The Abarth 600e Scorpionissima stands out as the brand’s most potent electric vehicle, blending aggressive styling with high-output performance. Over several months of intensive use, this top-tier model has delivered exhilarating drives while exposing some practical limitations typical of performance-focused EVs.
Performance Unleashed: Power Modes Explained
Abarth equips the 600e with multiple driving modes to balance efficiency, comfort, and outright speed. The base Turismo setting caps power at 188bhp for the Scorpionissima variant, promoting smoother operation and better energy use. Stepping up to Scorpion Street unlocks 223bhp, ideal for spirited road driving. The highlight is Scorpion Track mode, which releases the full 278bhp and 345Nm of torque, sharpening throttle response, loosening traction control, and weighting the steering for track-like precision.
This mode transforms the car dramatically. Acceleration surges to 0-62mph in 5.8 seconds, rivaling traditional hot hatches like the Volkswagen Golf GTI. The front-mounted electric motor provides instant torque, making low-speed launches addictive, though top-end pull fades beyond 60mph. Deactivating regenerative braking in Track mode improves pedal modulation, eliminating the jerky feel common in EVs.
Chassis Dynamics and Handling Prowess
Engineers widened the track by 30mm at the front and 25mm at the rear, pairing it with 20-inch Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires for superior grip. A mechanical limited-slip differential enhances cornering agility by minimizing wheel slip. The result is playful handling that echoes Abarth’s hot hatch heritage, with precise turn-in and minimal body roll.
However, the firm suspension tuned for sportiness transmits road imperfections harshly, leading to an unsettled ride on uneven surfaces. This setup prioritizes driver engagement over passenger comfort, making it less ideal for long motorway cruises.
Design and Visual Impact
The Scorpionissima edition boasts a menacing aesthetic with its blacked-out accents, aggressive front fascia, and scorpion-inspired badging. Limited to 1,949 units, it includes premium touches like heated Sabelt bucket seats and a synthetic exhaust sound generator that mimics a turbocharged growl through the speakers.
Inside, the cabin mixes sporty elements with Fiat 600e familiarity: supportive seats hug during cornering, but some plastics feel budget-oriented. Keyless entry and advanced driver aids add convenience, though road noise intrudes constantly due to the low-profile tires and stiff setup.
Battery Range and Efficiency Realities
With a 54kWh battery, Abarth claims up to 199 miles of range, but real-world testing paints a different picture. Our average efficiency of 2.7-3.0 miles/kWh translates to about 137-160 miles per charge, impacted by cold weather, aggressive driving, and the car’s weight.
Charging is straightforward: 11kW AC for home use or up to 85kW DC for rapid top-ups, reaching 20-80% in around 30 minutes. The trip computer often overestimates range, requiring drivers to plan conservatively.
| Model Variant | Power | 0-62mph | Claimed Range | Real-World Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard 600e | 235bhp | 6.2s | 207 miles | ~3.0 mi/kWh |
| Scorpionissima | 278bhp | 5.8s | 199 miles | 2.7 mi/kWh |
Long-Term Ownership Insights
After accumulating over 8,000 miles since October 2025, the car has proven reliable with no major issues. Insurance falls in group 36E, with quotes around £1,031 annually. Running costs benefit from 0g/km CO2 emissions and a 3% benefit-in-kind tax rate.
- Mileage Update: 8,114 miles total
- Average Efficiency: 2.7 mi/kWh
- Price as Tested: £39,885 (no options)
- Pros: Razor-sharp handling, eye-catching supervillain styling, explosive acceleration
- Cons: Bouncy ride, pervasive cabin noise, modest range
Comparisons with Rivals
Against the standard Fiat 600e, the Abarth variant sacrifices 50 miles of range for enhanced dynamics. It outpaces the Mini Cooper SE in power but trails in efficiency. Traditionalists might prefer the petrol Abarth 595 for its characterful engine note, though the 600e offers zero-emission compliance.
Daily Driving Experience
Urban jaunts highlight the EV’s strengths: silent one-pedal driving in milder modes and effortless overtaking. Motorways expose weaknesses, with wind and tire roar dominating at speed. The sound generator helps, injecting personality, but can’t fully mask the electric hush.
Practicality is adequate for a hot hatch SUV: a 360-litre boot suits weekend loads, and rear seats accommodate adults for short trips. Tech includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, though the interface lags occasionally.
Future Updates and Verdict
As testing continues, we’ll monitor battery degradation and software tweaks. The Abarth 600e Scorpionissima excels as a fun, characterful EV for enthusiasts willing to tolerate its quirks. It’s not the most practical choice, but it reignites excitement in the small electric car segment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast is the Abarth 600e Scorpionissima?
It accelerates from 0-62mph in 5.8 seconds with 278bhp in full Scorpion Track mode.
What’s the real-world range?
Expect 137-160 miles based on 2.7-3.0 mi/kWh efficiency in mixed conditions.
Is the ride comfortable?
The firm suspension delivers sharp handling but feels unsettled on poor roads.
How does it compare to petrol Abarths?
It matches acceleration but lacks engine character, offset by synthetic sounds.
Any reliability issues so far?
None reported after 8,000+ miles.
References
- Abarth 600e Scorpionissima long-term test: sport mode adds a sting — Auto Express, Ellis Hyde. 2026-03-27. https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/abarth/600/abarth-600e-scorpionissima-long-term-test-ellis-hyde
- Hot new Abarth 600e performance outfits most powerful car ever — Auto Express. 2025. https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/abarth/364813/hot-new-abarth-600e-performance-outfits-most-powerful-car-ever
- Abarth 600e review — Auto Express. 2025. https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/abarth/600
- Abarth 600e Scorpionissima review — Carbuyer. 2025. https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/abarth/600e