Fiat is introducing a new variant of the 500 retro minicar to sit between the base 1.4-liter model and the high-performance Abarth.

The 2013 Fiat 500 Turbo sits between the two other 500s, offering 135 horsepower and 150 lb ft. of torque from its turbocharged 1.4-liter MulitAir gasoline engine.

In essence, it's an Abarth in all but name--the body kit, sports suspension, brakes and engine itself are all found on the range-topping Abarth, just in a greater state of tune.

You lose the racing stripes and Abarth badge too of course, but as a result it might appeal to the less extrovert among us--while looking less cutesy than the regular car. Audiophiles will appreciate the segment-exclusive Beats by Dr. Dre audio system included as standard.

With an MSRP of $19,500, Fiat says it's one of the cheapest turbocharged cars on sale in the U.S. And with highway fuel efficiency of 34 mpg, it shouldn't cost too much to run either.

This turbo may still be more about performance than it is gas mileage, but when it arrives this fall it's sure to offer the attractive combination of a fun drive, good performance and decent gas mileage--while undercutting similar choices like the Honda CR-Z and Hyundai Veloster Turbo.

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