strength body helps to dissipate energy while optimizing occupant protection.
The Fiat 124 Spider is also available with technology features for added comfort and convenience, including the FIAT Connect 7.0 system with 7-inch touchscreen display, multimedia control, Bluetooth connectivity, heated seats and Keyless Enter ‘n Go.
A Bose premium sound system with nine speakers, including dual headrest speakers, is also available for superior sound quality even with the top down.
Design pays homage to past with modern interpretation of styling cues
The all-new Fiat 124 Spider, designed at Centro Stile in Turin, Italy, borrows cues from the original Spider – widely considered one of Fiat’s most beautiful cars of all time – and reinterprets them for today. The 2017 124 Spider has a timeless low-slung presence, with a classically beautiful bodyside, well-balanced proportions and a sporty cabin-to-hood ratio. Features like the hexagonal upper grille and grille pattern, “power domes” on the front hood and sharp horizontal rear lamps call to mind details of the historic Spider.
The interior is crafted and designed to focus on the occupants, with premium soft-touch materials throughout. Ergonomics were applied to emphasize the driving experience and ensure easy operation of the steering wheel, pedals and shifter while driving.
The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is available in two trim levels: Classica and Lusso. Each model is available in six exterior paint colors, including Rosso Passione (Red Clear Coat), Bianco Gelato (White Clear Coat), Nero Cinema (Jet Black Metallic), Grigio Argento (Gray Metallic), Grigio Moda (Dark Gray Metallic) and Bronzo Magnetico (Bronze Metallic). The Lusso (“Luxury”) model is also available in tri-coat Bianco Perla (Crystal White Pearl).
Special edition gives enthusiasts the chance to own one of the first 2017 Fiat 124 Spiders
To celebrate the return of the classic nameplate, the first 124 vehicles will be offered as a limited-edition Prima Edizione Lusso, as shown at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show. Each will be individually numbered with a commemorative badge and available in exclusive Azzurro Italia (Blue) exterior paint with premium leather seats in Saddle. Owners who purchase a Prima Edizione will also receive limited-edition items, including wearables and a poster. For more information about ordering a Fiat 124 Spider Prima Edizione, interested customers can sign up for updates at http://www.fiatusa.com.
The all-new Fiat 124 Spider will arrive in FIAT studios in North America in summer 2016.
Design
2017 Fiat 124 Spider takes styling cues from original Spider, reinterprets them for the 21st century
Interior crafted to focus on occupants, with soft-touch materials throughout
Available in two models – Classica and Lusso – with up to seven exterior paint color
Designed at Centro Stile in Turin, Italy, the all-new Fiat 124 Spider delivers a modern adaptation of a legend. The iconic styling of the 2017 124 Spider features cues from one of Fiat’s most beautiful cars of all time – the original Spider – and translates them for the 21st century. The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider joins the FIAT family of iconic contemporary cars strongly rooted in the brand’s heritage.
Exterior design
With its timeless low-slung presence, the Fiat 124 Spider features a classically beautiful bodyside with well-balanced proportions and a sporty cabin-to-hood ratio. A horizontal line emerges from the front fender, kicks up over the rear fender and flows toward the rear headlamp, an interpretation of the historical 124 Spider’s body.
The upper grille has a hexagonal shape, inspired by the unique shape of the original 124 Spider’s front air intake. A hexagonal grille pattern emphasizes this shape and echoes the sporty honeycomb mesh on the grille of the original 124 Spider.
Signature LED front and rear headlamps add to the car’s expression both day and night. The front lamps have a focused appearance, and when paired with the hexagonal front grille, give the car an alert expression, while the lower grille has a friendly look and an “eyelid” that wraps over each front headlamp and runs toward the upper corner of the front grille. Front turn indicators and fog lamp bezels add a dynamic touch that, combined with the wide hexagonal grille, give the front face an unmistakable character.
“Power domes” on the front hood emphasize the engine’s location and power, and give a nod to the second-series 124 Spider, where the domes were originally introduced.
The rear of the Fiat 124 Spider is defined by two main features: the “seagull” section of the rear fenders and sharp horizontal rear lamps – both elements found on the original 124 Spider.
The rear fenders are shaped so that the upper surface falls inward toward the decklid, giving them a distinctive V-shape from the rear. The body color insert in the rear lamps, a signature detail, gives the lamps a closed loop appearance.
