Bertone Runabout: A Revived Icon of Automotive Artistry Returns with Modern Prowess
The automotive landscape is a constantly evolving tapestry, yet certain designs possess an enduring allure, a timeless
elegance that transcends fleeting trends. For enthusiasts who appreciate this blend of historical reverence and cutting-edge engineering, the re-emergence of the Bertone Runabout is a moment of significant excitement. This reborn Italian sports car, meticulously crafted by the revived Bertone design house, pays homage to a celebrated 1969 concept while embracing contemporary performance and technology. Drawing on the sophisticated underpinnings of the Lotus Exige and the potent heart of a Toyota V-6, the Bertone Runabout is not merely a nostalgic exercise; it is a bold statement of automotive artistry for the discerning collector and driving purist.
For decades, names like Pininfarina and Giugiaro have often dominated discussions of iconic Italian automotive design. However, Bertone, a legendary styling studio with a rich heritage, has always harbored a flair for the dramatic and the avant-garde. Emerging from a challenging period, the resurrected Bertone is making a powerful statement with its second limited-edition release: the Bertone Runabout. This contemporary interpretation of a classic sports car concept, first conceived in 1969, injects modern dynamism with its signature pop-up headlights and a sophisticated chassis sourced from the acclaimed Lotus Exige.
The genesis of the original Runabout dates back to the 1969 Turin Auto Show, where Bertone unveiled a breathtaking mid-engine barchetta concept for Autobianchi. This design study, powered by an engine from the Autobianchi A111 sedan and a four-speed gearbox, was heavily influenced by nautical aesthetics. Its distinctive wedge-shaped body, striking two-tone paint scheme, and a rear rollover hoop housing the headlights all contributed to its unique appeal. The concept’s inherent brilliance was recognized by Fiat, which subsequently utilized its fundamental design principles as the foundation for the X1/9. This mid-engine sports car, a staple in the automotive market from 1972 to 1982 under the Fiat banner, and later as a Bertone from 1982 to 1989, cemented the Runabout’s legacy.
The modern iteration of the Bertone Runabout transcends mere concept status. Bertone has announced plans to produce a highly exclusive run of just 25 units, with prices commencing at approximately $464,000 (€390,000). At its core, the Bertone Runabout utilizes the exceptionally engineered, all-aluminum chassis and advanced powertrains from the Lotus Exige. However, these components are not simply transplanted; they are meticulously integrated and adapted. Each chassis is sourced as a pristine, unused unit, onto which the bespoke Runabout body is bonded. Further structural integrity and elegance are achieved through the integration of additional extruded aluminum architecture, ensuring a blend of lightweight construction and exceptional rigidity.
The powerhouse behind this reborn icon is a supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, a direct offering from Toyota. This formidable unit has been thoughtfully enhanced with a custom exhaust system, unleashing an impressive output of up to 475 horsepower. This ensures that the Bertone Runabout delivers a driving experience commensurate with its striking aesthetics. Each of the 25 limited-edition vehicles will be road-legal, boasting a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), underscoring their exclusivity and bespoke nature.
While the original Autobianchi Runabout’s distinctive, fixed headlights mounted on the rollover bar were a defining feature, modern safety regulations would render such a design impractical and likely illegal for road use in many jurisdictions. In a nod to its spiritual predecessor, the Fiat X1/9, the contemporary Bertone Runabout proudly reinstates the allure of pop-up headlights. This stylistic flourish not only harks back to a beloved era of automotive design but also adds an element of playful dynamism to the vehicle’s front fascia. Owners will have the flexibility to specify their Bertone Runabout in the purest open barchetta form, mirroring the original concept, or opt for a targa top configuration, reminiscent of the X1/9. Furthermore, Bertone is offering an extensive palette of customization options, allowing clients to meticulously tailor their vehicles with an array of exquisite materials, sophisticated color schemes, nuanced textures, and premium finishes, ensuring each Bertone Runabout is a truly personal statement.
The interior of the two-seater cabin is a testament to Bertone’s design philosophy, blending form and function with an artful touch. The dashboard features a unique decking-like motif, evoking a sense of maritime adventure, a clear callback to the original concept’s nautical inspirations. Centrally positioned is a functional compass, serving as both a practical instrument and a distinctive design element. The gated six-speed manual shifter is a mechanical masterpiece, with its exposed linkages and workings proudly displayed, appealing to those who appreciate the tactile engagement and visceral feedback of a true driver’s car. The attention to detail in the cockpit is paramount, offering an environment that is both visually captivating and deeply engaging for the driver.
The Toyota V-6 engine’s forced induction is expertly managed by an Eaton/Edelbrock TVS supercharger system, complete with an integrated charge-air cooler. Mirroring the setup of the now-discontinued Lotus Exige, the engine is mounted transversely, channeling its considerable power to the rear wheels. These are shod with 19-inch forged aluminum rims, complemented by 18-inch wheels at the front. Bertone estimates that the Bertone Runabout will achieve a brisk 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 4.0 seconds, with a top speed of approximately 168 mph. These performance figures, combined with the lightweight construction and sophisticated chassis, promise a driving experience that is both exhilarating and precise, a hallmark of true sports car engineering.
While Bertone has not yet announced a definitive production timeline or confirmed specific plans for US imports, enthusiasts will have an opportunity 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 prominently displayed at the Ultimate Supercar Garage exhibit, sharing the spotlight with the equally impressive Bertone GB110 and the original 1969 Autobianchi concept. This rare public unveiling provides a coveted glimpse into the revival of a design icon, offering a tangible experience of the craftsmanship and vision that defines this remarkable new Bertone Runabout.
For those captivated by the fusion of automotive history and contemporary performance, the Bertone Runabout represents an exceptional opportunity. This limited-production masterpiece, born from a legacy of Italian design excellence, offers a rare chance to own a piece of automotive art that is both visually stunning and dynamically capable. Exploring the prospect of acquiring such a bespoke vehicle requires careful consideration and a commitment to understanding its unique provenance.
Are you ready to embark on the journey of discovering the Bertone Runabout and explore the possibility of adding this extraordinary piece of automotive history to your collection? We invite you to connect with our dedicated specialists to learn more about the intricacies of ownership, customization options, and the exclusive process of bringing this revived icon to your garage. Let us help you navigate the exciting path toward experiencing the unparalleled blend of retro charm and modern exhilaration that only the Bertone Runabout can offer.
