Fiat Punto (1999) review
by Malcolm Baylis (11 December 1999)
There's an electric-powered shoehorn with the new Fiat Punto. For those with a bit of tech know-how, it is programmable electric power steering. And in action it takes all the shoulder-wrenching struggle out of turning the steering wheel when you get trapped in a tight corner, such as an NCP slot.
For the motorist it's a great but simple bit of worthwhile technology. All the driver has to do is raise his forefinger and stab it at a button marked "city" on the car's console and, wonder of wonders, the steering becomes fingertip-light, making manoeuvring, backwards and forwards, so easy that nine-point turns become a thing of the past.
It's formally called Dualdrive, but it should be known as Easipark because parking becomes an absolute doddle.
The "city" button brings a specially-designed electronic steering system into action, and the wheel becomes immediately responsive to the mildest of turns. Unlike the hydraulic type of power assistance, this revolutionary bit of equipment offers two different steering settings.
The first is suitable for driving around town and in and out of car parks, the second for all other driving conditions, motorways and the like, where greater steering sensitivity is wanted. The Punto is at present the only car of its class to offer this steering choice.
Be warned, though: it is not sensible driving to use "city" mode on the open road, because the slightest touch of the steering wheel can send the car into an almighty wobble - well not exactly almighty, but enough for the driver to break into a cold sweat. Fortunately, the system is able to recognise such stupidity and can turn itself off almost immediately.
The latest Punto range has an entry price of £7995 on the road, a mere £135 more than in the former range, yet compared with that outgoing version, the base model has much more than just the "city" power steering addition.
There's also a driver's airbag, height-adjustable driver's seat and steering, and adjustable lumbar support on the driver's seat, as well as a number of convenience and safety extras. They include delayed headlights which helpfully remain on for a short while after you lock the car, so offering a security light between car and house door, and a rain-sensitive automatic wash-wipe for the windscreen.
There are 16 models in the range, and a choice of five engine options, three petrol and two diesel, with the 1910cc JTD returning 57mpg at the combined rate.
The latest Punto also comes up with new technology in its automatic transmission. Speedgear versions have electronically controlled CVT as well as sequential selection, another first for its class.
The new car is slightly bigger than the earlier model, with the three-door model looking sportier than the five-door. Top price is £13,495 for the 130bhp 1.8-litre 16-valve three-door.
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