In the summer of last year Fiat Chrysler confirmed a high-performance Abarth version of the Fiat 500X was being considered. We figured there was a pretty good chance the car would get the green light for production considering the current popularity of crossovers, and based on recent spy shots, it seems as though our hunch was right.

CarAdvice.com.au recently photographed what looks to be a Fiat 500X Abarth prototype testing in the snow. The large Alfa Romeo wheels oust the vehicle’s status as an Abarth prototype, along with the large brakes and twin exhaust tips. The photographer that captured the pictures also said the car emitted a “quite aggressive,” exhaust note when it pulled away.

The Fiat 500X Abarth could be powered by a more potent version of Fiat’s existing 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which would likely be mated to the same nine-speed automatic found in the standard 500X and coupled with all-wheel drive. The rumored 2.0-liter turbocharged Hurricane engine may also be utilized.

Check out the spy photos on CarAdvice.com.au.