The Abarth 600e Scorpionissima makes a statement. Its aggressive styling — bordering on cartoonishly villainous — immediately sets it apart. However, beneath the striking exterior lies a vehicle that, while capable, struggles to deliver a refined or practical experience. After initial testing on the track revealed impressive agility, a long-term evaluation shows the car’s sharp handling is undermined by a harsh ride, excessive road noise, and limited real-world range.
Performance and Mechanical Upgrades
Abarth has leveraged 76 years of hot-hatch expertise in the 600e. The Scorpionissima model boasts a 278-horsepower electric motor, achieving 0-62 mph in 5.8 seconds. Key mechanical enhancements include a limited-slip differential, upgraded brakes, stiffer suspension, wider tracks (30mm front, 25mm rear), and Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires. These improvements translate to a responsive driving experience, but come at the cost of comfort.
The Gimmickry and the Reality
Abarth includes a “sound generator” – a speaker that mimics a petrol engine exhaust. While amusing, this gimmick feels unnecessary in an electric vehicle. More distracting is the ride quality. The 600e is firm, controlling body roll but making even relatively smooth roads feel bumpy. On uneven surfaces, the car bounces noticeably.
Practical Concerns: Range and Noise
The Abarth 600e’s advertised range of 199 miles is optimistic. Real-world testing reveals approximately 160 miles on a single charge, based on an efficiency of 3.0 miles/kWh. The car’s trip computer provides wildly inaccurate estimates, displaying over 200 miles even with a partially depleted battery. This lack of transparency could be a problem on longer trips. Adding to the discomfort, road noise is excessive, with every bump and crack transmitting loudly into the cabin.
A Bold Look, A Rough Ride
The Abarth 600e Scorpionissima is a bold vehicle. It delivers on performance, but sacrifices refinement in the process. The aggressive styling and playful features are offset by a firm ride, high road noise, and unreliable range estimates. Living with this car will require a willingness to trade comfort for character.
The Abarth 600e is a reminder that sometimes, performance comes at a cost. The question is whether drivers are willing to pay it.
