2001 Fiat Punto Sporting review from UK and Ireland

Rust on a spot weld behind tailgate hinge, repaired under warranty.

Rubber hose on Air Con unit replaced under warranty after argument at garage (this is a known fault and a different design is put on).

Gear cable adjusted.

Despite the problems above, all fixed under warranty, here is a little review of my car:

What a little gem! I was on the look out for a small, economical yet sporty car and was having trouble finding one. But when my friend turned up in his new Punto Sporting, I just had to have one.

The exterior styling is sharp and fresh, with mine coming in a clean looking and cool as ice "Astral Blue". The small changes to the exterior of the standard 3dr Punto (small rear wing, small side skirts, excellent alloys all sharpen up the European edge of the car.

The interior is very impressive. The sports seats look very smart, not over the top, and are very comfortable and supportive to match, with height, tilt, slide and lumber adjustments. The interior is of a very high quality finish, ahead of most other cars I looked at (fiesta, corsa, fabia, clio). The on board computer is excellent, and helps you keep driving as economical as possible if that's what you want.

I've had it up to 68mpg, OUTSTANDING, although 50 around town is more like the norm.

I was wary of getting a fiat because of past quality issues, but this is excellent, very well put together and very solid, with 8 yr anti corrosion.

The power from the 1247 cc 16v motor and six speed transmission is excellent, great acceleration and cruising is very comfortable.

The car is very safe, with high levels of grip and ABS as standard.

There is a button which reduces engine power and makes the steering unbelievably light, excellent for parking and the city.

The sound system is pretty special too with a sub woofer and 6 cabin speakers as standard, as does remote central locking. Mine also has Air Con.

I would definately buy another, well done Fiat!

I paid £6500 for a 19month old model with 15000 miles, from Fiat dealer with remainder of 3yr warranty and AA cover and road tax.

Early depreciation makes it a good buy after 18months, as this car is £12000 new.