Abarth to Expand Line-Up with New Models Next Year
Fiat’s Abarth division will introduce new models next year, aiming to build on strong growth and expand its dealership network across key markets.
Abarth will introduce new models next year as Fiat’s performance brand moves to expand beyond its current 500-based line-up. The announcement follows a year in which Abarth expects to reach 10,000 sales, a 50 percent increase on the previous year, according to company figures.
The head of Abarth, Paolo Gagliardo, confirmed the company’s plans to stimulate demand by launching new models, though he did not provide details on which vehicles would arrive first. Abarth’s current sales rely almost entirely on tuned versions of the Fiat 500, but the brand is preparing to broaden its appeal. Marketing chief Fabrizio Simoni said Abarth will add versions of the Fiat 500X subcompact crossover and the new Fiat 124 Spider to its line-up, though launch dates have not been specified.
Focus on Growth in Key Markets
Abarth’s strongest markets are the UK and Italy, with Japan also ranking highly for the brand. In the UK, Abarth aims to increase its dealership network from 68 to 105 by the end of next year. Globally, the company is targeting a rise from 300 to 750 sales points. This expansion is intended to support the higher sales volumes that new models are expected to bring.
Abarth’s cars are priced at a premium compared to standard Fiat models. In Italy, the Abarth 500 starts at €18,000, while the base Fiat 500 is listed from €13,600. Top-end Abarth models can reach €40,000 or more, reflecting the brand’s performance positioning. Gagliardo declined to disclose average profit margins for the division.
New Models on the Way
While no specific launch timetable has been confirmed, the addition of Abarth-tuned versions of the Fiat 500X and the Fiat 124 Spider signals a shift towards a more diverse range. The 500X will give Abarth a presence in the growing small crossover segment, while the 124 Spider will allow the brand to compete in the compact sports car market. Both models are expected to help Abarth reach new customers beyond the traditional hot hatch crowd.
Production of the Abarth 124 Spider will take place in Japan, alongside the standard Fiat 124 Spider, reflecting the importance of the Japanese market to the brand’s growth plans. With the UK, Italy and Japan accounting for the bulk of sales, Abarth’s strategy centres on strengthening its presence where demand is already established.
