The Bertone Runabout: A Modern Masterpiece Reviving a Retro Icon with Exige Soul
For decades, the automotive design world has been dominated by a select few Italian stalwarts, their names synonymous wit
h breathtaking concepts and iconic production cars. Yet, lurking in the shadows of these titans, Bertone, a marque synonymous with audacious design, has always possessed a unique flair for the dramatic. Now, a decade after navigating turbulent financial waters, the revitalized Italian design house is poised to make a significant statement with its second limited-edition offering: the Bertone Runabout. This isn’t merely a nostalgic nod; it’s a meticulously crafted sports car that elegantly bridges the past and the present, tracing its lineage back to a groundbreaking 1969 concept while embracing modern engineering and, yes, those coveted pop-up headlights.
As an industry professional with a decade immersed in the automotive landscape, I’ve witnessed countless retrospectives and reinterpretations. However, the Bertone Runabout stands apart. It’s a rare instance where heritage is not just referenced but vibrantly reimagined, delivering an experience that resonates with both seasoned collectors and contemporary enthusiasts. This vehicle isn’t just about a stylish exterior; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of pure driving dynamics and distinctive design.
From Turin Concept to Modern Marvel: The Evolution of the Runabout
The genesis of the Bertone Runabout lies in the fertile ground of the 1969 Turin Auto Show. Commissioned by Autobianchi, this pioneering mid-engine barchetta was a bold declaration of intent. Powered by a modest Autobianchi A111 sedan engine and a four-speed gearbox, its true innovation was its audacious styling. Inspired by nautical aesthetics, the wedge-shaped body, a striking two-tone paint scheme, and a prominent rear rollover bar housing the headlights created an unforgettable presence. The impact of this concept was profound. Its innovative mid-engine layout and aesthetic principles were so compelling that Fiat adopted them as the foundation for the iconic Fiat X1/9, a mid-engine sports car that enjoyed a successful production run from 1972 to 1982 under the Fiat banner, and later as a Bertone from 1982 to 1989. This lineage imbues the modern Bertone Runabout with a rich historical narrative, a story of innovation and enduring design.
The Modern Interpretation: Uncompromising Performance Meets Timeless Style
The contemporary Bertone Runabout transcends mere concept status; it is a tangible testament to Bertone’s renewed vision. With a production run strictly limited to 25 units, each vehicle is an exclusive artifact. Priced at the equivalent of $464,000 (or €390,000), this is an investment in automotive artistry. What truly sets this modern iteration apart is its sophisticated underpinnings. Bertone has ingeniously integrated the chassis and powertrain of the Lotus Exige, a benchmark for lightweight sports car performance. However, these are not simply borrowed components; they are virgin pieces, meticulously bonded to a newly crafted body structure and further reinforced with extruded aluminum architecture. This approach ensures structural integrity and a bespoke feel, characteristic of true artisanal craftsmanship.
The heart of the Bertone Runabout is a potent, supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, sourced directly from Toyota. This powerhouse, a known quantity for its reliability and exhilarating performance, has been fettled by Bertone to deliver an impressive up to 475 horsepower. A custom exhaust system ensures that this power is not only delivered with vigor but also accompanied by an evocative soundtrack. Crucially, each of the 25 Bertone Runabout models will be classified for road use, each bearing a unique VIN, affirming its legitimate place on public roads. This attention to detail underscores Bertone’s commitment to producing not just showpieces, but fully functional, street-legal hypercars.
Design Flourishes: Pop-Ups, Barchetta Forms, and Bespoke Interiors
While the unique, integrated headlights of the original Autobianchi Runabout, which might face regulatory hurdles today, are absent, the modern Bertone Runabout pays homage to its predecessor and the beloved Fiat X1/9 with the inclusion of classic pop-up headlights. This is a detail that instantly sparks joy and a sense of nostalgia among automotive aficionados. The versatility of the Runabout’s design is further highlighted by its configuration options. It can be specified as a pure, open barchetta, mirroring the spirit of the original concept, or equipped with a targa top, echoing the popular iteration of the X1/9.
Beyond these core design elements, Bertone offers an unparalleled level of customization. Owners will have the freedom to meticulously spec their Bertone Runabout with an extensive array of materials, colors, textures, and finishes. This bespoke approach ensures that each vehicle is a unique expression of its owner’s personal taste, elevating the car from a mere mode of transportation to a truly personalized work of art. This level of personalization is a key differentiator in today’s market for exclusive vehicles, appealing to buyers seeking an unparalleled ownership experience.
An Interior Crafted for the Driver: Functionality Meets Finesse
The interior of the Bertone Runabout is a carefully curated space designed to immerse the driver in the driving experience. The two-seater cabin features a dashboard with a distinctive decking-like aesthetic, a subtle nod to the nautical influences of the original concept. Central to this design is a functional compass, a charming and practical detail that reinforces the vehicle’s unique character. The tactile sensation of the gated six-speed manual shifter, with its exposed mechanicals, is a pure delight for driving purists, offering a tangible connection to the car’s mechanical heart. This emphasis on mechanical engagement is a welcome counterpoint to the increasingly digitized interiors found in many modern sports cars.
Underneath the bespoke exterior lies a performance-oriented powertrain that belies the car’s retro charm. The Toyota V-6 engine benefits from an Eaton/Edelbrock TVS supercharger system, complete with an integrated charge-air cooler. This sophisticated setup ensures optimal power delivery and efficiency. True to the spirit of the now-discontinued Exige, the engine is mounted transversely, driving power to the rear wheels. These are shod with 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, while the front wheels measure 18 inches. Bertone’s performance estimates are ambitious: a brisk 0–60 mph sprint in approximately 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 168 mph. These figures place the Bertone Runabout firmly in the performance category, capable of delivering exhilarating driving dynamics that match its striking appearance.
The Future is Now: Availability and Public Debut
While Bertone has not yet announced a definitive production timeline for the Bertone Runabout, anticipation is building. The opportunity to own one of these 25 exclusive vehicles will undoubtedly be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. There is also considerable interest in whether any of these exclusive models will be made available for import to the United States market, a key region for high-performance and limited-edition automobiles.
For those eager to witness this automotive marvel firsthand, the modern Bertone Runabout is slated for a prominent public debut at the prestigious 2026 Retromobile auto show, held at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from January 29th to February 1st. Here, it will be displayed within the Ultimate Supercar Garage, sharing the spotlight with the equally impressive Bertone GB110 and, fittingly, the original 1969 Autobianchi concept that started it all. This exhibition promises to be a highlight of the show, offering a comprehensive look at Bertone’s design legacy and its triumphant return.
The revival of the Bertone Runabout represents more than just the reintroduction of a nameplate; it’s a declaration of Bertone’s enduring design philosophy and engineering prowess. It’s a vehicle that speaks to the soul of driving, combining retro aesthetics with cutting-edge performance and bespoke luxury. For those who appreciate the artistry of automotive design and the thrill of a pure driving experience, the Bertone Runabout is not just a car—it’s a future classic, an attainable dream for the discerning collector.
Are you captivated by the exquisite blend of heritage and innovation embodied by the Bertone Runabout? Explore your options for owning a piece of automotive history and discuss bespoke customization possibilities for this extraordinary limited-edition sports car by contacting our specialist consultants today.
