Fiat is likely to develop an Abarth-tuned version of its 500X crossover by 2017 as the company looks to expand its line-up. The company is already expected to be working on an Abarth variant of its newest car, the 124 Spider and now it seems that the tuning house has turned its attention to the compact crossover.

Though not official yet, Abarth boss Paolo Gagliardo has spoken openly about his desire to expand the range beyond its current 500-based models. “We want to keep growing and stabilise at a certain level,” he told Automotive News Europe, while admitting that the UK and Italy are currently two of Abarth’s biggest markets.

Gagliardo also confirmed that the performance brand was looking to re-enter rallying with initial suggestions pointing to the Abarth 124 Spider being the car of choice with the Abarth 500X being another possible option.

Presently, the 124 Spider and 500X are both powered by a 134bhp 1.4-litre MultiAir II petrol engines which Abarth is seeking to upgrade to 170bhp for the Abarth 124. The 500X could likely be given the same treatment along with a four-wheel drive system and a choice of six-speed manual or dual-clutch automatic gearboxes.

As with other Abarth models, the 500X is also likely to receive significant styling updates on the interior and exterior, new badging and graphics, and a distinctive wheel design.

If confirmed, the Abarth 500X will rival the likes of the Mini Countryman John Cooper Works edition and the Nissan Juke Nismo RS internationally.