Bertone Runabout: A Modern Masterpiece of Retro Automotive Design Reimagined for the Enthusiast Driver
The allure of automotive history is a potent force, especially for those who appreciate the artis
try and engineering that defined bygone eras. For decades, design houses like Pininfarina have rightfully earned acclaim for their iconic creations. However, the legendary Italian atelier Bertone, known for its daring and often avant-garde designs, has always possessed a unique flair for the dramatic. Emerging from a period of significant transition a decade ago, Bertone is now poised to reignite its legacy with the introduction of its second limited-edition vehicle: the Bertone Runabout. This exquisite sports car is not merely a nostalgic nod to the past; it’s a contemporary interpretation, a fusion of a captivating 1969 concept with the blistering performance and sophisticated underpinnings of modern automotive engineering.
The genesis of the original Bertone Runabout dates back to 1969, when it debuted at the Turin Auto Show as a vision for Autobianchi. This mid-engine barchetta, conceived with a distinct nautical influence, showcased a striking wedge-shaped silhouette, a distinctive two-tone paint scheme, and a prominent rear rollover hoop integrated with its signature pop-up headlights. Powering this concept was an engine sourced from the Autobianchi A111 sedan, paired with a four-speed transmission. The design’s undeniable charisma and forward-thinking aesthetic were so impactful that Fiat adopted its core principles, leading to the development of the X1/9. This iconic mid-engine sports car, produced under the Fiat banner from 1972 to 1982 and subsequently as a Bertone from 1982 to 1989, cemented the Runabout’s place in automotive lore and demonstrated the enduring appeal of its foundational design.
Fast forward to the present, and the revived Bertone is not simply teasing a concept; they are bringing the Bertone Runabout to life as a tangible, limited-production reality. With only 25 units slated for creation, this exclusive sports car represents the pinnacle of bespoke automotive craftsmanship, with a price point reflecting its rarity and the meticulous attention to detail involved. Each Bertone Runabout will command an investment equivalent to approximately $464,000 (or €390,000), a testament to its exclusive nature and the advanced engineering it incorporates.
At the heart of this modern marvel lies a sophisticated and potent powertrain. Bertone has masterfully integrated the chassis and engine from the acclaimed Lotus Exige, ensuring a foundation of exceptional handling and performance. Crucially, these are not pre-used components. Bertone procures virgin, unblemished Lotus Exige chassis, upon which the bespoke Runabout body is meticulously bonded. Further structural integrity is achieved through the addition of extruded aluminum architecture, creating a lightweight yet incredibly rigid platform.
The powerplant driving the Bertone Runabout is a formidable, supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, directly sourced from Toyota’s proven engineering arsenal. This robust unit has been further enhanced with a custom exhaust system, unleashing an impressive output of up to 475 horsepower. The result is a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined, offering a symphony of power and precise control. Each of the 25 Bertone Runabout vehicles will be classified for road use, bearing a completely unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), underscoring the individuality of every single example.
While the original Autobianchi Runabout’s unique, fixed headlight design, likely non-compliant with modern regulations, is not directly replicated, the modern iteration pays homage to its spiritual successor, the Fiat X1/9, by incorporating classic pop-up headlights. This iconic feature not only recaptures a beloved design element but also contributes to the car’s aerodynamic efficiency. Further enhancing its versatility, the Bertone Runabout can be configured as a pure, open-air barchetta, mirroring the spirit of the original concept, or equipped with a sophisticated targa top, offering a nod to the X1/9’s popular configuration. Bertone’s commitment to personalization extends to the interior and exterior, with owners having the liberty to specify a vast array of materials, colors, textures, and finishes, allowing for unparalleled customization and ensuring each Bertone Runabout is a true reflection of its owner’s discerning taste. This level of bespoke detail is a hallmark of true luxury automotive experiences.
Stepping inside the Bertone Runabout is an immersion into a world where form and function coalesce with elegant simplicity. The two-seater cockpit exudes a refined ambiance. The dashboard design features a unique “decking-like” aesthetic, a subtle yet effective nod to the car’s nautical inspirations. Central to this design is a functional compass, a charming and practical touch that further enhances the car’s unique character. The driver’s interface is equally captivating, with a gated six-speed manual shifter that proudly displays its exposed mechanicals. This tactile and engaging gear selection mechanism provides a direct connection to the vehicle’s performance and evokes the raw mechanical artistry of classic sports cars.
The supercharged Toyota V-6 is equipped with an Eaton/Edelbrock TVS supercharger system, complete with an integrated charge-air cooler. This advanced forced induction system ensures consistent power delivery and optimal engine performance. Similar to the now-discontinued Exige, the engine is mounted transversely, driving the rear wheels. The Runabout features a staggered wheel setup: 19-inch forged aluminum wheels at the rear and 18-inch counterparts at the front, striking a perfect balance between aggressive stance and agile handling. Bertone projects that the Bertone Runabout will achieve a breathtaking 0–60 mph acceleration time of approximately 4.0 seconds, with a projected top speed of 168 mph. These figures place it firmly in the realm of high-performance sports cars, capable of delivering an adrenaline-fueled driving experience on both road and track.
While Bertone has not yet announced a definitive production timeline or confirmed specific import plans for the United States market, the Bertone Runabout is set to make its public debut at the prestigious 2026 Retromobile auto show, held at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from January 29th to February 1st. Attendees will have the opportunity to witness this automotive masterpiece firsthand at the Ultimate Supercar Garage exhibit. Alongside the Bertone Runabout, the display will also feature the striking Bertone GB110 and the original 1969 Autobianchi concept, offering a comprehensive retrospective of Bertone’s design evolution and its enduring influence on the automotive landscape. This showcase promises to be a pilgrimage for automotive aficionados seeking to connect with the past and celebrate the future of iconic design.
The emergence of the Bertone Runabout is more than just the launch of a new car; it signifies the triumphant resurgence of a legendary marque, a testament to the enduring power of visionary design, and a celebration of pure driving pleasure. For those who yearn for the soul of classic sports cars combined with the performance and refinement of modern engineering, the Bertone Runabout represents an unparalleled opportunity. This exclusive vehicle offers a unique blend of heritage, innovation, and exquisite craftsmanship, creating a truly special automotive statement.
If you find yourself captivated by the blend of retro charm and modern performance that the Bertone Runabout embodies, and you are seeking an automotive experience that transcends the ordinary, this is an invitation to explore further. Discover how this exceptional creation can become a cornerstone of your personal automotive collection. Contact your authorized Bertone representative or a specialist luxury car dealer to learn more about securing your place among the fortunate few who will own a piece of this automotive renaissance.
