Can’t decide between a hot hatch and a yacht? There is the Abarth 695 Rivale



There’s something about well-rounded hot hatches that just triggers the eager, heavy-footed 18-year old in us. While most perky hatch backs appear racey and raw, vibrant and audacious, the limited edition Abarth 695 Rivale offers a middle ground between enthusiastic and luxury driving.

The Abarth 695 Rivale is the result of a collaboration with luxury yacht builder Riva whose success in the 1920’s and 30’s, coupled with Abarth’s prominence in the 1950’s and 60’s – offers a blend of style, performance and craftsmanship in the most sophisticated and refined Abarth ever built.

Powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, it produces 178 hp with 250 Nm of torque – capable of getting to a 100 km/h from standstill in just 6.7 seconds with a top speed of 223 km/h. Its transmission comes in the form of a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed robotised sequential gearbox.

An Akrapovic with carbon tailpipes ensures that the 695 Rivale will be heard at full scream. Stopping power is provided by 4-pot Brembo brakes along with a Koni suspension system tucked underneath its grey 17-inch Supersport wheels.

Inside, a combination of exclusive styling and premium materials pays tribute to the new open ’56 Rivale’ luxury yacht. A 7-inch U connect touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto takes centre stage while the trademark Riva two-tone Sera Blue and Shark Grey colour scheme with Aquamarine double-stripe beauty line represents a thin line of sea on the horizon.


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