Fiat Grande Punto EVO 1.2 Dynamic

Grande Punto EVO 1.2 Dynamic Review

Fiat India has launched the 2014 version of its compact hatchback Punto EVO in both petrol and diesel engines. Among the trims, Fiat Punto EVO 1.2 Dynamic is the mid range variant, which is equipped with a 1.2-litre FIRE (fully integrated robotized engine) petrol mill. It has the capacity to churn out a maximum power of 67bhp in combination with 96Nm of torque. Its braking and suspension mechanism are quite efficient and keeps the hatchback well balanced at all times. The front wheels are fitted with ventilated disc brakes, while rear ones get drum brakes. Meanwhile, the front axle is assembled with an independent wheel suspension with McPherson strut, while its rear axle is equipped with torsion beam type of mechanism. This newly launched vehicle comes with major updates to the exteriors like redesigned front fascia with chrome radiator grille, new headlight cluster and many other such aspects. Its internal cabin is added with an advanced music system with a few input options. The overall dimensions are quite decent and can accommodate five passengers with ease. Its length, width and height are 3989mm, 1687mm and 1525mm respectively. It has a minimum ground clearance of 185mm, which is rather decent for this segment. The large wheelbase measures about 2510mm and offer a spacious cabin inside.

Exteriors:

Its updated front fascia has a chrome garnished radiator grille, which is embedded with a prominent company logo in the center. This grille is surrounded by a re-designed headlight cluster, which is powered by headlamps and side turn indicator. The body colored bumper houses an air dam for cooling the engine. Its side profile is designed with flared up wheel arches that are fitted with a sturdy set of 14 inch steel wheels. These rims are further covered with 165/80 R14 sized tubeless radial tyres and also has full wheel covers. The door handles and ORVMs are painted in body color, while the external rear view mirrors are electrically adjustable. On the other hand, the rear end is equipped with a body colored bumper with fog lamps, a stylish tail light cluster and a curvy boot lid, which is embossed with variant badging. The large windscreen has a defogger along with a wash and wipe function as well. The company is selling this hatchback in quite a few exterior paint options for the buyers to choose from. The list includes a Magnesio Grey, Glitterati Gold, Exotica Red, Pearl White, Hip Hop Black and a Tuscan Wine metallic finish option.

Interiors:

The roomy internal cabin of this Fiat Punto EVO 1.2 Dynamic variant has a dual tone dashboard, which is equipped with a few features like three spoke steering wheel, a large glove box, AC vents and an illuminated instrument panel. Its door trims and armrests comes with fabric insert, while inside door handles are in body color. The well cushioned seats are integrated with adjustable head restraints. These seats provide enough leg space for all passengers and are covered with premium fabric upholstery. Apart from these, it is bestowed with a number of utility based aspects, which are front seat back pockets, a large glove box, cup and bottle holders, rear parcel shelf, remote fuel lid opener, all four power windows with driver side auto down function, power steering with tilt adjustment and height adjustable driver seat.

Engine and Performance:

This variant is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine, which has the ability to displace 1172cc. It is integrated with four cylinders and sixteen valves using DOHC valve configuration. This petrol motor is mated with a five speed manual transmission gear box. It can churn out a maximum power of 67bhp at 6000rpm along with a peak torque output of 96Nm at 2500rpm. The top speed is about 155 Kmph, while it can cross the speed barrier of 100 Kmph in close to 14.5 seconds from a standstill. At the same time, this mill is incorporated with a multi point fuel injection supply system, which helps in generating 15.8 Kmpl on the highways.

Braking and Handling:

The front axle is equipped with an independent wheel suspension with McPherson strut, which also has stabilizer bar. While the rear axle is fitted with a torsion beam type of mechanism. Both front and rear axles are further assisted by double acting telescopic dampers and helical springs, which keeps the vehicle stable at all times. On the other hand, the car maker has given this trim an efficient braking mechanism. Its front wheels are assembled with a set of ventilated disc brakes, whereas the rear wheels get solid drum brakes as well. The hydraulic power steering system is quite responsive and makes handling convenient even in heavy traffic conditions. It comes with tilt adjustable function and supports a minimum turning radius of 5 meters, which is rather good for this segment.

Comfort Features:

This trim is incorporated with a number of convenience features, which gives the occupants a pleasurable driving experience. The instrument panel comes with light regulation function that houses a digital clock, tachometer, odometer, distance to empty indicator, low fuel warning light, an electronic tripmeter, real time mileage indicator and programmable speed limit buzzer. It also has an integrated music system with speed sensitive volume control function. It supports CD/MP3 player, radio with AM/FM tuner, USB port, Aux-in socket along with four speakers. In addition to these, it is bestowed with clutch foot rest, follow me home headlamps, all four power windows with driver side auto down function, HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioner) unit with foot level air circulation vent, desmodronic foldable key, external temperature display, service reminder notification, trip-calculator and electrically adjustable ORVMs.

Safety Features:

This Fiat Punto EVO 1.2 Dynamic variant is incorporated with a number of protective aspects, which are automatic door locks, central locking system, door open indicator, fire prevention system and engine immobilizer with floating code that prevents the vehicle from unauthorized entry. It also has seat belts for all passengers with height adjustable function (front seat belts) and driver seat belt reminder notification on instrument panel.

Pros:

1. Decent internal cabin with ample space.

2. Initial cost of ownership is affordable.

Cons:

1. Fuel economy is not satisfying.

2. Lack of ABS and EBD.