Faults:

A couple of months ago my exhaust starting blowing; I never had any intention to get a sports exhaust, but I thought I might as well; this only cost me 300 hundred pounds, money worth spending in my opinion, because it sounds sweet.

I need a new horn because the old one sounds like it's being choked, which isn't very pleasant. Also, my driver air bag warning light has started to come on, so I guess that's going to cost me a bit.

One thing that I wasn't happy about, was I didn't get a spare wheel in the boot of my car, I got one of those puncture repair sprays that you spray in the valve, then pump it up. All very well if it's a little puncture, but if it's a slash, I'm up a creek without a paddle.

General Comments:

I have had my car for over a year now, and I think it's a fantastic little car. This being my first car, I didn't have any expectations, but I have to say I'm very happy with it.

I've replaced the air filter and the old cassette radio for personal reasons, swapping to a K&N air filter and a JVC CD player.

But overall I would say I'm very happy with this car, and I would definitely advise someone starting off to buy this.

I will miss it when I sell it, but needs must!!

Phil.

Faults:

Oil leak after the first service.

General Comments:

The Punto is an excellent car for short distance driving, it is comfy to drive and very economical.

For the price the car is of decent quality and has a very sporty interior with it's chrome panels and sports seats.

The car is very slow, but we only use it for short distance driving and it is great for that (getting 45mpg average).

This car was designed to be a city car and rises to it perfectly.

Faults:

Still has the fuel cap problem of the original Punto, where the pump will cut out unless you fill up slowly.

Other than that a very reliable little car.

General Comments:

I have always owned Italian cars and this is the second we have had in the family, the last one being a first generation model. There is a massive difference in the quality between the two, even though for a small car there was nothing wrong with the older model. Doors shut with a nice clunk and the car feels solid and drives like a much bigger car.

Always get as good a deal as possible, FIAT always run 0% finance on and off on models. The company is also struggling a bit so haggle, they want that sale!

Equipment on the Eleganza is second to none, with electric windows and mirrors, alloy wheels, remote central locking and dual zone climate control.

As for the engine, the 1.4 16v has 95bhp which in a small car makes for more than adequate performance 0-62 in 9.9sec and a top speed of 110mph. Economy is good, even driving in London traffic I got a return of 40+ mpg. In typical Italian style the engine is very willing and likes to be revved. The engine is pretty quiet when cruising, though it can sound a bit harsh.

The car handles well and ride is good, the car is comfortable on long journeys, the only real downside to the car is rear access on the 3 door model.

Hopefully the old problem of naff service and dealers is being dealt with we will see on the first service.