2009 Fiat Grande Punto Dynamic 1.2 petrol from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Best supermini I've ever had

Faults:

Drop link on passenger side front at 52000 miles. Approx 25 euros to replace, and 20 euros to get it fitted.

Rubber dropped off clutch pedal. 15 euros to buy a new one.

Replaced the two rear tyres at 60k.

General Comments:

This car is not as quick as the old Punto, but it is bigger and more comfortable.

It is just as reliable and economical as the previous model.

The car will accelerate quite quickly if I stir up the revs for overtaking.

I would recommend it for anybody looking for an economical, comfortable, reliable supermini.

One criticism; there is no storage place at all in the car, except the door pockets and glove compartment. The old model had nooks and crannies everywhere.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th January, 2013

26th May 2015, 21:58

I've now had this car three years, so I think it's time for an update.

I've put 20,000 miles on the clock and these have been trouble free.

Shortly I will replace the radiator fan, just in case it might fail as these cars have a reputation for blowing the head gasket.

A rattle developed in the driver's front suspension, and that turned out to be a broken spring, but the roads here in southern Ireland are rubbish, and anyway my mechanic tells me it's an all too common fault on European cars.

The other fault I've spotted is rust under the lip of the tailgate; not bad, but it shouldn't be there; maybe it's because I live three miles from the Atlantic Ocean.

No other complaints at all, and I would still recommend this car to anyone. 10, or nearly 10 out of 10 to Fiat.

P.S. It's returning 46 MPG.

2009 Fiat Grande Punto Sporting T-Jet 1.4 turbo from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Lovely looking Italian design, comfortable and easy to drive, however a few niggles let's it down

Faults:

Electric window wiring had to be replaced at 4000 miles.

New wiper motor required at 5000 miles.

General Comments:

Lovely looking car, comfortable and refined, with plenty of pulling power from the little turbo. It is quicker than most 1.8 or 2.0 hatches, due to the torque and weight of the car.

The steering takes some getting used to, as it is very light and needs more feel when going into corners, and can often feel a little dangerous if you're not used to it. The car handles quite well however, and the engine is great to drive, and it's economical for a warm hatch.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 3rd December, 2010