Abarth Grande Punto Hatchback (08-10) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 27 October 2009
It's a long time since Fiat has been in a position to claim class honours in the hot hatch sector. The 130bhp Punto HGT, discontinued in 2006, struggled both on paper and on the road at a time when the class leaders were offering up to 180bhp. All this has changed, and Fiat has dusted off a famous and illustrious brand to lead its charge into enemy territory. Abarth was last seen as a badge-engineered 'warm' version of the unpopular Stilo, and fans of the iconic marque with decades of racing and tuning heritage would be justified in feeling nervous. But Fiat has bestowed Abarth status as a brand in its own right, alongside Alfa Romeo, Lancia and Maserati in its automotive stable. The 155bhp hatchback (180bhp with factory-approved dealer modifications) is impressive on the road and is good value, plus it should remain exclusive as a result of the small network of specialist dealers.
4.5 out of 5

Other Abarth reviews

3.5 out of 5

Running costs

The standard model looks good value and 40mpg should be realistic as long as you don't thrash it. Depreciation should be better than average because of its relative scarcity. Servicing (carried out at Abarth approved Fiat outlets dotted across the UK) shouldn't be very expensive either.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

To be confirmed.

Warranty

Three years/60,000 miles.

Road tax (12 months)

£170.00 - £170.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

2.5 out of 5

Green credentials

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    162
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CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

Only one version is available, and 162g/km of carbon dioxide emissions isn't bad for a high-performance small car. The 'esseesse' modifications are an aftermarket kit, so the power increase should not affect the car's official CO2 rating and not make it liable for any higher rates of vehicle excise duty or company car tax.

Find the exact engine and CO2