While the Abarth is now all-electric, comprising only the 500th and 600th models, an unexpected turnaround could be in store. At the presentation of the Fiat Grande Panda hybrid, Fiat CEO Olivier François hinted that a return to combustion engines at Abarth was not entirely out of the question. Just idle talk? Not quite.
A hope for purists
The news, although preliminary, is sure to rekindle the enthusiasm of fans of the Scorpion brand. The abrupt switch to all-electric power, which has been poorly digested by a large part of the Abarth community, could well be reviewed, at least in part. "Evaluations are underway", said Olivier François, referring to a reflection that is in its infancy but very real. That's enough to give hope to those who dream of hearing a petrol engine roar under the hood of an Italian bombshell.
A rally engine?
The most credible rumor points to the arrival of the 1.2L turbo petrol engine from the Stellantis group, already used in the competition, including in the Lancia Ypsilon HF entered in Rally4. This engine develops 212 hp in its racing version, without hybridization. On paper, it could be integrated into one of the current platforms (500e or 600e), although a return to internal combustion would require adaptation to current CO2 emissions and noise standards.
In a road version, this 1.2L turbo engine is already known in a hybrid version up to 145 hp (but we've already tested on the Alfa Romeo Junior Q4For Abarth, an evolution of this base could be envisaged, with power revised upwards... and perhaps light or rechargeable hybridization (PHEV), the only viable solution to meet European CO₂ requirements.
A response to enthusiasts' frustration
The Abarth 500e and the all-new 600e, despite their respectable performance (155 to 280 hp), struggle to convince enthusiasts of mechanical sensations. The lack of engine roar, the high weight and the very polite nature of electric driving leave some orphans of the Abarth DNA of yesteryear.
The return of a combustion-powered version, even if only partially electrified, could not only reassure enthusiasts, but also enable the brand to reposition itself.
Nothing is set in stone, but the mere fact that Fiat management is talking about the possibility of a return to combustion engines at Abarth is already a strong signal. Let's take this opportunity to announce that, a few days ago, the latest thermal Abarths were delivered in a limited version: Abarth 695 Club Italia.
Abarth 695 Club Italia, 1.4L 180 hp, Record Monza exhaust system
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