The new Fiat 124 Spider is set to bring the authentic, Italian roadster driving experience to a new generation of British enthusiasts with prices starting at £19,545 on the road.

The profile view is pure classic roadster, with its long wheelbase, a cockpit hunkered low near the driven rear axle and a long bonnet – inspired by the 1966 original.

To minimise weight, improve longevity and encourage spur-of-the-moment open-air driving experiences, the multi-layer canvas hood operates manually in seconds using minimal force and without the driver having to leave their seat.

Under the long bonnet is the proven 140hp 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine with a six-speed manual transmission and drive to the rear wheels. The Fiat 124 Spider is capable of accelerating to 62mph in just 7.5 seconds and has a top speed of 134mph.

Three trim levels will be offered – Classica, Lusso and Lusso Plus.

The £19,545 Classica includes four airbags, air conditioning, leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio controls, cruise control with speed limiter, 16in alloy wheels, keyless ignition and Bluetooth connectivity.

Lusso, at £22,295, adds a seven-inch infotainment system, satellite navigation, rear parking camera, 17in alloys, heated leather seats, automatic climate control, front fog lamps and keyless entry.

The £23,295 Lusso Plus has adaptive LED headlamps and LED daytime running lights, automatic lights and wipers and a nine-speaker BOSE sound system.