Fiat has quietly ceased the distribution of the 124 Spider in the United Kingdom, merely two years after its debut. The sudden removal of the Mazda-based convertible from their UK website was first observed by Autocar. Nonetheless, the more performance-oriented Abarth variant is still accessible.
Although Fiat Chrysler has yet to provide reasoning behind this decision, Autocar speculates that the withdrawal may be related to the more stringent WLTP emissions standards in Europe. The cost of upgrading the outdated 1.4-liter Multiair turbo engine of the 124 to meet legal requirements in 2019 might not have justified the investment.
According to the report, the other FCA models using this engine, namely the Alfa Romeo Giulietta and Jeep Renegade, have already transitioned to smaller and presumably more environmentally friendly engines.
The Drive has contacted Fiat U.K. for clarification, and updates will follow upon their response.
The Fiat 124 Spider shares a platform and interior design with the Mazda MX-5 but sets itself apart with unique engine and exterior styling. If Autocar‘s emission hypothesis is accurate, one wonders whether adopting Mazda’s enhanced 181-horsepower engine from the 2019 MX-5 could resolve the issue.
The 124 Spider produced 138 horsepower from its 1.4-liter unit, a figure that jumps to 164 in North America. The sportier Abarth version reaches 168 horsepower, features distinctive Abarth branding, a louder exhaust, and an optional black hood.
In the U.S., the starting price for the base model is $24,995.
