Now for the key question: how is it to drive?
We drove the 1.4 and the 1.3 diesel. The petrol engine’s specifications are quite decent, but since the Punto is a bit heavy, it does not translate into sterling performance. It is a bit noisy too and the gearshifts aren’t quick and snappy either. For its firebreathing looks, the petrol 1.4 is a chilled out engine that is happy doing the city commute at ease. But on the highway, the five-speed gearbox has to work hard to extract the performance out of the engine. It simply needs to be whipped. It would be nice if Fiat would introduce the 120 bhp T-Jet version of this motor, which will add the go to the Punto’s show (but it will be too expensive).
The diesel, on the other hand, is another animal. The early arrival of all that wholesome torque means that it is a very driveable car in the city. On the highway, provided you keep it in its sweet spot, offers brilliant performance. The engine was so snorty that it sounded like a diesel Ferrari! If you stay between 2000 and 3500 rpm, the flexibility of the engine amazes you. It can move up from 100 to 140 kph without breaking into a sweat. But anywhere beyond, and it loses steam. The trick is to stay in that power band and once you do that, it’s fabulous to pilot.
That’s engine performance. What about the rest of the package?
Well, it’s a Fiat, and the ride quality should ideally not disappoint, right? Well, it doesn’t. The Punto rides as if it’s a car in a bigger segment and it does not transfer bumps to your posterior too easily. When it comes to handling, the Punto is extremely capable and can be chucked around corners without a care. Assisted by the large 195/60 R 15 rubber in the Emotion pack, it grips the tarmac very well. Though it is not as effervescent as the Swift when it comes to handling, the Punto is much more planted and confident. The steering setup is also better than the Swift petrol and is more positive.
Is it a good buy then?
Look, it’s a Fiat. There are people in India who would buy anything which has a Fiat logo on it. Such is the power of the brand. So they should buy it anyway. Then there are those who like the way it looks – for them, they should buy it with their eyes, er, shut! For others, it is a competent car and is easily a good, sophisticated alternative to the Swift. So they should give it a chance. Whoever else is left will buy a Maruti Suzuki anyway.
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