Fiat Punto Evo 1.4 MultiAir Turbo (2009) CAR review

The Grande Punto has done well for Fiat, only the sparkling new 500 outstripping it for UK sales during the last 12 months. Its replacement is the Punto Evo, essentially a facelifted Grande Punto with new interior and exterior design treatments. Although, 'replacement' isn't strictly true because (unusually for the UK market) the Grande Punto will live on in basic form as an entry level option.

For the Punto Evo there's a wide range of petrol and diesel engines, six of which meet the new Euro 5 emissions standards and five are fitted with a standard start-stop system and hill-hold function. Read on for CAR's first drive of the new Fiat Punto Evo.

So what's different about the looks of the new Fiat Punto Evo?

Externally, the Punto Evo has a neater line with two radiator grilles and a new rear bumper with redesigned tail lights. Overall length has increased slightly though the width has stayed the same. I

nside, there's a new embossed surface to the top of the dash, and larger dials for speedo and rev counter with new typography for all the numbers making them easier to read. Door trims have been revised with larger fabric areas and seats have been freshened-up both visually and ergonomically. Distinctly Italian, the design work is nevertheless a step down from the full-on approach taken with new Alfas and will probably appeal to a much wider audience.

Does the new engine lineup make much difference?

Yes, quite a lot. Of the 10-strong engine range, there are three Euro 5 petrol engines rated at 77bhp, 105bhp and 135bhp. The two top petrols are fitted with the MultiAir variable valve control system that increases both power and economy at the same time. There are also two Multijet II diesels at 75bhp and 95bhp with the latest version of Fiat's common rail fuel injection reducing consumption and CO2 by a further 2% compared to the original system.

>> Click 'Next' below to read more of our Fiat Punto Evo first drive