An integrated rear spoiler enhances the aerodynamic performance, and the rear license plate is mounted between the rear lamps, as on the original 124 Spider. Twin exhausts underline the performance capability of the engine.
Interior design
With Italian craftsmanship and premium materials throughout, the interior of the Fiat 124 Spider is designed to focus on its occupants. Ergonomics were applied to ensure the steering wheel, pedals and shifter are easily and quickly operable while driving.
The dashboard features a unique design with a colored bezel, and uses soft-touch materials. The cluster graphics, round meter hood and wrapped dome call to mind the Fiat 500X, and the horizontal painted bezel comes from the Fiat 500.
The steering wheel was ergonomically designed to emphasize the car’s handling, and is crafted with premium grained leather. The seats, which have a light net structure with unique foam shape and upholstery, were also designed using ergonomics, ensuring a comfortable fit for the driver. Door panels are crafted using premium soft-touch materials and feature a Satin Chrome door handle.
From the driver’s seat, the three-gauge cluster display includes a tachometer positioned in the middle for performance driving. An available 7-inch touchscreen radio provides drivers with connectivity, information and entertainment.
Classica
The Classica model features a dual-tip exhaust, Black roll bar finish, and body-color header, side sills and door handles. It comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, Nero (Black) premium cloth seats, halogen headlamps and LED tail lamps. Inside, soft-touch materials on the instrument panel are highlighted with light silver accents.
The Classica is available in six colors: Rosso Passione (Red Clear Coat), Bianco Gelato (White Clear Coat), Nero Cinema (Jet Black Metallic), Grigio Argento (Gray Metallic), Grigio Moda (Dark Gray Metallic) and Bronzo Magnetico (Bronze Metallic).
Lusso
The Lusso (“Luxury”) model builds on the Classica, with standard 17-inch alloy wheels, silver-painted A-pillar header and roll-bar cover and dual-tip chrome exhaust. The interior features heated premium leather seats in Nero (Black) or Saddle and a leatherette-wrapped cluster brow. The lower instrument panel is also wrapped in leatherette, with Piano Black accents throughout.
The Lusso model is available in seven colors: Rosso Passione (Red Clear Coat), Bianco Gelato (White Clear Coat), Nero Cinema (Jet Black Metallic), Grigio Argento (Gray Metallic), Grigio Moda (Dark Gray Metallic), Bronzo Magnetico (Bronze Metallic) and Bianco Perla (Crystal White Pearl Tri-coat).
Engineering
All-new Fiat 124 Spider Engineered for Dynamic Driving Experience
2017 Fiat 124 Spider delivers performance-oriented and engaging driving dynamics in a robust rear-wheel-drive package
Turbocharged MultiAir 1.4-liter engine with a front-mounted intercooler delivers 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque, available with manual or automatic transmission
Suspension, steering and noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) tuning contribute to a refined, yet responsive ride
Easy-to-operate convertible soft top for open-air experience
With its responsive handling, excellent power-to-weight ratio, MultiAir Turbo power, use of lightweight materials and precision engineering, the all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider delivers the dynamic driving experience synonymous with both the iconic Fiat 124 Spider of yore and today’s FIAT brand.
High-performance engine design provides high output to the rear wheels
The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider in North America features the proven 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo four-cylinder engine, the engine’s first application in a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. The engine delivers 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque.
Structurally, the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine starts with a cast-iron block and an aluminum bedplate. Bore is 72 mm (2.83 inches) and stroke is 84 mm (3.31 inches) for a total displacement of 1,368 cu. cm (83.5 cu. in.).
Lightweight cast-aluminum, hard-anodized pistons contribute to the overall strength of the reciprocating assembly and the engine’s high rpm capability. Full-floating piston pins are used for added reliability. Piston cooling jets, located at the bottom of each cylinder, contribute to consistent power delivery and efficient fuel usage by squirting oil on the bottom of the pistons to help maintain piston temperatures and reduce the possibility of hot spots along the cylinder walls or at the top of the piston, which could lead to detonation.
Compression ratio of the Fiat 124 Spider’s 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine is 9.8:1. For optimum fuel economy and performance, fuel with a 91 or higher octane rating is preferred, while regular 87 octane is acceptable.
The 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine’s induction system includes a front-mounted intercooler designed to remove heat in the air charge that the turbocharger generates while compressing incoming air (higher air density for more power). Reducing heat provides a cooler, denser air charge that helps increase the potential for more power while reducing detonation sensitivity.
