Faults:

The dashboard display has recently become faulty. When turning off the ignition and leaving the car, any combination of dashboard lights (eg., park brake, oil warning lamp etc) remain ON. Similarly, the temperature gauge shoots straight up to mid-way even when the engine is cold. Dealer will be looking at this fault next week and has admitted that I am the 4th person to visit them with this common computer-based fault.

General Comments:

Many feel the new Punto is not comfortable. I find it very comfortable and adore the driving position with the height-adjustable driver's seat and steering-wheel. The power steering is just right (not too light, not too heavy). This is assisted in car-parks by the extremely light "City" mode which you have to remember to switch off when you hit the main road (otherwise you would end up in ditch).

The front wipers sometimes make a funny clicking noise. The engine performs well for a 1.2 8 valve. However, I have had slow starting on cold mornings (the starter motor turns a little slow, but it always starts). Also, I wonder when the day will come when Fiat will seek advise on how to manufacture reliable electrics. Overall, I'm pleased with the car, but fear faults occuring in the future - especially electrical ones.

Faults:

Squeak from the rear, fixed, I have been told it was the hand-brake's cable that needed for lubrication

Noise from the steering column, fixed, bolt out of alignment and centered by FIAT service

One line on the rear window is not heating, I am still waiting to get the rear window changed, to get the other problems fixed I had to wait 3 weeks to get booked...

General Comments:

The car is fantastic, for the price you pay, you get fun with no limit.

The C.V.T. gearbox works nice and what impressed me is that even if you are already going fast, with the economy button off, if you push the accelerator down, over the point it becomes harder to push (Kickdown function) the engine goes at 6000rpm, but you get a real sense of acceleration like you are driving a 2000cc petrol...

General Comments:

This car is simply a dream to drive.

After owning a several diesel cars with their ability to hardly-ever stall, I was scared that getting into a small-engined petrol car would take a lot of getting used to.

However, there was no problem what-so-ever and I can even trundle along in traffic jams with the clutch up and no throttle!

I spent a long time searching before I found this car, and can say without any doubt that this is seriously well equipped for the money.

The CD sounds lovely with a deep, rich bass and is easily heard over this extremely quiet engine.

The steering is very tight and responsive and the 'dual-drive' power-steering makes parking incredibly easy even though you'll never need to use the 'city' setting.

The almost-bucket style seats are beautifully comfortable.

The only draw-back I can find is that the rear view is quite restrictive, especially looking over your right shoulder.