ഫിയറ്റ് Grande പൂണ്ടോ EVO 1.2 Active

The lucrative Indian car market, especially the hatchback segment is flooding with back to back launches from different automobile companies. Now, the Italian automaker has introduced its premium hatchback by renaming it as Fiat Punto EVO. It is available in three trim levels with petrol and diesel engine options for the buyers to choose from. Among the petrol variants, the Fiat Punto EVO 1.2 Active is the entry level variant that is powered by a 1172cc FIRE engine. It is capable of churning out 67bhp along with a commanding torque output of 96Nm. Although, it is an entry level trim, it gets some of the important features like fire prevention system, an air conditioning system, hydraulic power assisted steering and accessory power socket. This latest version is all about cosmetic changes, especially to its exteriors. It gets a redesigned radiator grille, distinctly crafted Reindeer headlight cluster and revamped bumpers. Its taillight cluster is now powered by LED brake lights, which further adds to its elegance. This hatchback also gets a few refinements to its internal cabin in the form of improved color scheme, a new dashboard and improved seating arrangement. This vehicle will now compete with the likes of Volkswagen Polo, Maruti Suzuki Swift, along with the upcoming Tata Bolt and Hyundai Elite i20.

Exteriors:

The external appearance looks completely different from its outgoing model. Its front profile gets a re-structured headlight cluster, which is powered by conventional halogen lamps and turn indicators. It also gets a brand new radiator grille with a thick chrome surround, which gives an aggressive stance to the front facade. At the same time, its bumper too has been re-structured and is affixed with expressive metallic strips. Its bonnet has now got four expressive lines that compliments the company's logo, which is repositioned above the grille. Its side profile remains mostly identical to its earlier version, where it gets standard aspects like black colored door handles and ORVM caps. Interestingly, this base trim gets turn indicators on external wing mirrors, which provides additional safety. This variant is being offered with a set of 14-inch steel wheels including wheel covers. These conventional rims are covered with a set of 165/80 R14 sized radial tubeless tyres. Coming to the rear end, its taillight cluster is slightly modified and it is powered by trendy LED brake lights and turn indicators. The structure of its rear bumper looks identical to its earlier version but it is now affixed with distinctly crafted strips and brake lamps as well. This latest version is also available in a new Glitterati Gold color shade beside six other paints like Magnesio Grey, Exotica Red, Minimal Grey, Hip Hop Black, Pearl White and Tuscan Wine.

Interiors:

This Fiat Punto EVO 1.2 Active trim gets a completely modified interior cabin, which is neatly decorated with trendy cosmetics. To begin with, its cockpit is fitted with a modified dashboard, which is skillfully fitted with an instrument panel, glove box unit and an elegant central console. Its instrument panel has a pair of round shaped meters along with few other notification lamps relating to seat belt warning and distance to empty. It also comprises of a digital clock, digital odometer, trip meter, programmable speed limit buzzer and a tachometer. The seats got wider and have been integrated with head restraints. The main highlight of the cabin is its huge cabin space, especially the rear cabin leg room owing to its large wheelbase of 2510mm. At the same time it also has a decent 280 litre boot space. Apart from this, there are several utility aspects provided inside like accessory power sockets, foot level air circulation, clutch foot rest, drink holders and trip calculator.

Engine and Performance:

This variant is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine that comes incorporated with multi point fuel injection system. It comprises of 4-cylinders, 8-valves and is based on an SOHC valve configuration that displaces 1172cc. It can develop a maximum power of 67bhp at 6000rpm along with a peak torque output of 96Nm at just 2500rpm. This motor is skillfully paired with a five speed manual gearbox that allows its front wheels to extract the torque output. Since there is no change to the specifications, this vehicle will continue to deliver a mileage in the range of 12.3 to 15.8 Kmpl (depending upon road conditions). On the other hand, it can accelerate towards 100 Kmph speed mark from a standstill in about 18.89 seconds and it can achieve a top speed of approximately 135 Kmph.

Braking and Handling:

This hatchback gets conventional braking mechanism in the from of front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, which delivers reliable performance in any weather condition. As far as its suspension is concerned, its front axle is affixed with an independent wheel McPherson strut, while its rear axle is equipped with torsion beam system. In addition to these, it is also loaded with helical springs and double acting telescopic dampers, which improves the suspension mechanism. On the other hand, it is also integrated with a standard hydraulic power assisted steering system, which provides good response and makes handling simpler.

Comfort Features:

This entry level variant has several important features that provide a fatigue free traveling experience. Its cabin is fitted with a heating, ventilation and AC unit along with foot level air circulation, which keeps entire cabin cool irrespective of temperature outside. It has a list of features including power assisted steering with tilt adjustment, front power windows with delay and auto down function, rear parcel shelf, follow me home headlamps and a clutch foot rest. It also has an instrument cluster featuring digital clock, programmable service reminder, trip calculator, and distance to empty indicator.

Safety Features:

This entry level trim has been incorporated with crucial safety aspects including a fire prevention system, automatic door lock and door open indicator. In addition to these, the company has also equipped it with central door locking, engine immobilizer with rolling code, seat belt warning lamp and programmable speed limit buzzer.

Pros:

1. Interior design is quite appealing.

2. Engine performance is quite reliable.

Cons:

1. There is still scope to improve its comfort features.

2. Poor fuel economy is its biggest drawback.