Other high-performance engine components include a new fresh-air intake system, a high-flow air filter and smooth-flowing plumbing for maximum power.
Paired with either a six-speed manual transmission (standard on the Classica model) or a six-speed automatic transmission (standard on the Lusso model; available on the Classica), the proven 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine in the Fiat 124 Spider is designed to meet the rigorous demands of performance driving throughout its 6,500 rpm range.
Automatic transmission delivers direct shift feel and excellent fuel economy
The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider’s six-speed automatic transmission uses a lockup torque converter with a damper. Lockup control is available from second gear and up. As a result, the six-speed automatic transmission offers a more direct feeling in response to pedal operation and improved fuel economy.
Lightweight manual transmission tuned for optimal clutch and shift feel
The 124 Spider’s six-speed manual transmission is a directly connected six-speed gearbox that features a simple structure and compact, lightweight design. Its die-cast aluminum housing, control over the flow of transmission oil and material use contributes to its lighter weight.
Shifts are direct and smooth with only a light amount of force required. The choice of gearing allows the use of a compact rear differential unit to improve fuel economy.
To contribute to the 124 Spider’s precise driving dynamics, the clutch pedal operation is optimized, allowing drivers to control acceleration G-forces and delivering easy, quick shifts. The clutch pedal is ergonomically positioned to ensure the optimal length of movement between the pedal at rest and the engagement point – allowing for rhythmical gear changes with a light feeling. Optimized tuning of the pedal based on muscle characteristics results in a clutch feeling that enables precise control over the rate of acceleration.
Rear-wheel-drive system
The balanced front-to-rear weight distribution is combined with a lowered yaw inertia moment (achieved by moving the engine rearward and adopting aluminum components at the front and rear ends of the body) and a low center of gravity to deliver a light, dynamic driving experience.
The rear differential unit features a ring gear optimized to support the amount of torque produced. The thickness of the aluminum casing is reduced, maintaining strength and noise vibration and harshness (NVH) performance characteristics. The rear differential unit is compact, and the shape of the inside of the unit is optimized to create a smooth flow of oil from the rear differential gears.
Convertible top system
An open-air driving experience is effortless with the Fiat 124 Spider’s easy-to-operate soft top. The operation of the top is optimized by examining the natural path the driver’s hand takes when operating the top and how the driver can most easily apply the force required. An assist spring supports the driver’s action when raising the top from the fully open position, making the force required minimal. This optimization saves weight by eliminating the need for a power assist system.
When the lock levers are used to open or close the top, the windows are automatically lowered to 140 mm lower than their fully raised position, making it easier and more convenient to operate the top.
The 124 Spider’s seat structure also makes it simple to operate the soft top while seated. The seat provides a consistent level of support from the thighs, rear, hips and side of the ribcage, while bolsters are less snug at the shoulder level – allowing the driver’s upper body freedom of motion.
While driving the 124 Spider with the top and windows down, the human-centric proportions of the body design and the rearward placement of the front header surrounding the windshield help to guide the wind above the heads of occupants and toward the rear of the car – minimizing both the amount of wind striking occupants directly and any drafts wrapping around from behind.
Lightweight body structure
The Fiat 124 Spider’s body structure applies the basic concept of using straight beams and creating a continuous framework wherever possible so the various individual sections function in harmony.
In addition, the use of aluminum and high-tensile steel provides safety and rigidity, producing a lightweight open-top body that responds briskly to a driver’s will.
The straight high-mount backbone frame for the front tunnel section – a crucial component for an open-top vehicle – and the large cross section contribute to build a strong structure. In addition, the subframe and crossmembers connect the backbone to the front and rear sections, which help to provide a structure that is lightweight, safe and highly rigid.
Driving performance is enhanced by the application of lightweight aluminum parts on the body and chassis. Components made of aluminum include the hood and trunk lid, front and rear bumper reinforcements, seatback bars, underbody crossmember and bulkhead panel. To further optimize weight, the 124 Spider features an advanced seat structure that uses a lightweight net material on the seatback and seat cushion.
