Bertone Runabout: A Modern Masterpiece Echoing Automotive History
For a decade, I’ve navigated the dynamic currents of the automotive industry, witnessing firsthand the ebb and flow of design philosophies
, engineering breakthroughs, and the enduring allure of automotive passion. It’s within this context that the reborn Bertone brand’s latest offering, the Bertone Runabout, emerges not merely as a new car, but as a poignant testament to heritage, reimagined for the 21st century. This limited-edition sports car, deeply rooted in a visionary concept from 1969, showcases a remarkable fusion of classic aesthetics, modern performance, and the distinct Italian flair that Bertone has always championed.
For decades, the hallowed halls of automotive design have often been dominated by titans like Pininfarina. Yet, Bertone, with its own rich legacy of audacious and captivating creations, understood the art of the spectacular. Now, a decade after navigating the turbulent waters of bankruptcy and re-emerging as a revitalized entity, Bertone is poised to captivate enthusiasts once again with the Runabout. This exquisite sports car draws inspiration from its 1969 progenitor, a design that was both avant-garde for its time and remarkably prescient, cleverly updated with the thrilling addition of pop-up headlights and a sophisticated chassis sourced from the renowned Lotus Exige.
The genesis of the original Runabout concept lies in the esteemed Turin Auto Show of 1969, a creation conceived for Autobianchi. It was envisioned as a mid-engine barchetta, a purist’s dream, powered by an engine derived from the Autobianchi A111 sedan and mated to a four-speed manual transmission. Its design was imbued with a distinctly nautical influence, evident in its sharp, wedge-shaped silhouette, a striking two-tone paint scheme, and a distinctive rear rollover bar that housed its iconic headlights. The brilliance of this design was such that Fiat, recognizing its immense potential, adopted it as the foundational blueprint for the X1/9. This mid-engine sports car enjoyed a successful run under the Fiat banner from 1972 to 1982, subsequently continuing its journey as a Bertone from 1982 to 1989, solidifying its place in automotive folklore.
This modern iteration of the Bertone Runabout transcends the realm of mere concept; it is destined for production. Bertone has committed to manufacturing a mere 25 units, each a bespoke work of art, with a price point starting in the vicinity of $464,000 (or €390,000). The foundational architecture – the chassis and the powerplant – are directly sourced from the Lotus Exige, meticulously integrated without extensive modification to preserve their inherent excellence. These all-aluminum chassis are acquired as pristine, unused components, forming the virgin canvas onto which the Runabout’s distinctive bodywork is expertly bonded, further augmented by supplementary extruded aluminum structural elements. This approach ensures a robust and lightweight foundation, critical for a performance-oriented vehicle.
The heart of this modern marvel is a supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, a powerhouse of Japanese engineering sourced directly from Toyota. This potent mill, enhanced with a custom-tuned exhaust system, unleashes an impressive 475 horsepower. Each Bertone Runabout produced will be granted a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), underscoring the individuality and exclusivity of these 25 examples, and will be certified for road use, meeting stringent automotive regulations.
While the unconventional, fixed headlights of the original Autobianchi Runabout are unlikely to meet modern road legality standards, the contemporary version pays homage to its lineage with the revival of pop-up headlights. This nod to the beloved Fiat X1/9 injects a significant dose of retro charm. The Bertone Runabout can be configured as a pure, open-air barchetta, mirroring the spirit of the original concept, or it can be optioned with a targa top, offering a delightful compromise akin to the X1/9. Further enhancing its bespoke nature, owners will have the unparalleled ability to personalize their Runabout through an extensive array of material choices, color palettes, textural finishes, and exterior accents, allowing for a truly individual expression of automotive taste. This level of customization is a hallmark of true luxury and bespoke craftsmanship.
The interior of this two-seater cockpit is a carefully curated space that blends functionality with a striking aesthetic. The dashboard evokes the texture and appearance of a ship’s deck, a subtle yet effective nod to the nautical influences of the original design. Centrally positioned is a functional compass, a charming detail that further reinforces the theme. Adding to the mechanical theatre, the gated six-speed manual shifter proudly displays its exposed mechanical linkages, a visual treat for any enthusiast who appreciates the artistry of intricate engineering. This tactile and visual engagement is a key element in the Bertone Runabout’s unique appeal.
The Toyota V-6 engine benefits from forced induction via an Eaton/Edelbrock TVS supercharger system, complete with an integrated charge-air cooler for optimal performance. Much like the now-discontinued Lotus Exige, the engine is mounted transversely, its power being delivered to the rear wheels. These are clad in substantial 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, with the front wheels measuring 18 inches. Bertone’s projections suggest the Bertone Runabout will achieve a brisk 0-60 mph acceleration in approximately 4.0 seconds, with a top speed reaching an exhilarating 168 mph. These performance figures place it firmly in the realm of serious sports cars, capable of delivering thrilling driving dynamics.
Bertone has yet to announce a definitive production timeline for the Bertone Runabout, nor have they confirmed if any of the limited 25 units will be officially imported to the United States. Enthusiasts eager to witness this automotive revival firsthand will have the opportunity to see the modern Bertone Runabout at the prestigious 2026 Retromobile auto show, held at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from January 29th to February 1st. It will be prominently displayed within the Ultimate Supercar Garage, sharing the spotlight with the Bertone GB110 and, fittingly, the original 1969 Autobianchi concept that started it all. This presentation at a global stage underscores the significance of the Bertone Runabout as a noteworthy addition to the landscape of automotive excellence and collectible cars.
For collectors and driving aficionados seeking a machine that transcends mere transportation and embodies a rich automotive narrative, the Bertone Runabout represents an extraordinary opportunity. Its fusion of iconic design elements, proven performance, and meticulous craftsmanship positions it as a highly desirable collectible. This limited-run vehicle is more than just a car; it is a piece of automotive art, a tangible link to a storied past, and a bold statement for the future.
If you’re captivated by the idea of owning a piece of automotive history, meticulously engineered for the modern era, we invite you to explore the exclusive world of the Bertone Runabout. Discover the possibilities of custom specification and consider how this remarkable machine could become the centerpiece of your collection. Contact us to learn more about this unique opportunity to secure one of these exceptional vehicles and embark on an unforgettable driving journey.
