F.I.A.T. (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino), the Italian auto maker, launched its seductive hatchback Fiat Punto 2012 on 3^rd January just before the New Delhi Auto Expo this year. Fiat has been one company which is desperately requiring that upward thrust to strengthen their presence in the Indian auto market. Earlier version of Punto was able to spur sales graph for the company but with the passing days, demand dipped. New Year was the perfect occasion to introduce the revamped versions of its cars.

The refreshing Fiat Punto 2012 is bestowed with some exciting new features along with the introduction of a new shade, the Oceanic Blue. These features include New Brighter Dual Tone Interiors, Best-in-Class Ground Clearance, Powerful Air Conditioning, Central Locking and Integrated Audio System. Besides, My Car is an interesting feature available in Punto which presents the user to customize car settings according to his preference. Comfort is the best thing offered in Fiat cars and Punto hatchback was never short of it with heaps of space enclosed. Definitely the car is sculpted by passion and driven by some of the world’s finest engines.

The all new pampering Punto 2012 will be up against Maruti Suzuki Swift, Ford Figo, Volkswagen Polo, Hyundai i20, Hyundai i10 and Skoda Fabia.

Engine, Specifications & Performance:-

Fiat Punto 2012 is offered in both petrol as well as diesel variants. The 1.2L FIRE petrol engine generates 68 PS of top power at 6000 rpm along with peak torque of 96 Nm at 2500 rpm while the 1.3L Multijet diesel engine offers 76 PS of maximum power at 4000 rpm and ultimate torque of 197 Nm at 1750 rpm. Another 1.4L FIRE petrol engine churns top power of 90 PS at 6000 rpm and 115 Nm of terrific torque at 4500 rpm.

All the engines are mated to five speed manual transmission. Independent Wheel Suspension with McPherson Struts for front and Torsion Beam for the rear portion are the bump absorbing factors under the Punto platform.

The 1.2L FIRE petrol run small car from Fiat sprints from 0-100 kmph in just 14.5 seconds, 1.4L petrol run Punto covers the same slot in 10.9 seconds while the diesel fueled car accelerates from 0-100 kmph in 13.6 seconds.

Exteriors:-

The all new Fiat Punto 2012 gets some cosmetic changes on the exterior this time round with increased ground clearance up to 195 mm. Muscular cues and distinct lines forms the structure of this powerful machine. Subtle detailing to front as well as rear portion with silver radiator grill looks spectacular. High mounted tail lamps, 15 inch alloy wheels and precise flare fenders forms the highlight factors of its exterior build.

Interiors:-:

Lavish interiors with terrific fit and finish along with newly introduced Brighter Dual Tone theme gleam up the overall Punto cabin. Comfortable seating position with head restraints and adjustable driver seat makes Fiat Punto 2012 a fun to drive vehicle. If that wasn’t enough upgraded air conditioner, Integrated Audio System and plenty of cubby holes embrace the small car to be termed as a true value for money vehicle.

Comfort and Convenience

Gorgeous Fiat Punto 2012 has sufficient features for your comfort and convenience. These comprise of Power Steering, Tilt Steering, Clutch Foot Rest, Power Windows with ‘Delay’ and ‘Auto Down’ Function, Speed Sensitive Volume Adjuster for Audio, Remote Keyless Entry, Power ORVMs and Rear Window (Wiper + Washer). Other features include Tachometer, Trip Calculator, 12V Power Socket, Seat Belt Warning Light, Real Time Mileage Indicator, Integrated Audio System, Follow Me Headlamps, etc.

Safety:-

Fiat has loaded their famous Punto hatchback with protective features which include Crumple Zones, Collapsible Steering Column, High Tensile Steel Frame, Fire Prevention System, Dual Stage Front Airbags with sensors, ABS with EBD, 3- Point ELR Seat Belts, Seat Belts for all Rear Passengers and several others.

Mileage:-

The plentiful Punto offers decent mileage of 12 kmpl in petrol variant and 14 kmpl with its Multijet diesel engine.

Price:-

The all new Fiat Punto 2012 is tagged in the price bracket of Rs 4.87 lakhs to Rs 6.71 lakhs (Ex-showroom New Delhi).

Drawbacks:-

Despite the alterations, Punto has some low quality plastics especially in height-adjustable seat belt latch and parcel trays. Steering mounted audio controls are offered only in top end Emotion variant. Rear headroom might be a bit of concern for six foot plus persons. Fiat need to emphasize on the after sales part as well to boost its car sales.

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