Suspension setup and steering contribute to dynamic driving
The Fiat 124 Spider’s front suspension uses a double-wishbone layout. The 124 Spider’s multi-link rear suspension helps to improve control while cornering. The dampers are connected directly to the hub supports, delivering a 1:1 damper level ratio in relation to the suspension stroke. The mounting position of the dampers is optimized to minimize changes in the ratio, helping to improve the grip of the tires. The axis of wheel deflection is set behind the point of contact with the road in response to lateral input from the tires. This creates link positioning that uses lateral force from the tires to increase toe-in, even under higher G-forces while cornering, for greater stability while turning.
With the use of an electric power assist steering (dual pinion) system, the 124 Spider’s steering is light and responsive, accurately transmitting road input with a minimum of torque variation. Applying the power assist directly to the steering rack delivers positive feedback when steering in the high G-force range. The straight steering shaft position creates a linear steering feel, with the steering gear ratio optimized to deliver a linear response that matches driver tendencies.
NVH enhancements deliver refined, quiet ride
To minimize noise and vibrations and create a quiet, comfortable ride whether the top is open or closed, engineers adjusted the characteristics between the engine mounts. In addition, the cross-section shape of the frame that joins the transmission to the rear differential is positioned to allow occupants to sit closer to the center of the vehicle, while reducing powertrain vibrations. Individual suspension components are optimized to avoid generating resonance with one another, achieving stability while handling and minimizing road noise.
Wind noise is combated with the adoption of an aerodynamically efficient design for the rear edge of the hood, the A-pillars and header. The seatbelt mounting position is located to minimize wind noise while driving with the top down.
The 124 Spider also uses materials to prevent fluttering and improve sound insulation in order to reduce noise while driving with the top up. The soft top features a headliner inside the vehicle for improved sound absorption, as well as a rear package mat that adds to sound absorption and insulation.
Safety and Security Features
All-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Loaded with Advanced Safety and Security Features
2017 Fiat 124 Spider offers an array of advanced safety and security features, including Blind-spot Monitoring and adaptive front headlamps
High-strength body structure helps dissipate energy while optimizing occupant protection
The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider offers an array of safety and security features, underlining the FIAT brand’s commitment to its customers. The all-new roadster is available with features like Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection and ParkView rear backup camera.
High-strength body structure
The all-new Fiat 124 Spider’s body uses straight beams wherever possible and a continuous framework adapted specifically for a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive convertible. The result is a high-strength, high-rigidity, lightweight structure that helps dissipate energy and improve protection in the event of a crash.
In the event of a frontal impact, the structure’s multi-load path disperses energy in two directions. Impact force is absorbed by one path, which employs a cross-shaped structure for crush cans and front frame members, while the other path incorporates an impact-absorbing extension on the front suspension crossmember. This helps reduce cabin deformation.
The Fiat 124 Spider’s structure benefits from high-strength, hot-stamped steel and ultra-high-tensile steel around the center of the cabin, along with high-strength aluminum in the front bumper beam. Use of these materials also affords weight reduction.
Standard and available safety and security features on the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider include:
Advanced multistage air bags: Inflate with a force appropriate to the severity of the impact. Meet FMVSS 208 advanced air bag requirements for smaller, out-of-position occupants
Anti-lock brake system (ABS): Senses and prevents wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions
Auto-dimming rearview mirror: Auto-dimming mirror automatically reduces glare from bright light, allowing the driver to have a clearer view of the road ahead
Automatic headlamps: Headlamps turn on and off automatically depending on exterior light levels and when the windshield wipers are turned on or off
BeltAlert: Activates a chime and/or illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver and front passenger to buckle up if a vehicle is driven without belted front-seat occupants
Blind-spot Monitoring (BSM): Uses radar sensors to aid the driver when changing lanes or if being passed by or passing unseen vehicles. The system notifies the driver via illuminated icons on the side-view mirror
Brake/park interlock: Prevents the transmission from being shifted out of “Park” unless the brake pedal is pushed
Constant-force retractors (CFR): Regulate the force exerted on the occupants by the seat belts and then gradually release seat-belt webbing in a controlled manner
Daytime running lamps (DRL): Lights that illuminate during daytime conditions, increasing the vehicle’s visibility to other drivers
Electronic brake-force distribution: Assists the driver to optimize stopping distances and control under all vehicle loading conditions by regulating braking pressure front-to-rear
Electronic roll mitigation (ERM): An extension of electronic stability control (ESC). Uses input from ESC sensors to anticipate if the vehicle is at risk of entering a potential roll situation, then applies the brakes individually and modulates the throttle position as needed
