Monday 6th August 2007

Punto Sporting Warms Up Fiat Fans

Hotter Abarth versions planned for September

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You’re looking at the hottest Punto yet. Well,

that is until Fiat re-launches the historic Abarth brand later this year. As its name suggests, the Punto 1.4 T-Jet 120 Sporting uses a 120bhp version of Fiat’s new 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine. It will hit 60mph from rest in 8.9sec and tops out at 121mph. Despite this brisk performance, Fiat says the car only emits 155g/km of CO2 and will do 42.8mpg on a combined run.

There are enough cosmetic tweaks to excite hot hatch fans too, including 17in alloys, sports seats, roof spoiler and a chrome tailpipe. Prices will start from £11,995 for the three-door version, which is £1000 cheaper than the 118bhp Mini Cooper.

Hotter Abarth versions arrive later this year

However, this car is an aperitif before the main course arrives in September - that’s when Fiat re-launches the Abarth brand with two more powerful Punto variants. Both Abarth versions will still use the new T-Jet engine, but power will be turned up to 155bhp and 180bhp, respectively. Both should arrive in UK showrooms by the end of the year.

 

[sidesauce]

'Tis a good-looking car, this. Glad to see Fiat making a real comeback.