Fiat Punto Evo Sporting road test
Stylish Fiat Punto supermini gains new engines, new tech and a rather cool name
What is it?A facelifted Fiat supermini with a new name - Punto Evo - and some useful tweaks under the skin. And it’s nothing to do with us. Technical highlights?Fiat’s trick new MultiAir engine. It’s a turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol unit with a handy 133bhp. The trick bit is hydraulic control of the inlet valves, which helps it hit a heady 50.4mpg on the combined cycle. What’s it like to drive?The engine’s the best bit – it sounds fab and the turbo response is phenomenal. The five-speed gearbox has a loose, notchy shift. The chassis feels up for it, but the damping isn’t great, bouncing and jiggling over all but smooth surfaces. It’s not a bad handler by any means, but don’t be misled by the banzai Mitsubishi nametag. How does it compare?The closest rival is terms of size, price and spec is the Fiesta Zetec S. The Punto Evo is quicker, but the Ford has it licked for dynamics and all-round appeal. Anything else I need to know?It’s got an integrated TomTom. Which is nice. Oh, and there’s a hotter and more desirable Abarth version to come, so you may just want to hold off for that…
Specifications
| Engine | 1368cc, 4-cyl, turbo |
| Max power | 133bhp @ 5000rpm |
| Max torque | 152lb ft @ 1750rpm |
| 0-60 | 8.5sec |
| Top speed | 127mph |
| On sale | Now |