Electronic stability control (ESC): Enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability under all conditions. Provides the benefit in critical driving situations such as turns, and is valuable when driving on mixed surface conditions including snow, ice or gravel. If there is a discernible difference between driver input through the steering wheel and the vehicle’s path, ESC applies selective braking and throttle input to guide the vehicle back on to the driver’s intended path
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC): Provides the driver with trip, temperature and other vehicle information within the instrument cluster
Energy-absorbing steering column: The manual-adjust steering column utilizes two hydroformed coaxial tubes that can move relative to each other to allow the column to move forward for enhanced energy absorption during a crash
Express down windows: One-touch powered express down window button located on the front driver door
Fog lamps: Lighting to provide additional visibility in fog or other poor weather conditions
Front and rear crumple zones: Specially formed structural members that crumple and absorb energy in a collision, helping protect the occupant cabin
Front seat-belt adaptive/active load limiters: Designed to limit the chest loading in an impact event
Front seat-belt pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate front seat-belt pretensioners to remove slack in the seat belt system, thereby reducing the forward movement of the occupant’s head and torso
Global position sensor (GPS): Used for navigation guidance and electronic vehicle tracking
Heated side-view mirrors: Prevents buildup of snow or ice on side-view mirrors to maintain visibility
Instrument cluster display: Offers drivers a wide range of customization options to communicate vehicle information with easy-to-understand icons
Keyless Enter ‘n Go: When an individual enters the vehicle, electronic sensors detect if the vehicle key fob is present. The vehicle will then allow the individual to push a button to start the vehicle without having to insert the key into the ignition
Mechanical parking brake: Latching brake used to keep the vehicle stationary
Occupant Restraint Controller: Detects an impact and determines whether a crash is severe enough to trigger air bag deployment and whether the primary or secondary stage inflation is sufficient. In addition, the controller detects side impacts and determines whether the rail-curtain and side seat-mounted (thorax protection) air bags should deploy. Engagement of front seat-belt pretensioners are also managed through the controller
ParkSense rear park assist system: The system utilizes ultrasonic sensors at low speeds in reverse to detect stationary objects
ParkView rear backup camera: Provides a wide-angle view of the area immediately behind the vehicle, giving the driver greater peace of mind before reversing at low speeds. Contains grid lines to aid the driver when maneuvering into parking spaces or narrow areas. The image is displayed on the navigation screen when the transmission is shifted into Reverse
Rain-sensing wipers: A driver convenience feature that automatically senses moisture on the windshield and activates wipers
Rear Cross Path detection: In parking lot situations, this system warns drivers backing out of parking spaces of traffic moving toward their vehicle. It activates any time the vehicle is in Reverse. The driver is notified of vehicle(s) crossing behind the vehicle via illuminated icons on the side-view mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime
Remote keyless entry: Locks and unlocks doors and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped with a security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system
Safety cage body structure: Protects occupants by managing and controlling energy in the event of an impact
Security alarm: Deters vandalism and theft, frequently lowering insurance premiums. System protects the vehicle from theft by monitoring door-ajar switches and the ignition circuit for unauthorized entry
Sentry Key engine immobilizer: Utilizes an engine key that has an embedded transponder with a preprogrammed security code to discourage vehicle theft
Side guard door beams: Reinforcement beams inside the doors that increase occupant protection in a side collision
Supplemental turn signals: Signal lamps built into the vehicle bodyside allow turn signals to be viewed from the front, sides and rear of the vehicle in order to alert oncoming traffic and pedestrians
Three-point seat belts: Seating positions have lap and shoulder belts
Tire-pressure monitoring (TPM) system: Informs driver when tire pressure is too low
Traction control system: Part of the standard anti-lock brake system (ABS), helps keep driving wheels from spinning during acceleration from a stop or during all speeds by applying individual brakes alone or in combination with engine torque limitation to prevent wheel slip
FIAT Connect Voice Command: An in-vehicle, voice-activated communication system that allows drivers to operate a Bluetooth-compatible phone with their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. When the Bluetooth phone is initially connected, the contact list is automatically downloaded, synchronizing phone book entries, which can then be selected by simply saying a contact name. It also allows drivers to switch radio modes and tune to AM/FM radio and SiriusXM Radio stations using natural voice commands
Technology
2017 Fiat 124 Spider Offers Features for Added Technology, Comfort and Convenience
Available communication, entertainment and convenience features keep drivers connected and comfortable
FIAT Connect systems offer available 7-inch touchscreen, Bose premium sound system, Bluetooth connectivity and ParkView rear backup camera
The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider offers a range of technologies, helping to enhance the fun-to-drive nature of the vehicle, and keep drivers connected and safe.
