2011 Fiat Grande Punto Review
Price
RM108,320
Installment
RM1,033/mth
2011 Fiat Grande Punto at a glance
The 2011 Fiat Grande Punto lives up to its name by providing more space than the Fiat Punto, its predecessor. Add to that its beautiful styling and improved cabin quality, and it becomes clear that this car is Fiat's best effort in years.
2011 Fiat Grande Punto quick specs
| Body Style | Hatchback |
| Class | Small Family |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2011 Fiat Grande Punto ratings (overall rating : 3.5/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
As we have already come to know, the Italians have mastered the art of designing sleek, handsome cars. The Fiat Grande Punto is no different. Penned by Giugiaro, the small hatchback is beautifully styled, looking chic and neat, despite being bigger than its predecessor. Style sells. And the 2011 Fiat Grande Punto's good looks—easily the most striking in its class—will play a key role in converting sales.
Handling
The 2011 Fiat Grande Punto handles significantly better than the Fiat Punto, its predecessor. Throw it into a series of bends, and you will find bags of grip, well-controlled body movements and a quick steering. So, the 2011 Fiat Grande Punto has the dynamics to entertain for the most parts, except for the disappointing, lifeless steering which offers almost no feedback at all. The light steering, however, does make parking easy.
Comfort
The ride feels firm and fidgety at low city speeds, but it settles and smoothes out at higher speeds. Refinement is decent overall: engine and wind noise are audible though not excessive while cruising; road noise can intrude on the roughest of roads. Find a comfortable driving position is easy, thanks to two-way steering and seat-height adjustments. The dashboard is clear and logical, too. The hindered front visibility, cramped pedal area and poorly-shaped seats undermine the 2011 Fiat Grande Punto's comfort rating, however.
Quality + Reliability
Build and reliability are key issues that Fiat needed to iron out and improve on if their models are to sell well. The Fiat Punto was a disappointment in terms of cabin quality, but the 2011 Fiat Grande Punto looks and feels better constructed. Everything feels solidly put together, with good finishing and decent materials. Controls operate smoothly, too. A couple of areas, including the cheap-feeling headliners and hard door handles, indicate room for improvement, though. And of course, can the cabin and mechanicals stand the test of time?
Performance
The 2011 Fiat Grande Punto is driven by a 1.4-litre petrol engine mated to a five-speed semi-automatic gearbox. Developing 76 bhp at 6000 rpm and 115 Nm at 3000 rpm, the engine gives the car a lively feel. The 1.4-litre also proves to be smooth and quiet most of the time, except when pushed hard to reveal its raucous nature. Drivetrain refinement is further aided by the five-speed gearbox, which shifts in a timely and smooth manner.
Roominess
The Fiat Grande Punto is noticeably and usefully larger than the Fiat Punto, therefore justifying its “Grande” tag. The extra dimensions translate into excellent room for four adults and adequate room for five. At 275 litres, the boot space is larger than many rivals', and the rear seats can be folded almost flat to provide 1030 litres of loading space.
Running Costs
Fiats are relatively expensive to run by class standards. Not because of their petrol bills or servicing fees, but because of depreciation. The 1.4-litre is frugal to run and servicing/repair costs should be reasonable, too. But depreciation—the bane of Fiat models—could be relatively steep. Fiat, as a brand, is far less desirable than its Italian peers. That, when coupled with the perceived reliability issues, point to the Fiat Grande Punto depreciating far more than class-leaders would.
Value for Money
The 2011 Fiat Grande Punto lives up to its name by providing more space than the Fiat Punto, its predecessor. Along with that, the handling, cabin quality and performance have all been improved. The 2011 Fiat Grande Punto's good looks will be its greatest asset in today's market where style alone could seal the deal. Things are therefore heading the right direction for Fiat. So while rivals like the Honda Jazz, Toyota Yaris and Renault Clio are more complete, Fiat has shown that they are serious in making a comeback with their best car in years.
Equipment
Standard items include alloy wheels, electric windows, remote central locking, “follow-me-home” lights, air-conditioning and radio/CD audio system among others. Safety equipments include driver and passenger airbags, which deploy with varying velocity depending on the impact, side and curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, and ISOFIX child-seat mounting points.
Environment
The environment would be relatively safe if all cars are like the 2011 Fiat Grande Punto. Carbon dioxide emissions are low, and fuel consumption is equally impressive, so the Fiat Grande Punto would be up for contention should Greenpeace activists ever shop for cars.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Beautiful styling
Improved cabin quality
Excellent room for its size
Lifeless steering
Firm, fidgety low-speed ride
Potentially heavy depreciation
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