In 2005, Fiat Punto, one of the few truly popular models of the brand, became a “grand”. The debut took place at the 61st Frankfurt Motor Show. The new model was designed to return the past glory of the model Punto. Stylish and roomy Grand Punto significantly larger than its predecessor in size (4030x1690x1490 mm). Such dimensions are a serious claim for moving the model one notch up to a higher class. A worthy competitor to such golf class makers as the Opel Astra, Ford Focus and Peugeot 307.
The Italian company has offered two versions of the hatchback, with a 3-door and 5-door body. Grande Punto was created on a common compact platform FIAT-GM, among the design features of which is an independent double-lever rear suspension (in front are the “classic” McPherson struts). The design was developed by the Ital Design ateliers. The exterior was designed by famous car designer Giorgetto Giugiaro. The body is a classic Italian style. Patching lines and their smooth compatibility give the car an unrivaled look.
Daring and impetuous, stylish and dynamic, Grande Punto amazes with its exquisite forms and unprecedented power. Inside, all the more prosaic, but with its pluses. For example, the car has become more spacious compared to its predecessor. Noticeably more space in the shoulders, not only in the front, but also in the back, where there is now, “where to go” The luggage compartment volume of 275 liters in an instant can be increased to 1030, folding the rear seat. The interior is modest, but tasteful.
Clear lines of the front panel with a dedicated "driver zone", two-tone seat upholstery. The instrument panel is trivial and concise. Monotonous digitization, simple and flat black background, red-orange backlight. The buttons on the center console have clear icons and are grouped logically, according to "areas of responsibility." Keys and switches needed in the process of driving, at hand. So to ergonomics at a good level. Finishing materials are pretty good quality. Seats are pleased with the shape and texture of the upholstery.
The driver's seat is endowed with a full set of adjustments, the steering wheel moves both in height and in flight. The Grande Punto petrol engines are similar to the 2005 Punto models - these are 1.2 l / 65 hp engines (8 or 16 valves), 1.4 l / 77 hp. and 1.8 liters (16V), but the Multijet turbodiesels are new - 1.3 liters R4 16V (85 hp, 200 Nm) and 1.9 liters R4 in two versions - 8V (120 hp, 280 Nbm) or 16V (130 hp, 320 Nm). KP choice - basic 5-step “mechanics” or optional 6-step “semi-automatic” Dialogic. The whole range of power units Grand Punto meets the environmental standards Euro 4.
The basic version of the Grand Punto is equipped with ABS, air conditioning, dual airbags and heated front seats. The top version offers a 2-zone climate control, leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob, CD / MP3 radio and alloy wheels R15. In the list of optional equipment sliding glass roof and parking sensors. Special mention is worthy of the fact that on crash tests EuroNCAP Grand Punto showed the result of "five stars". Experts rated the safety of this car as high. Possible damage to the head, chest and limbs were classified as minor. For the protection of passengers, children in transit, the car received 35 points (72%) - three stars out of five.
Pedestrian safety was rated at 19 points (53%) - three stars out of four maximum. Later, Fiat introduced the Grand Punto Sport. The car is positioned as a regular Grand Punto with sports notes in the design of the body and interior elements. Inside, the white scales on the dashboard with red numbers and edging, as well as sports seats with pronounced lateral support, immediately catch the eye. A total of 5 body colors are offered. Under the hood lies only a 1.4-liter 16-valve gasoline engine producing 95 hp.
The power unit is combined with a 6-speed gearbox, and, thanks to well-selected gear ratios, accelerates to 100 km / h in just 11.4 seconds. However, the maximum torque of 125 Nm is reached at 4500 rpm, therefore, for active driving it is necessary to constantly maintain high revs. The fuel consumption declared by the manufacturer is quite small, only 6.1 liters per 100 kilometers during the urban cycle. The Grand Punto Sport engine belongs to the StrarJet family, which features the new Swirl Turbulence Air-Induction Reengineering technology.
The bottom line is that each cylinder has not one, but two channels, respectively, the valve of one channel is closed at low revs, which provides lower performance and high savings, and at high revolutions the second channel is opened, which ensures higher engine performance. In addition, the Grand Punto Sport is equipped with a sports suspension, which does not differ in particular rigidity, but allows you to more actively take turns with a minimum of rolls.
The basic package includes a sports suspension, ESP dynamic stabilization system, 6 airbags, air conditioning, CD audio system with MP3 support, fog lights, rear-view mirrors with electric drive and heating, 17-inch alloy wheels with low-profile sports tires, a small spoiler tailgate and chrome exhaust pipe. Now the Fiat company is working on a new modification of the Grande Punto model, which according to preliminary data should be on sale in the summer of 2007. The car will receive a brand new 1.4-liter gasoline turbo engine in two versions - with a capacity of 120 or 150 horsepower.
Turbocharged Grande Punto will be different from the base model of larger wheels, the new exhaust system, enhanced brakes with red painted calipers, aggressive body kit and sports trim.
