Fiat Punto Evo hatchback (2009 – ) expert review

1. Exterior

While it’s essentially a thorough reworking of the Grande Punto, the Fiat Punto Evo simply brings that car’s good looks more up to date. Intriguingly, the Punto Evo looks better in the pictures than in the metal, whereas its predecesor, the Grande Punto, was the other way around. The horizontal bar in the centre of the grille takes its inspiration from the Fiat 500. Small tweaks to the exterior separate the different trim levels. For instance a hexagonal grille and black headlight surrounds feature on the Sport, while there’s chrome trim on Comfort models.

Our rating: 4

2. Interior

The Punto Evo sees some significant improvements to the Grande Punto’s interior, with a more upmarket dashboard and attractive stereo and controls. However, while the Punto’s dash looks quite sophisticated with its piano black inserts and sculpting, it’s a shame that the cabin in general is so monotone. But most of the materials on display appear better quality than before and there are a few bits of Italian flair, with attractive dials and air vents. There’s a docking mount on the dashboard for a TomTom which is a useful touch.

Our rating: 4

3. Practicality

With a 275-litre boot the Punto Evo is a practical supermini and with the rear seats folded this space increases to 1,030 litres. It’s disappointing that in entry-level form the Punto Evo doesn’t come with a 60/40 split-fold rear seat – you have to move up to the Dynamic to get one of those. One of the reasons why the Punto Evo is so usable is that it’s not especially small, despite its supermini status. As a result, there’s plenty of cabin space for four, or even five if someone doesn’t mind perching in the middle of the back seat. However, this isn’t a car that’s particularly comfortable for five.

Our rating: 3

4. Ride and handling

Puntos have always had suspension biased towards handling rather than ride comfort, and the latest model is the same. Sensitive steering sees the Punto Evo nip into corners sharply and neatly, although there isn’t too much feel through the light steering. Small bumps are dealt with easily, but bigger speed bumps and pot holes jolt passengers.

Our ra ting: 3

5. Performance

There’s a large selection of engines on offer, with petrol offerings that displace 1.2 and 1.4 litres, with the latter engine offered in various versions that generate 68, 77, 105 or 135bhp. We tested the 105bhp MultiAir and found it to be the highlight of the car. It’s a smooth, efficient engine which offers good power from low in the rev range. There are also three MultiJet diesel engines with 75, 95 and 120bhp, which offer good acceleration in day-to-day driving. The diesel engines also offer decent cruising abilities, but refinement isn’t all it could be.

Our rating: 3

6. Running costs

All Punto Evos have admirably low running costs, including the petrol models. The 1.2-litre averages 54.3mpg and emits 123g/km of CO2, while the 1.4-litre averages 49.6mpg and emits 132g/km. Despite its significant power hike, the 105bhp 1.4-litre MultiAir averages 49.6mpg and emits 134g/km, while the 135bhp version averages 50.4mpg and emits 129g/km of CO2. Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are cut thanks to the fitment of stop and start as standard, but the Punto loses value quite quickly, which increases running costs.

Our rating: 4

7. Reliability

The engines and transmissions in the range are mostly proven, with few common faults. However, some of the other parts of the running gear can be fragile, with drive shafts and shock absorbers sometimes proving weak. The interior trim can also fall apart all too easily while the electric power steering can also be temperamental.

Our rating: 3

8. Safety

The Punto Evo hasn’t been crash tested, but the Grande Punto has, and it was awarded the full five stars. However, entry-level cars miss out on some kit such as front side and curtain airbags. Also, while there are three-point seatbelts for five, the entry-level Active comes with just two headrests for those in the rear, which is a disappointing oversight. But all Punto Evos get a decent array of standard safety kit including Isofix child seat mountings, electronic stability programme (ESP), front airbags, anti-lock brakes and seat belt pre-tensioners.

Our rating: 3

9. Equipment

There are five trim levels, but not all engines are available with every trim. Entry-level cars are badged Active, with standard equipment including electric front windows and mirrors, remote central locking and a trip computer. Dynamic trim adds climate control plus a leather-trimmed gearknob and steering wheel, while Dynamic Eco adds a bodykit. GP buyers get sportier instruments and exterior details, sports suspension plus front foglights with adaptive cornering. The range-topping Sporting comes with burnished alloy wheels, cruise control and ambient lighting for the interior.

Our rating: 3

10. Why buy?

One of the best-looking cars in its segment, the Punto Evo also comes with a five-star EuroNCAP rating, is affordable and has some great engines too.

Our rating: 3