Revamped Punto on economy drive

01st September 2009

Meet the new Fiat that’s putting function before form!

Officially, it’s a facelifted version of the Grande Punto – but you’ll need sharp eyes to spot the changes.

The Grande Punto Evo has new front and rear bumpers and revised lights – and completing the updates is a redesigned radiator grille.

Inside, the alterations go further: all models get stylish seat fabrics, plus a revised instrument cluster and stowage bins. Plus, there are new seats, which aim to offer enhanced comfort and safety.

But it’s under the skin that the biggest improvements have been made, with fresh engines which bosses hope will establish Fiat as the most environmentally friendly car maker in Europe.

Leading the way is a 1.3-litre MultiAir unit, which features electronically controlled valves to improve fuel efficiency. It develops 10 per cent more power and 15 per cent more torque than a normal petrol powerplant of the same size, while consuming less fuel and emitting less CO2.

The Evo will also offer start-stop and the Blue&Me–TomTom system – a new portable sat-nav that also manages your mobile phone on a colour touchscreen.

Other functions will include hill start assist and adaptive ‘cornering’ front foglamps, which switch on automatically with dipped headlights, and adjust to the angle of steering.

Full details will be revealed when the car makes its debut on the stands at Frankfurt.

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