(Wed 23 Jul 08)

Two and a half years after the model was launched in the UK, Fiat has introduced a series of upgrades to the Grande Punto.

All versions now come with a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, and Fiat's Blue&Me hands-free communication and entertainment system is now standard across the entire range.

That range now includes several new models fitted with a new 77bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine which replaces the previous 1.2. Prices start at £9200 for the Active three-door.

There's also a new trim level called GP, which replaces the Active Sport introduced in 2007. Available with both the 1.4 petrol engines (77bhp and 95bhp) and the 75bhp 1.3 MultiJet turbo diesel, GP models come with "dark" headlights, 16" alloy wheels, front foglights, a rear spoiler and sporty interior trim. The cheapest model is the 77bhp 1.4 three-door at exactly £10,000.

Four paint schemes - Bolero Red, New Wave Blue, Psychedelic Azure and the rather alarming Caribbean Orange - have been deleted, but three more have been introduced: Rap Yellow, HillBilly Azure and Ska Red.

If you want to spruce up your Grande Punto's appearance still further, the good news is that Fiat has extended a feature previously applied to the 500 and introduced sticker sets (including chequered or Italian flag sidestripes, among others) for £150 and white, steel grey, chrome or black door mirror covers for £70.

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