Bertone Runabout: A Modern Homage to Italian Automotive Artistry with a Pop-Up Headlight Flair
For decades, automotive enthusiasts have gravitated towards designs that not only perform but also tell a sto
ry. In the pantheon of iconic design houses, Bertone has always held a special place, synonymous with audacious concepts and impeccably sculpted production vehicles. Now, a decade after navigating a challenging period of restructuring, the revived Italian marque is making a significant statement with its second limited-edition offering: the Bertone Runabout. This captivating sports car is not merely a revival; it’s a meticulously crafted modern interpretation, drawing inspiration from a seminal 1969 Bertone design, yet infused with contemporary engineering prowess and a delightful nod to a beloved automotive era – the pop-up headlight.
Tracing the Roots: From Turin to the Streets
The lineage of the Bertone Runabout is deeply intertwined with automotive history, tracing back to a revolutionary concept unveiled at the 1969 Turin Auto Show. Commissioned by Autobianchi, this original Runabout was conceived as a mid-engine barchetta, powered by the engine from an Autobianchi A111 sedan and a four-speed gearbox. Its design was a masterclass in automotive aesthetics, featuring nautical influences that manifested in a striking wedge-shaped body, a distinctive two-tone paint scheme, and a prominent rear rollover hoop. The headlights, mounted regally on this hoop, added to its futuristic yet elegant profile. The impact of this design was undeniable; its innovative blueprint proved so influential that Fiat adopted it as the foundation for the X1/9, a mid-engine sports car that enjoyed a successful production run under the Fiat banner from 1972 to 1982, and later as a Bertone from 1982 to 1989. This legacy is precisely what the modern Bertone Runabout seeks to honor, not just in spirit but in tangible form.
Engineering Excellence Meets Timeless Design
The contemporary Bertone Runabout transcends the realm of mere concept cars. Bertone has confirmed plans for a highly exclusive production run of just 25 units, with pricing commencing at an equivalent of $464,000 (approximately €390,000). What sets this iteration apart is its sophisticated integration of modern performance with classic aesthetics. The chassis and powertrain are sourced directly from the renowned Lotus Exige, but with a crucial distinction: these are not repurposed components. Bertone procures pristine, “virgin” aluminum chassis – units that have never been incorporated into a production vehicle. To this immaculate foundation, the bespoke Runabout body is then meticulously bonded, augmented by an additional extruded aluminum architecture for enhanced rigidity and structural integrity. This approach ensures a pure, uncompromised starting point for each handcrafted automobile.
At the heart of the Bertone Runabout beats a formidable 3.5-liter V-6 engine, supercharged and directly sourced from Toyota. This potent powerplant has been thoughtfully refined with a custom exhaust system, unleashing an impressive output of up to 475 horsepower. Each of the 25 Bertone Runabouts produced will receive a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), signifying their bespoke nature and road-legal classification. This meticulous attention to detail underscores Bertone’s commitment to exclusivity and quality in every aspect of the vehicle.
A Modern Interpretation with Iconic Touches
While the distinctive, hoop-mounted headlights of the original Autobianchi Runabout are unlikely to meet modern road-legal standards, the contemporary interpretation pays homage to their spirit. The new Bertone Runabout boldly features pop-up headlights, a design flourish that evokes the beloved Fiat X1/9 and countless other iconic sports cars of the era. This nostalgic element is seamlessly integrated, offering a visually striking and functionally effective solution.
Owners will have the unparalleled opportunity to personalize their Runabout to an extraordinary degree. The vehicle can be configured as a pure, open-air barchetta, mirroring the audacious spirit of the original concept, or equipped with a stylish targa top, reminiscent of the X1/9. Beyond body styles, Bertone offers an extensive palette of customization options, allowing clients to select from a diverse range of premium materials, sophisticated color palettes, luxurious textures, and exquisite finishes. This ensures that each Bertone Runabout is a unique expression of its owner’s discerning taste.
An Interior Crafted for the Driving Enthusiast
Stepping inside the two-seater cockpit of the Bertone Runabout is an experience in itself. The dashboard design adopts a unique “decking-like” aesthetic, evoking a sense of nautical elegance. At its focal point lies a functional compass, a subtle yet charming nod to the car’s heritage. The gear shifter, a crisp, gated six-speed manual, proudly displays its exposed mechanicals, a tactile and visual testament to the raw, engaging driving experience that awaits. This combination of refined design and mechanical honesty defines the interior ambiance.
The heart of the powertrain’s performance lies in the supercharged Toyota V-6. It utilizes an Eaton/Edelbrock TVS supercharger system, complete with an integrated charge-air cooler, ensuring optimal efficiency and power delivery. Much like the now-discontinued Exige, the engine is mounted transversely, driving a set of impressive 19-inch forged aluminum rear wheels. The front wheels, equally stylish, measure 18 inches. Bertone estimates the Runabout will achieve a brisk 0-60 mph sprint in approximately 4.0 seconds, with a top speed reaching up to 168 mph. These performance figures, combined with the car’s lightweight construction and sophisticated handling dynamics, promise an exhilarating driving experience that lives up to the legacy of its predecessors.
A Glimpse into the Future of Automotive Craftsmanship
While Bertone has not yet announced a definitive production timeline for the Runabout, or confirmed potential importation into specific markets like the United States, the anticipation is palpable. Enthusiasts will have the chance to witness the modern Bertone Runabout in person at the prestigious 2026 Retromobile auto show, held at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from January 29th to February 1st. The vehicle will be proudly displayed within the Ultimate Supercar Garage pavilion, alongside the impressive Bertone GB110 and the original 1969 Autobianchi concept that started it all. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the evolution of Bertone’s design philosophy and the enduring allure of Italian automotive artistry.
The resurgence of the Bertone brand, underscored by vehicles like the Runabout, signifies more than just a return; it’s a bold declaration of intent to redefine exclusivity and craftsmanship in the modern automotive landscape. For those seeking a vehicle that blends a rich heritage with cutting-edge performance and a timeless aesthetic, the Bertone Runabout presents an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of automotive history reimagined for the 21st century.
If you’re captivated by this blend of heritage, performance, and exquisite design, and yearn to explore the possibility of owning a truly exceptional automobile, we invite you to connect with our specialist team to learn more about the Bertone Runabout and the exclusive ownership experience it offers.
