Car Statistics: Fiat - Punto Evo Series 09 (4 stars)

Styling (3 stars)

Cosmetic additions, particularly around the front-end, ensure that the Punto Evo stands apart from its predecessor. Some of the changes can make what was a clean design look a little cluttered, but we like the boot release catch which has been neatly integrated with the Fiat badge.

Handling (4 stars)

The Punto Evo handles safely and without fuss. The steering's a bit sloppy at time, with lots of play around the straight ahead, and there's a bit of torque steer with the more powerful 133bhp petrol engine. Otherwise, the Fiat will satisfy most owners on the road.

Comfort (3 stars)

The seats aren't shapely enough to really cosset occupants and they're also a little too firm. At least the driving position is fully adjustable though. Ride quality isn't bad, although there can be some jarring on the worst urban roads, and road noise is kept pleasingly mute.

Quality (3 stars)

The previous Grande Punto had a poor reputation for quality and did bably in JD Power customer satisfaction surveys. Many of those issues seemed to have been addressed here, not least with the heavily upgraded interior, although there are some flimsy plastic away from the eyeline which you wouldn't find on more upmarket rivals like the VW Polo. Fiat has an improving reputation for reliability, but its dealer network in the UK is often complained about.

Performance (4 stars)

The sprightly MultiAir petrol engine with 133bhp offers the most zip, until an Abarth version is launched, that is. The 1.3-litre MutliJet diesel's 0-62mph time of 13.2 seconds sound slow, but its mid-range torque makes it seem lively enough on the road.

Roominess (4 stars)

There's plenty of room for two full-size adults in the back, although taller passenger may be squeeze for head space. The boot is also pretty spacious.

Costs (5 stars)

With petrol and diesel engines returning in excess of 60mpg, the Punto Evo will prove cheap to run providing it's reliable. Fiat is offering a five year warranty in case it's not. Tax discs for most model costs just £35 and it's in the low 15 percent benefit in kind category for company car drivers.

Value (4 stars)

With prices frozen for the launch, the Punto Evo represents good value, although there are cheaper entry points into the supermini class. Nonetheless, customers are paying the same money as they would have for a Grande Punto for a car with much more going for it and more equipment.

Stereo (4 stars)

The TomTom sat nav system has plenty going for it. There's an easy to use touchscreen and it's been neatly integrated with the Blue&Me media system for music playback.