Punto Heaven! (Fiat Punto 1.2 16v ELX Speedgear 5dr)

Member Name: Suzywong41

Product:	Fiat Punto 1.2 16v ELX Speedgear 5dr
Date:	01/01/02 (2479 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Economical, Luxurious

Disadvantages: Pedals too close together

Well after 3 years of owning the old style Punto (automatic) which I loved, I bought a brand new Punto Speedgear and I can honestly say it's like driving a different car! The 16 valve engine goes like a rocket; there is a "City" button which you can use for parking etc, which makes the power steering as light as a feather. The gearbox also has the Speedgear option, where you can change the gears, rather like a manual car. When you are in Drive you also have the option to use the "E" button for economy, which does seem to make a difference to petrol consumption.

The wipers also have a clever idea in that if you just want a quick wash of the windscreen, the wipers automatically come on and wipe the screen three times after you have pressed the screenwash button. There is a rear wash/wipe and 3 speeds for the front wipers.

The driver's seat is very comfortable - you can move it forwards and up to get the perfect driving position and it also has lumbar support.

The boot is very large - you can get two full suitcases in it and the back seats also fold down.

Braking is good too - you get ABS fitted as standard.

The interior is very plush, comes with a fantastic CD/Radio/Cassette with a 100w sub-woofer (whatever that is!) and the sound is incredible. There also numerous storage "cubbyholes" - apparently there are between 19-25 depending on which model you have - much more than previously. My Punto also came with air con, ABS, electric front windows, a trip computer - you name it - it's got it!

My insurance has gone up from Group 4 (the old style Punto) to Group 6 and I have been told that this is due to the 16 valve engine.

So far I am really enjoying driving it - I feel like I am driving a totally different car - faster, quieter and much more luxurious. The only minus point is that the accelerator and brake pedals are too close together but that's about it. I
would highly recommend it for anyone who is thinking of buying a new "Supermini".

Summary: