Fiat Punto

Abarth returns to give Punto some sting

The famous Abarth scorpion has made its long-awaited return

Auto Express Car Reviews

Black alloys and trim mark out Grande Punto Abarth

By Ross Pinnock

07th March 2007

The Fiat Grande Punto is the first car to get the Abarth treatment. The Italian giant is relaunching its tuning arm at the Geneva Motor Show, where the division has its own stand. And taking centre stage at the Swiss expo is the Grande Punto Abarth Preview.

It's a thinly veiled production model, and comes with a 155bhp version of the firm's new turbocharged 1.4-litre T-JET engine, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

Styling additions include a redesigned front bumper with gaping air vents, two-tone alloy wheels and matt black arch extensions and side sills. Red racing stripes also adorn the sides of the car, which rides on lower suspension. There's a Sport mode that boosts engine torque, while a further upgrade kit can be specified, increasing power to 180bhp.

The show model has a scorpion badge on its grille instead of Fiat's emblem, but owners of standard models will also be able to buy Abarth tuning kits for their cars. Next up is a hot version of the city runabout, the 500. The wraps will come off the 150bhp newcomer at the Tokyo Motor Show in October.

Also on Abarth's Geneva stand is the S2000 rally car. It will be run by the Fiat Racing Department, and is set to participate in the 2007 Italian Rally Championship.

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