2022 Abarth 695 Turismo S-A 1.4L Petrol · GL53 EGS

A clean MOT pass with zero advisories and zero defects recorded on 13 October 2025 is the hallmark of a mechanically sound Abarth 695, and the only irregularity in the file is a simultaneous fail entry logged on the same date. Where paired pass and fail records appear on identical dates, this typically reflects a minor rectification carried out during the same visit, with the vehicle subsequently re-presented and passed within hours rather than indicating a serious safety or emissions issue. With no recorded advisories across either test, there is no documented wear pattern on suspension components, brake systems, tyres, exhaust integrity, or corrosion to draw concern from. The roadworthiness record, as far as DVSA testing is concerned, is essentially unblemished. At four years old, 21,021 recorded miles equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 5,255 miles, which is substantially below the typical mileage for a city-oriented performance hatchback. This low annual figure suggests the car has either seen predominantly short, gentle use or has spent significant periods off the road between drives. Lower annual mileage can mean less wear on the clutch, dual-mass flywheel, brake discs, and suspension bushes, all of which are wear-sensitive items on the 695, but it can equally mean periods of standing where rubber components, fluid seals, and the turbo system may not have been regularly exercised. The mileage gap since the last MOT suggests roughly 12,000 to 13,000 miles per year over the most recent 12 months, which is a notable increase and worth asking about directly, as it could indicate a change in usage pattern or a more demanding duty cycle such as extended commuting or spirited driving. Given the absence of specific advisories, the inspection focus should shift to the areas most prone to wear on the 695 Turismo, particularly the rear suspension, exhaust, and interior trim condition. On a test drive, listen for clonks or thuds from the rear axle over uneven surfaces, as the torsion beam and its mounting bushes are known to wear and can produce a characteristic rear-end knock. Feel for any vagueness through the steering rack or uneven tyre wear across the rear axle, which can indicate alignment issues or worn rear trailing arm bushes. Pay attention to the operation of the automated manual gearbox, ensuring shifts are smooth and timely rather than hesitant or jarring, as mechatronic unit wear and clutch slip on the S-A (Sequential Automatic) transmission can be costly to remedy. Inspect the underside for any signs of fluid weeping around the turbo oil feed and return lines, as well as the rear silencer mounting, both common ageing points on this model. Finally, examine the condition of the brake discs and pads directly, as the MOT record does not capture pad life remaining. Check the front discs for a pronounced lip on the outer edge and the rear for any scoring or corrosion pitting, as the rear drum-in-disc or solid disc setup on the 695 can develop surface corrosion through infrequent use. Verify that all warning lamps extinguish promptly on ignition, including the tyre pressure monitoring system, as sensor batteries deplete with age. Inspect the cabin for any damp smells or misting windows, which would suggest heater matrix or air conditioning evaporator seal degradation, and confirm that the infotainment system and parking sensors function correctly. With a clean MOT history and reasonable mileage, this Abarth presents as a low-risk proposition, but a thorough physical inspection and a compression check via the diagnostic port would be prudent given the turbocharged nature of the 1.4 T-Jet engine.