Fiat Punto Evo (10 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
It has a new name and new engines, but the Punto Evo is essentially a facelift of the Grande Punto - a car which has helped to improve Fiat's reputation for quality and reliability. There are some subtle changes to the exterior, including a new front end akin to the Fiat 500 while there are substantial upgrades to the interior with a new dashboard, instrument dials and a sleek stereo. However the biggest advances come under the bonnet thanks to new petrol and diesel engines that deliver more power along with improvements in economy and CO2 emissions. All models come with an automatic engine stop/start system too. Improvements in refinement and soundproofing make it quieter on the move, but the overly firm ride detracts from overall comfort. However, the Punto Evo is still a great value small car with plenty of standard equipment and low running costs.
4 out of 5

Other Fiat reviews

4 out of 5

Safety

Although this Punto Evo doesn't have an official Euro NCAP crash test rating, the previous Grand Punto was awarded the maximum five-star rating for adult occupant protection along with an impressive three stars for child protection safety. All models come with driver and passenger airbags along with a driver's knee airbag, while side and window airbags are standard on all models except the Active (where they're an option). Isofix child seat mounting are fitted but while ESP stability control is standard on Eleganza and Sporting models, it's an optional extra on the rest of the range.

NCAP Test

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3.5 out of 5

Reliability

Fiat's reputation has suffered due to some poor models in the 1980s and 1990s, but its modern vehicles are mechanically robust. There have, however, been issues with niggling faults, in particular electric problems, but Fiat is aiming to improve this. We've had mixed reports from owners of the Grande Punto with some suffering from a catalogue of faults while others experience no problems at all.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.