June 6, 2017,
Auburn Hills, Mich.
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The all-new
2017 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth took the top award in the “Small Convertible” category at the seventh annual Topless in Miami Presented by Haartz competitive car event hosted by the Southern Automotive Media Association (SAMA).
"With its iconic Italian design, spirited driving dynamics and easy-to-operate convertible top, the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth truly impressed our judges," said Jaime Florez, SAMA president. "Across all of the judging criteria, including styling, technology, and ride and comfort, the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth not only delivered, but also wowed.”
More than 40 journalists attended the event and drove more than 25 vehicles from various manufacturers. Journalists voted for their favorite vehicles after driving scenic routes in Key Biscayne, Fla.
About the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider
The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider brings classic Italian styling and proven performance to a new generation of buyers. Paying homage to the original 124 Spider, the all-new Spider delivers the ultimate Italian roadster experience with driving excitement, technology and safety combined with iconic design.
The roadster comes standard 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 on Classica and Lusso, 164 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque on Abarth, and is available with a six-speed manual transmission (26 mpg city/35 mpg highway) or a six-speed automatic transmission (25 mpg city/36 mpg highway).
The Fiat 124 Spider has a double-wishbone front suspension and rear multi-link suspension with stabilizer bars, and tuned electric-power steering system for enhanced handling and fuel efficiency. Available safety features include Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection and ParkView rear backup camera. Available technology and convenience features include passive entry with keyless go, Bluetooth connectivity, heated seats, and FIAT Connect with access to Pandora, Stitcher and Aha apps.
About SAMA
Based in Miami, the Southern Automotive Media Association members include journalists, media organizations, corporate communication specialists, marketing and advertising specialists, and auto manufacturers specializing in the automotive industry. Formed in 2007, the organization now has more than 100 members throughout Florida and the southeastern United States.