Fiat Punto Pure

Introduction:

The Italian automobile firm has re-launched the Fiat Punto Pure (aka Grande Punto) at the ongoing 2016 Delhi Auto Expo. This car still looks the same like its predecessor, which was phased out in the year 2014. This hatchback is priced at Rs. 4.7 lakh for the petrol variant and Rs. 5.9 lakh for the diesel version. With such affordable price tag, it will go against the likes of Nissan Micra, Tata Bolt and Toyota Etios Liva. Let's see the insides of the fresh Punto Pure.

Pros:

1. It has a rigid body structure unlike its rivals, ensuring high level protection to the occupants. 

2. With 1.3-litre Multijet diesel engine under the hood, Punto Pure outperforms its rivals. 

Cons:

1. Its safety is a big let-down. There are no airbags, ABS and EBD or child safety locks.

2. There is no option for alloy wheels. 

Standout Feature:

1. Fire Prevention system is a critical feature that helps to safeguard passengers by cutting-off fuel supply in case of an accident. 

Background and Evolution:

The new Fiat Punto Pure is essentially the Grande Punto, which was discontinued in the year 2014. The same model has been brought back to the without any changes whatsoever. Its reliable performance and strong build quality may help Fiat stretch its market here in India. 

Overview:

The Italian automaker has launched this new car in just two variants for the customers. One of the variant is powered by a 1.3 litre diesel motor and the other one comes with a 1.2 litre petrol engine. It is made available in three exterior paint options including Exotica Red, Hip Hop Black and White. This pre-facelift version also comes with some standard facilities like hydraulic power assisted steering, power windows and manual air conditioning system.

Exteriors:

The car carries the same design language like its predecessor. We've got to say, the car may fail to impress the masses, thanks to its outdated design language. However, its body structure and build quality are are engineered with definite proportions. The curves and strong build quality should bring the onlookers appreciation. The small grille embedded with the company emblem at the center engages your eye. 

The new Punto Pure bonnet is long and is stylish owing to the crease lines it has. The follow-me stretch back headlights are the real highlights of the design.

The bumper design has got a clean design with neat finish. It has smaller air vents that are garnished in black. Unfortunately, there are no fog lamps in it. 

Now to the side profile, what catches your eye here is the neatly finished door handles and side mirrors. The fine crease across the side profile of the car rises the artistry of the motor. It gets steel wheel as standard featuring wheel caps. Its unfortunate that the car is not available with alloy wheels. 

This sub 4-meter vehicle looks bold and dynamic from its rear facet. The Tail-lamps of the car are aligned in symmetric with the windscreen, while the build quality and finish is unparalleled. 

The rear fog lamps are housed with in the bumper. The crease just below the panel groove is just alluring. The model's badge on the left of the boot-lid emphasizes its distinctive appeal. 

The eye-catching Fiat model measured 3989mm in length and 1687 mm in width and 1525 mm in height. This hatchback also has a decent boot volume of 280-litres. 

Interiors:

The inside cabin is plain but still manages to bring a fair ambiance when you drive. The new release doesn't carry any design modifications from its predecessor, but still it manages to offer convenience and comforts. Even with no exotic looks this new edition manages to exude a sense of plushness with its dual tone fabric seats and decently equipped interiors. With an adequate leg room, the new Punto pure offers the commuters a greater comfort.

Dashboard in the car is impeccably aligned with the Hi-tech system. The central console comes with Air condition controls and other control switches. Now the temperature in your car can be set to your requirement. 

The steering wheel looks simple and plain with a 3 spoke design. The steering doesn't come with any additional controls. 

The black fabric seats with white inserts attracts the eye. The seats are not too rigid but fairly cushion. The rear cabin has non-split folding bench seat that helps to release extra boot volume. On a whole the new Punto Pure is satisfying with the entertainment aspect and is quite positive with the seating and comfort.

Performance:

Petrol:

The new Punto Pure Petrol variant operates with 1.2-litre FIRE petrol engine. Fuel supply for the motor is done through the Multi point Fuel Injection System. The engine has a displacement of 1198 cc. It produces a maximum power of 67bhp at 6000 rpm and delivers a maximum torque of 96 Nm at 2500 rpm. This efficient petrol engine is coupled with 5 speed manual transmission making the ride peppy and powerful. The engine enables the car to produce 12.3 kmpl on city roads and 15.8 kmpl on highways. On and whole the Petrol engine is a healthy mating of power and torque promising a better drive. However the mileage on city roads might come out as lag for this pretty ride.

Diesel:

The second engine is a highly acclaimed and most awarded 1.3 litre Advanced Multi-jet diesel power plant. This engine has a displacement capacity of 1248cc. Fuel for this diesel engine is supplied through common rail fuel injection technology. The performance of the diesel engine is quite impressive. It does the job well by producing 75bhp of maximum power at 4000 rpm and 197Nm of maximum torque at 1750rpm. Clubbed with 5 speed manual transmission system the drive in this diesel variant is certainly a pleasure. Compared to the petrol engine this diesel motor does better with respect to mileage by returning a maximum of 21.2 kmpl. 

Ride & Handling:

This new hatchback has been engineered with better suspension system to the ride safe. The front axle is coupled with Independent Wheel McPherson Struts type of layout, with a stabilizer bar to control the body roll. The rear wheel of the car is mounted with Torsion Beam system. Additionally, both the axles have Helical Springs and Double Acting Telescopic Dampers. The Suspension system in the car  is effective, which actively offers better ride quality by absorbing the harsh road dynamics. This Light steering wheel operates the turns and twists easily and makes the drive efficient. Braking system in the car defines efficiency. The front wheels gets disc breaks and the rear comes with drum breaks. It has a generous ground clearance of 185 mm, which helps it to deal with rugged Indian roads effectively. 

Safety:

The new Fiat Punto Pure compromises in terms of safety, which is unfortunate. It is currently available only in one trim level that has a few essential protective features. It has door open indicator, Fire prevention system  and Engine immobilizer with rolling code that maximizes the safety quotient. In addition to these, the car also have fire prevention system, follow-me home headlights, driver seatbelt warning, double crank prevention system and rear seat metal back. The major concern with the new Fiat Punto Pure is the lack of Airbags which now is common is most vehicles at the same price tag.

Variants:

The new Punto Pure is currently available in two variants, which have standard facilities on-board. The list includes interior roof light, hight adjustable front head restraints, fixed rear seat head restraints, digital clock, follow-me home headlights and a programmable speed limit buzzer. The car also comes with hydraulic power assisted steering, power windows and a manual air conditioning system. 

Verdict:

In design points, the new Fiat Punto Pure earned mixed response among the enthusiasts. In terms of performance, its diesel engine outperforms ever other rival in its class, however the petrol engine lacks that punch. Price is yet another positive factor that can lure buyers. On a whole, this motor is affordable carrying decent looks and features.