We always comment about how hot Italian cars are, but this is not what we had in mind. Looks like this Grande Punto didn’t like the facelift Fiat was giving it (this 2010 update was out testing). No one was hurt, so we get to make fun.
Fiat likes to add extra spice to their cars, even after their in-house tuner Abarth gets its hands on them. A good example is the 500 "essesse" shown in Paris last year. Now for the Geneva Motor Show, Fiat will come with another hotter Abarth: the Grande Punto Abarth "SuperSport".
The 16-valve 1.4-liter turbocharged engine now delivers 180 hp (up 25 hp from the standard Grande Punto Abarth). With this amount of power the Grande Punto Abarth SuperSport’s top speed is raised 4 mph to 133 mph and makes the 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 7.5 seconds (shaving about half a second off Grande Punto Abarth’s time).
Performance also benefits from a number of changes that the “esseesse” kit makes in ride height and trim attitude, giving the car a more solid stance with firmer, shorter springs, 215/40 R18 tires and specially designed 7.5 J X 18 alloy wheels. The kit puts the car into a real sprinter’s crouch, dropping its roll center by 20 mm. Just as important, the brake system features cross-drilled discs all round, together with high-performance front brake pads.
Press release after the jump.
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Fiat launched today the Grande Punto Natural Power, a model powered by new dual fuel (gas/methane). Same methane-petrol dual fuel system will be offered for the following models: Multipla Natural Power, Punto Natural Power, Panda Panda Natural Power, Panda Panda Climbing Natural Power and Doblò Natural Power.
When running on methane the car is able to cover 310 km with the tank filled to its full capacity of 84 liters. This record-breaking figure is increased by the 45 liter fuel tank capacity: this means that the Grande Punto Natural Power can be driven for more than 1000 kilometres without refueling.
The new model also offers a 1.4 8v Fire unit that is already compliant with the EURO5 emissions directive and offers low CO2 emissions (115 g/km) that allow customers access to the maximum state incentives.
This car will likely stay Euro-only because although the Fiat Group has announced Alfa Romeo’s return to the U.S., it has not yet announced any Fiat cars are coming. A low-volume natural gas powered car would probably not be a wise first entry compared to the 500.
Press release after the jump.
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On 14 and 15 June, a Fiat dealer network open door event will be held in Italy devoted to the Grande Punto Model Year 2008. The model has consistently played a leading role in all international markets (sales of over 850,000 since the launch, of which half outside Italy) and has now been revamped to offer customers significant new exterior features, a new range designed to appeal even more to the young, higher value due to the addition of major features as standard such as the sophisticated latest-generation ESP system with built in Hill Holder and, last but not least, new product packages based on the innovative Blue&MeTM entertainment and communications system.
To make it easier for customers to choose their version, the Grande Punto 08 range is made up of two families: the first known as “ConfortLife”, includes the Dynamic and Emotion versions and is designed for customers who are seeking comfort, style and practicality.
Those who seek a car with an out-and-out sporty temperament will be more attracted by the second family “SportLife” – that includes the versions Sport and the brand new Fun. Last but not least, the Active completes the new Grande Punto MY 2008 range. All specifications are available in 3 or 5 door configurations, apart from the Emotion that comes in a 5 door version more consistent with its mission of a car offering top motoring comfort.
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The South American division of Fiat, called Fiat Automoevis unveiled its latest creation: the Fiat Punto Turbo. What you see is in fact the Punto Abarth, but under another name.
Powered by a 155 hp T-jet engine from Abarth, the car comes with a new suspension kit, upgraded brakes, new body kit containing new front lip spoiler, side skirts, re-designed rear bumper and rear roof spoiler, but also a set of 17” alloy wheels. The car is set to enter production by the end of the year and will be available exclusively on the Brazilian automarket.
