2019 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth Teased, Should Echo The Updated Mazda MX-5 | Feature

The 2019 Mazda MX-5 received a handful of significant updates and now it appears the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider will be following suit.

Teased in Abarth guise, the video doesn’t reveal much as it only shows portions of the roadster’s rear end. There doesn’t appear to be any styling changes, but the revving engine could hint at performance upgrades.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles says full details will be announced next week, but the 2019 MX-5 could give us some hints at what to expect. The updated model was revealed in June and it features an improved automatic transmission, a new exhaust system and an aluminum steering shaft which replaces the previous steel unit.

Other changes include “easier-to-open doors” which provide access to the updated cabin. Once inside, drivers will find a new telescoping steering wheel, revised cupholders and new seat levers. The MX-5 also comes with additional safety features including a rearview camera and options such as Smart City Brake Support and Traffic Sign Recognition technology.

Since the 124 Spider has been equipped with different engines than the MX-5, it’s unlikely that the roadster will benefit from Mazda’s significantly improved 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine which now develops 181 hp (135 kW / 183 PS) and 151 lb-ft (204 Nm) of torque. However, the 124 Spider was previously more powerful the MX-5 and Fiat might want to keep that streak going.

Regardless, the 2018 124 Spider has a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces up to 164 hp (123 kW / 1666 PS) and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque. This is 17 hp (12 kW / 17 PS) less than the 2019 MX-5, but 33 lb-ft (44 Nm) more.

Considering the 2019 MX-5 will go on sale in the United States this fall, it’s likely that the updated 124 Spider will arrive at the same time.