The 124 Spider comes standard with a three-gauge cluster, featuring a large analog tachometer in the center, a speedometer on the right and an information display on the left, allowing drivers to easily monitor vehicle information.
In addition to a full array of safety and security features, a collection of technologies provide additional comfort and convenience, including available Keyless Enter ‘n Go, heated front seats, heated side mirrors, auto-dimming rearview and side mirrors and automatic temperature control.
FIAT Connect systems
The all-new Fiat 124 Spider features the easy-to-use FIAT Connect systems. The FIAT Radio 3.0, standard on the Classica, includes AM/FM radio, MP3 player, USB port, auxiliary input and six speakers. Bluetooth connectivity with handsfree calling and streaming audio is also standard.
The FIAT Connect 7.0 system, standard on the Lusso and available on the Classica, includes a 7-inch touchscreen display, AM/FM radio, HD Radio, MP3 player, two USB ports, auxiliary input, six speakers, multimedia control, Bluetooth connectivity and ParkView rear backup camera.
Standard on the FIAT Connect 7.0, voice recognition allows drivers to operate their mobile phone, music and navigation system handsfree, to stay focused on driving. Voice-text reply also allows drivers with a compatible mobile phone to reply to a text message using predefined responses.
Other available options with the FIAT Connect 7.0 include SiriusXM Radio and navigation. For superior sound quality even with the top down, a Bose premium sound system with nine speakers, including dual headrest speakers per seat and a subwoofer, is available.
For added entertainment, FIAT Connect 7.0 also provides drivers with access to Pandora, Aha and Stitcher Internet radio apps via Bluetooth connectivity.
Aha by HARMAN
Aha makes it easy to instantly access more than 30,000 stations of audio content, including leading Internet music services, Internet radio, news, entertainment, audiobooks, Facebook and Twitter newsfeeds, weather and more.
Pandora
Pandora gives people music they love anytime, anywhere. Personalized radio stations launch instantly, with the input of a favorite artist, song, comedian or musical genre. The Music Genome Project, a deeply detailed, hand-built musical taxonomy, powers the personalization of Pandora by using musicological “DNA” and constant listener feedback to craft personalized stations from a growing collection of more than a million tracks.
Stitcher
Stitcher Radio is an application that provides access to thousands of radio shows and podcasts streamed directly to devices without downloading or syncing. Discover the best news, entertainment, sports and talk radio, on demand. Recommended content is automatically selected by registering content added to Favorites, or by thumbs-up and thumbs-down rankings.
50 Years of Heritage: The History of the 124 Spider
In November 1966 at the Turin Auto Show, the Fiat 124 Spider debuted to great critical acclaim. In the nearly 50 years since its introduction, the 124 Spider has remained an icon for collectors and car buffs alike.
Widely considered the best affordable mass-produced sports car of its generation, the Fiat 124 Spider was first sold in the U.S. market in 1968. The roadster featured a five-speed manual transmission, 1438cc twin-cam engine, four-wheel disc brakes, intermittent windshield wipers and steering-column-mounted lighting controls. Available in seven colors, the 124 Spider sold with a 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty for $3,265.
The 124 Spider, which evolved from Fiat’s mid-range 124 sedan, was a true sports car with broad appeal. Fiat chose the design firm Pininfarina, a longtime partner and the largest and most respected name in Italian coachbuilding, to style and build the 124 Spider.
Americans loved the Spider’s proportions and unassuming Italian styling. Its water-tight soft top could be lowered quickly and easily from the driver’s seat, and the glass rear-quarter windows provided good visibility.
In fact, the 124 Spider’s design was so successful that the vehicle was never extensively redesigned during its 19-year production run, and is still considered one of Pininfarina’s greatest commercial hits.
Less than 10 years after its introduction to the U.S. market, the Fiat 124 Spider was such a sales success here that Fiat began producing the vehicle exclusively for the U.S. market in 1975. In 1979, the vehicle was renamed the Spider 2000, referring to its new 1995cc engine.
