Abarth 600e: electric hot hatch with 235-278bhp from 36,985

Abarth has taken the electric Fiat 600 and turned it into a deliberately cheeky hot hatch, rolling out the Abarth 600e with performance-focused styling and two powertrains aimed at buyers who want playful handling in an electric package, reviewers said. The model is offered in a standard 235bhp specification and a hotter Scorpionissima that delivers 278bhp, and pricing begins at 36,985 with the Scorpionissima listed at 38,885.

The new 600e is built on the Fiat 600’s platform, which shares underpinnings with the Jeep Avenger, but Abarth’s engineers and designers have applied conspicuous visual and mechanical upgrades intended to separate it from its mass-market roots. Reviewers highlighted a suite of sporty touches including aggressive exterior tweaks, pronounced bucket seats trimmed with Alcantara, vivid colour options and a firm, tightly tuned suspension meant to sharpen handling. The top Scorpionissima model also adds an artificial sound generator to amplify the driving experience.

Under the skin the car uses a 54kWh battery pack. Abarth’s stated range is about 207 miles, but reviews caution that real-world range will be lower, particularly if drivers exploit the car’s dynamic...