On sale now from £10,995:

• Although now longer called Grande, the Punto Evo is no smaller – in fact to the uninitiated it will seem hardly different, apart from the price.

• The Evo relates not only to the mild evolution of the exterior design (note evolution rather than improvement) but to a whole host of technological advances, especially with the engines.

• A range of new Fiat Group petrol and diesel engines debut in the Punto Evo, all with start/stop technology (although it isn’t the most reactive currently available).

• The MultiAir petrol units employ a clever electrically powered inlet system that reduces fuel consumption by 10% and lowers emissions whilst being more responsive. Diesel MultiJet engines have also been improved and updated.

• There are also some clever features in the cabin. An integrated docking port for a portable Tom-Tom device is an innovative solution to having unsightly circles on the inside of the windscreen

• The Blue&Me Tom-Tom option also includes the eco:drive software that enables drivers to download data to a website that then interprets their driving style and offers tips on how to improve and to drive as ‘green’ as possible.

• The interior of the Punto Evo has also been improved and better materials are evident on some models.

• ESP with a hill hold function, an unusual but useful feature on cars of this size, has been added across the range.


Verdict – The Grande Punto has been refreshed and improved, but the resulting Punto Evo may struggle for attention in this most competitive of segments, especially against the recent arrivals such as the Polo or the Citroen C3 and DS3. Then of course there is the Fiesta to consider and the Seat Ibiza, the Mazda2...

JK - Jan 2010