Grande Punto EVO 1.4 Emotion Review
Its raining new cars in the market, especially in the lucrative hatchback segment. Now, the latest entrant in this segment is the all new Fiat Punto EVO, which comes in three trim levels for the buyers to choose from. At the same time it is also available with a choice of one diesel and two petrol engine options. The Fiat Punto EVO 1.4 Emotion is the top end petrol variant that is powered by a 1368cc FIRE engine. It churns out a commanding power of 88.7bhp along with a peak torque output of 115Nm. This latest version comes with a array of new cosmetics in terms of both exteriors and interiors. To start with the exteriors, it gets stylish reindeer headlamps along with a redesigned radiator grille and bumpers. At the same time, its insides too received changes in the form of an improved color scheme, wider seats and re-structured dashboard. As far as its features are concerned, the company has retained most of its features from the outgoing model including automatic AC unit, ambient lighting system and an advanced in-car entertainment system. It also has crucial safety aspects like dual front airbags with early crash sensors and three point ELR seat belts.
Exteriors:
This hatchback comes with a fresh new look owing to its re-structured cosmetics. To begin with the front, it comes with a radiant headlight cluster, which is incorporated with conventional halogen lamps and turn indicators . In the center, there is a re-structured radiator grille that has black mesh and a thick chrome surround. The company's insignia is now placed above the grille, which is complimented by the character lines given on bonnet. Furthermore, the front bumper too has been revamped and is neatly decorated with chrome strips along with a pair of fog lamps. Coming to the sides, this hatchback now gets a set of 15-inch diamond cut alloy wheels, which are covered with 195/60 R15 sized tubeless radial tyres. Its door handles are treated in chrome while the external mirrors have body color. Its rear profile looks very elegant as it is now fitted with clear lens taillight cluster with LED brake lights and turn indicators. Its windscreen is incorporated with a defroster along with a wiper. The rear bumper received a slight modification as it is now affixed with a pair of brake lights and chrome strip as well. This hatchback has a total length of 3989mm, overall width of 1687mm and with an improved height of 1525mm. Its ground clearance is quite good with 185mm, while its wheelbase is 2510mm, which is quite large.
Interiors:
The internal cabin of this Fiat Punto EVO 1.4 Emotion trim is quite roomy with good leg and shoulder space. It is equipped with wider seats, which provides excellent thigh and back support. They also have integrated head rest and are covered with a good quality fabric upholstery. There is height adjustment function provided for the driver's seat, while the rear bench seat has 60:40 split folding facility. The main highlight of this latest version is cockpit where it is skilfully fitted with a dual color dashboard, which is fitted with a voluminous glove box, instrument cluster, an AC unit and an in-car entertainment system. Its instrument cluster has several advanced features like seat belt warning with buzzer, outside temperature display, trip calculator, tachometer, real time mileage indicator and programmable speed limit buzzer. Apart from these, there are several utility aspects provided inside like a 12V accessory power socket, digital clock, bottle holders, boot lamp and several other such aspects.
Engine and Performance:
This variant is powered by a 1.4-litre FIRE petrol engine that is based on DOHC valve configuration. It has a total of four cylinders and 16-valves that displaces 1368cc. It is further incorporated with a multi-point fuel injection technology that helps it to produce a maximum power of 88.7bhp at 6000rpm and a superior torque output of 115Nm at 4500rpm. This motor is skilfully mated with a five speed manual gearbox that sends the torque output to its its front wheels. The car maker claims that this hatchback can deliver a minimum mileage of 11.3 Kmpl in city roads, while producing a maximum of 14.4 Kmpl on highways.
Braking and Handling:
Its front wheels are paired with conventional disc brakes, while its rear ones have reliable drum brakes. This braking combination is integrated by the anti lock braking system and electronic brake force distribution, which prevents the vehicle from skidding on slippery roads. On the other hand, its front axle is fitted with Independent wheel McPherson strut and the rear axle has torsion beam system. Both the front and rear axles are further loaded with helical springs and double acting telescopic dampers, which helps it to deal with shocks caused on uneven roads. At the same time, it is integrated with a highly responsive hydraulic power assisted steering system that helps in providing an effort-less driving experience.
Comfort Features:
This Fiat Punto EVO 1.4 Emotion is the top end petrol variant, which is incorporated with several advanced comfort aspects. There is an integrated music system that supports a CD player and MP3 playback and has connectivity ports for USB and AUX-In devices . In addition to these, it gets “Blue and Me” facility along with voice recognition system and SMS readout function as well. The list of other aspects include ambient lighting on dashboard, fully automatic AC unit with rear foot level vents, rear defogger, desmodronic folding key, electrically adjustable outside mirrors and power windows with driver's side delay and auto down function.
Safety Features:
This latest hatch has quite a few important safety aspects, which protects the vehicle as well as its occupants. It is installed with dual front air bags including early crash sensors and passenger airbag deactivation function. Also there are 3-point ELR seat belts with pre-tensioner and load limiter function. The list of other safety aspects include anti lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution, height adjustable front seat belts, door open indicator, central locking system, fire prevention system and an engine immobilizer with rolling code.
Pros:
1. Eye-catching interior design with decent features.
2. Engine's acceleration and performance is rather good.
Cons:
1. Lack of reverse parking assist is a big drawback.
2. Fuel economy is poor in comparison with other competitors.
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