2012 Fiat Punto: see what’s new in terms of features!

Fiat India launched the 2012 Punto on January 3^rd, 2012. The new Punto is priced in the range of Rs. 4.81 lakh – 6.85 lakh.

The new Punto is available in a new Oceanic Blue color. Other changes on the 2012 Punto include dual tone interiors, improved ground clearance and a more powerful air conditioning system. Fiat India has made many features such as music system, central locking, rear parcel shelf, power steering with tilt adjust as standard across all Punto variants.

The 2012 Punto is powered by the same engines that powered the previous models. This includes a 1.2-litre (1,172 cc) FIRE petrol motor, a 1.4-litre FIRE petrol motor and a 1.3-litre Multijet diesel motor. The 1.2-litre petrol engine puts out 67 bhp of power while the 1.4-litre petrol motor puts out 88.7 bhp. The 1.3-litre diesel of the Punto puts out 75 bhp of power and returns a claimed mileage of 20.3 kmpl.

Being a premium hatchback, the 2012 Punto has some noteworthy features and gadgets. Let’s take a look at them one by one.

Best-in-class ground clearance: The new Punto has an impressive ground clearance of 195 mm, the best in its class. This allows the Punto to take on even the worst roads easily without scrapping its belly.

Dual tone interiors: The 2012 Punto comes with brighter, black and grey interiors. The cabin now feels a bit more airy than the previous model.

Elegant central console: The classy central console has integrated music system and automatic climate control system. The music system can play CD/MP3, has FM/AM tuner and connected to four speakers. The automatic climate control system, along with rear AC vents at the foot well, ensures quick cooling of the cabin at the desired temperature.

Blue & Me: The 2012 Punto features ‘Blue & Me’ feature which is essentially a voice recognition technology. Phone calls can be answered while SMS’s can be read out. The steering mounted audio controls help the driver control the audio system without taking his/her hands off the steering wheel.

On-board computer: The instrument cluster on the new Punto has on-board computer. It displays external temperature, has a real time mileage indicator, a distance to empty indicator, service schedule reminder, date & clock setting, buzzer setting for speed alarm, automatic door lock and front passenger airbag deactivation.

Airbags and ABS: The Punto has safety features such as dual stage front airbags with early crash sensors. The ABS feature along with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) assures good control of the vehicle.