Skip advert
Advertisement

Fiat Punto TwinAir

Our verdict on the updated Fiat Punto, which is now available with the company's efficient TwinAir engine

Overall Auto Express rating

3.0

How we review cars
Find your Fiat Punto
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

The Punto TwinAir is without doubt the most characterful engine found under the bonnet of a supermini today, and the low CO2 emissions mean there’s no road tax to pay. However, real-world economy isn’t as good as Fiat would hope, and along with the dated chassis and poor interior plastics the rest of the package struggles against a Fiesta or Polo.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Forget the majestic titles of Grande and Evo, now it’s just plain old Punto for Fiat’s updated supermini – and the simplified badging is joined by a new TwinAir engine, too.

With its turbocharged 0.9-litre two cylinder, Fiat promises high levels of driver enjoyment despite claims of low emissions, low fuel consumption and low running costs.

At start-up you do wonder if it will deliver, though. The noise that penetrates into the cabin is unlike any other supermini, but on the move that’s all forgotten.

The unmistakable thrum is always present, and the harder you push the motor the louder it is, but it’s a note that has been especially designed to appeal to keen drivers.

The throttle response is sharp, and the Punto TwinAir encourages drivers to explore the rev range, which is just as well since peak power doesn’t arrive until 5,500rpm.

Thankfully, all of the TwinAir’s torque arrives at 2,000rpm so it’s flexible around town. It also boasts the firm’s stop-start system and a gearshift indicator, as well as the CITY button which makes the steering lighter for parking manoeuvres. However, away from built-up areas this Punto will struggle to return Fiat’s claimed 67.3mpg combined economy figure.

That’s all down to the engine, though, as the chassis is beginning to feel its age. It hangs on gamely, but there’s no finesse and the steering lacks feel; a Ford Fiesta is much more involving. Add in the optional 17-inch alloys of our test car and the ride becomes very hard.

At least the TwinAir looks good and is well equipped, benefitting from body-coloured trim, gloss-black mirrors, air-conditioning and special TwinAir seats which brighten up an interior that’s starting to feel a bit tired these days.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £6,040 off RRP*Used from £12,495
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,115 off RRP*Used from £14,200
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,921 off RRP*Used from £8,600
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,672 off RRP*Used from £12,200
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Toyota GR Corolla hot hatch is on the way to the UK
Toyota GR Corolla - front cornering

Toyota GR Corolla hot hatch is on the way to the UK

The success of the GR Yaris has persuaded Toyota that there’s room in its UK range for the high performance Corolla
News
19 Jun 2025
New Audi A3 e-tron proves the brand isn’t turning its back on smaller cars
Render of the Audi A3 e-tron - front static

New Audi A3 e-tron proves the brand isn’t turning its back on smaller cars

Audi has confirmed it’s bringing a posh all-electric take on the MEB platform to market, and in good time
News
18 Jun 2025
Groundbreaking Nissan solid-state EV batteries due on sale by 2028
Nissan Leaf - front cornering

Groundbreaking Nissan solid-state EV batteries due on sale by 2028

The industry is in a race to bring solid-state to the market, and Nissan isn’t too far behind the leaders
News
17 Jun 2025