Fiat South Africa has bolstered its Abarth vehicle range with the introduction of the Limited Edition Abarth Punto Scorpione.

Created as the ultimate expression of the Abarth Punto's sporting characteristics, the Limited Edition Abarth Punto Scorpione is dedicated to those performance junkies out there who savour pitting themselves against varying challenges and continuously seek the thrill of higher performance. The Abarth Punto Scorpione is intended for a more mature audience that wishes to express its sporting spirit more discreetly and elegantly.

Only 99 Limited Edition models will be produced worldwide, with South Africa set to receive just 10 units.

The Abarth Punto Scorpione is equipped with a 1.4 MultiAir engine boosted, with the help of a Garrett turbo, to 132kW at 5750rpm and 270Nm at 2500rpm. Acceleration to 100km/h takes 7.5 seconds and it reaches a top speed of 216km/h. CO2 emissions are quoted at 142g/km. Drive to the front wheels is through a six-speed close ratio manual transmission.

Further performance enhancements come from the modified ride and safety. Floating, perforated and self-ventilating front disc brakes with oversized four-piston yellow brake calipers, perforated rear disc brakes and high-performance front brake pads are combined with glossy black 18-inch alloy wheels and front and rear Koni shock absorbers with FSD (Frequency Selective Dumping) valve and specially lowered springs. The exhaust pipe, oversized in the central and rear sections, is taken from the "Esseesse" kit.

Inside, the Abarth Punto Scorpione features "Abarth Corsa by Sabelt" black technical fabric and partially Alcantara-trimmed seats, with red and yellow stitching and matt black backrest, lightened in keeping with the car's sporting spirit. Enriching the interior is the aluminium kickplate, stainless steel pedal unit with Abarth shield, and leather steering wheel with double red and yellow stitching, mirroring the seats. Feedback is provided to the driver by way of the sporty Jaeger driving instruments.

The Abarth Punto Scorpione will be available exclusively from Arnold Chatz cars in Johannesburg. The price? R365 000...