2017 Fiat 124 Spider release date, specs & design news: leaked photos show the Italian version of Mazda MX-5

• comments
• 
• 

It looks like the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have a tough competition once the Italian version makes its official debut. But, after leaked grainy photos have been released online, many fans cannot help but realize how similar the upcoming 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is to its competition. In fact, they are resembled each other too much that it will be difficult to tell which is which!

Auto Express reports that although Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne shared earlier this year that the new 124 Spider will be based on the MX-5, many cannot help argue that the design team of the mobile company appears to have not done anything.

The #Fiat 124 Spider has been spotted undisguised! What do you think from what we can see? https://t.co/3yrqRKVNel pic.twitter.com/UwJmV1WZqq

— Auto Express (@AutoExpress) September 29, 2015

The only thing that is noticeable different is the front-end which shows a slightly longer bonnet. Additionally, the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider appears to have the same jawline and headlamps as that of a BMW Z4. The rear end looks more like a tiny Dodge Viper, with a lip spoiler and double exhausts to finish the sports car look.

Even the interior appears to be similar, including the dashboard, console and center stack, Motor Trend adds. The 124 Spider will also have climate control systems and switchgear.

Of course, the probable reason behind the similarities with Mazda MX5 Miata maybe due to the joint venture Fiat had with Mazda, where the 124 Spider will be made at the same Mazda factory where the Miata will be made, Auto Express adds.

However, instead of Miata's 2.0L SkyActiv four-cylinder base, the 124 Spider will be offered at a lower 1.4L turbo four running at 180HP and a possible Abarth type with a 1.7L turbo four at 240 HP. The engine will be more than likely available in six-speed for the manual transmission and dual-clutch transmission while the Abarth version will have a dual-clutch gearbox.

The highly anticipated Abarth variant was confirmed by Fiat COO Alfredo Altavilla, Auto Guide writes. Altavilla teased that it will be a more extreme version of the 124 Spider, hoping to achieve race car look and power status with the Alfa Romeo 4C engine. This is where the Mazda MX-5 Miata will be defeated because the Japanese automaker stated that there will be no "hardcore" version of the Miata.

The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is slated to be unveiled this November at the 2015 LA Auto Show.