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Abarth to build Lotus Exige rival based on KTM X-Bow

Fiat's performance arm, Abarth, is developing an open-top sports car to rival the likes of Lotus cars, such as the Lotus Exige, a recent Auto Express report has revealed. Based on the KTM X-Bow, the light-weight special will expand the Abarth range and help continue the revival of the brand.


The Abarth name has been around for over 50 years and its badge has been placed on a number of cars over the years, and not just Italian super-minis either, they did a Porsche 356 in the early Sixties too. Lately though the company has been busy focusing on the production of the hugely popular Fiat 500 Abarth. The Abarth 500 is receiving high demands in Europe and our local market too - Michael Schumacher even has one.

It's unknown what the Abarth X-Bow will be called, but according to Auto Express, the additional body panels and creature comforts should increase the KTM's original 790kg weight somewhat. The Abarth is said to be less focused than the KTM but Abarth plans to create a more practical and stylish specification sticking to Fiat tradition.

The Audi-sourced 2.0-litre TFSI engine that powers the KTM is not expected to be used, sources say a Fiat 1.8-litre showcasing the award-winning MultiAir turbocharged system is highly likely.

According to Auto Express, the new X-Bow-based car might only be produced in limited numbers, or over a period of two or three years. The strict two-seater isn't planned to go into production until 2013 though, unfortunately. Prices are expected to be around $70,000 to $90,000, maxing out the Fiat/Abarth range.

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