2001 Fiat Punto Sporting review from UK and Ireland

Nothing has gone wrong since I bought the car.

I didn't set out to buy a Punto tough I've been driving a friends Punto all last summer in Italy - that car was excellent.

So I found myself with a 33,000 2001 Punto Sporting. I've now driven 1500 miles and can say that the car is excellent, stiff suspension, but that's because it's a sports set up.

1st through fourth gears are great - fast - but 5th & 6th are just for cruising. If you don't have momentum going up hill its quickly 6,5,4 the newer 1.4 probably copes better here. But then I don't expect miracles from a 1.2 engine. I am happier that I get a little over 50 mpg.

The bucket seats are VERY comfortable, leather steering wheel is great, so is the firmness of the PAS, six gears excellent. Visibility and and maneuverability fine. Wide profiles stick like glue to the road, excellent cornering.

As for the styling a real eye catcher - my Punto is in metallic burnt orange - looks fabulous. Nice interior, orange back lit everywhere at night its very restful and easy to see controls.

Stereo, well haven't used the cassette player, but the radio is A1+ Blaupunkt as is the multi-changer which is nicely fitted and easy to use. The factory installed woofler & 6 speakers are excellent. Top marks.

What else can I say, drives beautifully, economical, looks great, very comfortable, reliable to date - and yes, now I would look favourably at buying a FIAT in the future.