Toward the end of 1981, Pininfarina took over the entire production process of the vehicle, and sales in Europe resumed. In 1982, production of Fiat and Pininfarina Spiders overlapped as Fiat built the last Spider 2000 models and Pininfarina began production of its own version, sold in the U.S. as the Pininfarina Spider Azzurra and in Europe as the Pininfarina Spidereuropa. The Pininfarina Spider Azzurra included leather trim, stereo/cassette player and power windows as standard.
Production of the roadster ended in 1985 after nearly 200,000 Spiders had been built. Its extensive 19-year production run means the Fiat 124 Spider outlived nearly all of its contemporary sports car competition, excluding the Alfa Romeo Spider.
More than 170,000 124 Spiders were sold in the U.S. from 1968 to 1985. Today, there are nearly 8,000 still registered here.
With its global debut at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show, the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider revives the storied nameplate, bringing its iconic Italian styling and performance to a new generation.
Fiat 124 Spider Timeline
November 1966 – Fiat 124 Spider debuted at the Turin Auto Show
1968 – First Spider sold in the U.S. market
1975 – Produced exclusively for the U.S. market after immense sales success there
1979 – Renamed the Spider 2000
1981 – Pininfarina took over the entire production process of the vehicle. Sales in Europe resumed
1982 – Production of Fiat and Pininfarina Spiders overlapped as Fiat built the last Spider 2000 models and Pininfarina began production of its own version, sold in the U.S. as the Pininfarina Spider Azzurra and in Europe as the Pininfarina Spidereuropa
1985 – Production of the model line ended after nearly 200,000 Spiders had been built, three-quarters of which were for the U.S. market
November 2015 – Legendary nameplate returns nearly 50 years later with the global debut of the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider at the Los Angeles Auto Show
Mopar offers a full array of parts and accessories to give the 124 Spider added “bite”
The Mopar brand is spinning a comprehensive “web” of products to assist owners in customizing the all-new Fiat 124 Spider. From premium leather seat options, to graphics packages, to functional performance items, the Mopar brand makes sure that every customer has the option to personalize and make the Italian-inspired roadster truly unique.
“Our mission at Mopar is to inspire people to personalize their vehicles from both a visual and a performance standpoint,” said Pietro Gorlier, Head of Parts and Service (Mopar), FCA-Global. “We offer a full array of products, with comprehensive warranty, so owners can customize their rides and make sure that the Spider truly reflects their own unique vision for the all-new roadster.”
Mopar parts and accessories for the newest addition to the FIAT brand include:
Premium leather seats: Transform the interior of the Fiat 124 Spider with premium leather seat options, available on Classica and Lusso trims
Graphics packages: Mopar will offer a full lineup of graphics packages to customize the exterior of the Fiat 124 Spider. Sport stripes in a black, carbon fiber look and Italian racing stripes can be added to enhance the already stylish two-seater
Trim upgrades: Choose from a variety of color options, including Gun Metal finish, Bright Silver, Black or Red to accent the trim of the window frame, mirror covers and roll bars
Performance strut braces: Manufactured from lightweight, high-strength aluminum, Mopar's performance strut tower brace and undercarriage brace increase chassis rigidity and boost handling of the FIAT brand's new roadster
Performance Pedal Kit: Aluminum sport pedals are available for both manual and automatic transmission models for that racing feel and style
Slush mats: Protect the interior with all-weather mats that feature molded, deep ribs to collect water, mud and other enemies of the vehicle's carpet
Splash guards: Front and rear splash guards provide added protection from road debris and stone chips
About Mopar Brand
Mopar (a simple contraction of the words MOtor and PARts) was trademarked in 1937 with the launch of an antifreeze product, but it truly made its mark in the 1960s during the muscle-car era. From Mopar Performance Parts to enhance speed and handling for both road and racing use, the brand soon expanded to include technical service and customer support.
Today, Mopar is FCA's service, parts and customer-care brand and distributes more than 500,000 parts and accessories in over 150 markets around the world. With more than 50 parts distribution centers and 27 customer-contact hubs globally, Mopar integrates service, parts and customer-care operations in order to enhance dealer and customer support worldwide. Mopar is the source for genuine parts and accessories for FCA brands.
Mopar parts are engineered together with the same teams that create factory-authorized specifications for FCA vehicles. This offers a direct connection that no other aftermarket parts company can provide. A complete list of Mopar accessories and performance parts is available at http://www.mopar.com.
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