The Bertone Runabout: A Modern Marvel Echoing Automotive Icons
For a decade, the automotive landscape has felt a palpable void where audacious design and genuine driving passion once resided. As an in
dustry insider with ten years immersed in the thrilling world of high-performance and bespoke vehicles, I’ve witnessed the ebb and flow of innovation, and frankly, much of it has become predictable. Yet, every so often, a whisper from the past ignites a fire of excitement, a reminder of what’s possible when heritage meets cutting-edge engineering. The revived Bertone, a name synonymous with some of the most breathtaking automotive designs in history, has done precisely that with the introduction of its latest creation: the Bertone Runabout.
This isn’t just another limited-run supercar; it’s a meticulously crafted homage, a modern interpretation of a legendary concept that has captivated enthusiasts for generations. The Bertone Runabout is a bold statement, blending nostalgic aesthetics with the raw performance DNA of a marque renowned for its prowess. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t merely pay lip service to its lineage; it actively embodies it, bringing the spirit of the original Bertone Runabout into the 21st century with an almost defiant flair.
The story of the Bertone Runabout truly begins in 1969. Back then, while names like Pininfarina often stole the spotlight for their elegant creations, Bertone possessed a distinct, often more aggressive, design language that was equally captivating. The original concept, unveiled at the Turin Auto Show for Autobianchi, was a mid-engine barchetta – a purist’s dream. It eschewed practicality for pure driving exhilaration, powered by a humble Autobianchi A111 sedan engine paired with a four-speed manual. Its design was heavily influenced by nautical themes, featuring a striking wedge shape, a daring two-tone paint scheme, and a distinctive rear rollover bar that cleverly housed its headlights. This concept was more than just a showpiece; it was a vision that resonated deeply within the industry. So impactful was its design that Fiat adopted it as the foundational blueprint for the iconic Fiat X1/9, a mid-engine sports car that graced roads from 1972 to 1982 under the Fiat badge and continued its legacy as a Bertone from 1982 to 1989.
Now, a decade after navigating the turbulent waters of bankruptcy and emerging with renewed vigor, the revitalized Bertone brand is making its mark. Following their successful GB110, the Bertone Runabout emerges as their second limited-edition offering, and it’s a truly special machine. This modern iteration is not merely a concept; it’s a tangible reality, slated for a production run of just 25 units. With a price point reflecting its exclusivity and engineering prowess, starting at the equivalent of $464,000 (€390,000), this is a vehicle for the discerning collector and the passionate driver.
The genius of the Bertone Runabout lies in its sophisticated blend of classic inspiration and contemporary engineering. The foundation of this extraordinary vehicle is built upon the celebrated chassis of the Lotus Exige. However, Bertone hasn’t simply bolted a new body onto an existing platform. Instead, they’ve procured pristine, unused (virgin) all-aluminum chassis from Lotus. To these untouched skeletons, the bespoke Runabout body is expertly bonded, further augmented by an intricately designed extruded aluminum architecture. This approach ensures both structural integrity and the unique character that defines a Bertone.
Underpinning the Bertone Runabout’s thrilling performance is a powerhouse sourced from the esteemed Toyota. It’s a supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, a unit that has proven its mettle in various high-performance applications. Bertone has further refined this already potent powerplant, fitting it with a custom exhaust system that liberates an impressive up to 475 horsepower. Each of the 25 Bertone Runabout models will be road-legal, boasting a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), underscoring the bespoke nature of every single example.
While the original Autobianchi Runabout concept’s integrated headlights on the rollover bar were undeniably cool, modern safety regulations would likely deem them impractical, if not outright illegal, for road use. The Bertone Runabout pays a brilliant tribute to its X1/9 successor by incorporating a classic design element: pop-up headlights. This nostalgic touch adds a significant layer of retro charm, a visual cue that immediately transports one back to the golden age of sports car design. Furthermore, in keeping with the spirit of its ancestors, the Runabout offers a choice between a pure, open barchetta configuration, mirroring the original concept’s form, or a more versatile targa top, reminiscent of the X1/9. Owners will also be afforded an exceptional level of personalization, with the ability to specify a vast array of materials, colors, textures, and finishes, ensuring that each Bertone Runabout is a truly individual expression of its owner’s taste.
Stepping inside the Bertone Runabout is an experience in itself. The two-seater cockpit is a masterclass in functional artistry. The dashboard design evokes the tactile feel of boat decking, a subtle nod to the nautical inspirations of the original concept. At its heart lies a functional compass, a charming and unique detail that further enhances the vehicle’s distinct character. The gated six-speed manual shifter is a mechanical marvel, with its exposed linkages offering a visceral connection to the car’s powertrain – a feature increasingly rare in today’s automated world. This is an interior designed not just for comfort but for engagement, for a driver who appreciates the mechanical ballet of a true sports car.
The heart of the beast, the Toyota V-6, breathes through an Eaton/Edelbrock TVS supercharger system. This forced induction setup includes an integrated charge-air cooler, ensuring optimal performance under demanding conditions. Mirroring the layout of the now-discontinued Exige, the engine is mounted transversely, driving a formidable set of 19-inch forged aluminum rear wheels. The front wheels, slightly smaller at 18 inches, contribute to the car’s balanced stance and agile handling. Bertone estimates the Bertone Runabout will launch from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.0 seconds, with a top speed of approximately 168 mph. These figures are not just numbers; they represent a promise of exhilarating performance that lives up to the car’s evocative design.
The sheer desirability of a vehicle like the Bertone Runabout is undeniable, especially for those seeking the pinnacle of Italian sports car craftsmanship and retro automotive design. For collectors searching for exclusive supercars for sale or those interested in limited edition performance vehicles, the Runabout presents a compelling proposition. The attention to detail, the blend of heritage and modern engineering, and the rarity of its production run place it in a category of its own. For enthusiasts in regions where such bespoke creations are highly sought after, such as the Los Angeles exotic car market or Miami luxury vehicle auctions, the anticipation for such a vehicle is immense.
While Bertone has yet to announce a precise timeline for production commencement or confirm any US imports for the 25 units, the buzz surrounding the Bertone Runabout is palpable. Its public debut at the prestigious 2026 Retromobile auto show in Paris, held at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from January 29th to February 1st, offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness this automotive masterpiece firsthand. Visitors will have the chance to see the modern Bertone Runabout displayed at the Ultimate Supercar Garage, sharing the spotlight with the equally impressive Bertone GB110 and, crucially, the original 1969 Autobianchi concept. This curated presentation will undoubtedly highlight the unbroken thread of design innovation that has defined Bertone for decades.
The Bertone Runabout is more than just a car; it’s a testament to the enduring power of automotive passion and design excellence. It’s a vehicle that speaks to the soul of the enthusiast, offering a tangible connection to automotive history while delivering the visceral thrill of modern performance. For those who appreciate the artistry of classic car revival projects and the allure of bespoke automotive engineering, the Runabout represents the realization of a dream. It’s a stark reminder that even in an era of mass production and algorithmic design, there remains an insatiable appetite for vehicles that possess character, soul, and an undeniable sense of occasion.
The resurgence of Bertone, with offerings like the Bertone Runabout, signals a promising new chapter for the brand and for automotive enthusiasts worldwide. It’s an invitation to rediscover the joy of driving, to embrace the exquisite fusion of form and function, and to own a piece of automotive history that is both timeless and thrillingly contemporary.
Are you ready to experience the allure of automotive heritage reborn? Explore the world of bespoke and limited-edition vehicles, and discover how you can become a part of the next chapter in automotive legend.
