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Will be WISE to rush into this buy!!!

A Review by Shan on Fiat Grande Punto 1.2 Active
29 June, 2009 (Last Updated: 18 July, 2009)
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I was as stunned by the looks of this car as most others are. But seeds of doubt have begun sprouting.
Issue 1 - mileage: with auto mag Zigwheels having quoted the mileage of the 1.3 diesel as low as 12 kmpl and the petrol 1.4 as 9kmpl, I'm downright sceptical about the value of this car.
Issue 2 - interiors : the grande punto has been in use abroad and you can easily find many reviews on the net. While most expert reviews hail the punto as a VFM car, there are innumerable user reviews that agonize over badly fitted interiors like glove box lid, door handles that come off or stop working, and power windows that get jammed. Nagging little problems that take away the pleasure of driving. Add to it Fiat's poor service network and you begin wondering if you'll be holding a broken trophy in your hand sometime later.
Issue 3 - power of the engine : i'm looking out for the 1.2 Active model which gives 68 bhp of power. Considering the Grande weighs 1140 kgs, this will most likely make for a not so swishy ride. But i'm not a very spirited driver and i prefer the luxurious feel of an easy drive. More so the other car in the same budget and comparable space is the Getz prime 1.1 option, which gives 67 bhp, albeit for a lighter frame. I can say that the low power doesn't bother me much as of now. In fact i like that the max torque is peaked at 2500 rpm, and the pick up wouldn't feel that bad unless i'm trying to overtake a sports car! But nevertheless, i will be a little complexed on a high way.
Issue 4 - lack of buyer enthusiasm (?) : well its been almost two weeks since the launch of the grande and the dealer tells me that he's only today handed out the first punto to a buyer. They're quick to add that there's a great response and they're booking almost three everyday, but frankly, i've already spotted a couple of Honda Jazz 's in Delhi. And not a single Punto! The reviews on this site just refuse to grow though i check them out everyday. I thought we could get some first hand mileage figures here but that seems a long way coming. Could it be that barring the trickle few of us, there are hardly any takers for this car?
I do hope my doubts are rested with time and this car turns out to be a winner like it purports. But only time will tell if it will be so!

Update: tomorrow is 1st july and most new cars will start being delivered tomorrow. please please guys, come on and give us the mileage figures on this car. I know it can and will give good mileage but i just want to hear it confirmed!!!


UPDATE AGAIN (18/07/09): GUYS THE VERDICTS ARE FINALLY OUT! THE GP IS A WINNER!

ISSUE 1 - mileage problem resolved. the 1.2 fire is giving over 14 kpl. This is confirmed by a few friends who have already taken it and few reviews on sites like www.team-bhp.com

ISSUE 2: Again, the hypnosis of the GP is such that these things really take a backseat. The envy of other road mates will make you feel at the top of the world.

ISSUE 3: People who have bought any of the models are quite happy with it. In fact, its soon becoming a rage! I hope it will soon leave the Swift biting dust.

ISSUE 4: I was probably too hasty to come to this conclusion. From what i am seeing the number of posts on this site has shot up to 30(AS ON 17 JULY) and the discussions have heated up. Lots of replies and queries are popping up. Way to go Punto!


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46 Comment(s) on this Review

  1. on 30 Jun, 2009 at 09:37 AM Voldie

    zigwheels is lying. mileage cannot be that low. i a also going for petrol 1.2 as it seems most economical and good VFM

  2. on 30 Jun, 2009 at 09:24 PM Suchet (New Delhi)

    shan, i am planning to buy the 1.2 myself.

    although even i am waiting for the real world mileage figures, the mileage you mention above cannot be true. i've been told the linea with the 1.4 petrol engine is giving a mileage of 12kpl in the city. i dont expect it to be below that.

    the performance... the active feels better than the what the figures say. i guess the low end torque helps. (the 1.4 is not as responsive at lower rpms)

  3. on 02 Jul, 2009 at 02:30 PM Rupesh Vashist (New Delhi)

    The car is best in class. Getz is becoming the same old model (not much difference in looks of prime), Indica loose in features and moreover looks, DZire and Swift waiting time will make you strategic planner (2-3 months), Accent loose being old model. Window jam must be a specific case and I have seen similar problem many time with Maruti. The car is far more superior if we compare one to one on features with any similar car even if one is ready to put one more lakh on other cars. Worth buyin

  4. on 02 Jul, 2009 at 03:18 PM Nick

    I have booked one 1.3L which should give not less than 15km/ltr in city.

    The mileage given by Zigwheel seems to be wrong as its the original engine which is being used in more than 5 indian cars.

  5. on 03 Jul, 2009 at 01:55 PM Shan (New Delhi)

    @ Suchet: any luck with the mileage figures buddy? Most people who have bought seem to be in the 1.3 or 1.4 category. I am planning to book with Rama motors, okhla. But no concrete numbers in the 1.2 category still.

  6. on 04 Jul, 2009 at 12:02 AM Shan (New Delhi)

    @ rupesh: hi glad to know you are such an ardent fan of the punto.!! Yes it DEFINITELY is the best car in this segment and will soon be a darling of many. Hopefully we will be amongst the first few owners of this beauty.:-) happy driving.!!

  7. on 07 Jul, 2009 at 05:24 PM Alex A (Bangalore)

    can anybody tell me the onroad price of punto? i too wanted to have a Bold drive... :)

  8. on 07 Jul, 2009 at 11:08 PM Rishabh (Kolkata)

    Guys i am also planning to buy a 1.2 but with the mileage figures not yet out and the low power for the heaviest hatchback seems to be a bit of a considerations.Moreover the dealers are nt getting a grt response for the 1.2 version.
    I hav been told that the interiors of 1.2 are nt dual toned and the grey feel at the back does nt excite me at all.
    When i sat at the drivers seat, the feel was not as great as a Ritz or even Indica. I felt i had sunk in the seat and the view of the road was not go

  9. on 08 Jul, 2009 at 06:18 PM Suhas (Bangalore)

    Hi guys, i've been waiting to hear more about this car, as thinking and serious about 1:2.
    Please feel free to share your experience in every aspect.

  10. on 09 Jul, 2009 at 06:44 PM Sohini (Agra)

    I test drove the 1.4 Petrol ( Emotion )yesterday.The pick up is something to talk about and the interiors are very sporty,needless to say the buck seats ( just like sports cars ). Only concern is I hear from some experts that on a very high speed the Punot starts to rattle ans also that the Punto that is launched here is nothing like its counter part in European countries.There its bigger and a 1. 5 engine. But must say the look of the car doesnt let you batt the eye once. Its a beauty!!Go chec

  11. on 10 Jul, 2009 at 07:12 AM Shan (New Delhi)

    I test drove the 1.2 yesterday. Took the car for quite a long stretch to get a good feel of it. As expected,the 1.2 engine is not as good as the others when u think of it. But then, its a ful 75k cheaper than the next trim! Whats more, the mileage would probably be better than 1.4. The car wil need skillful manouvering,so for those of us who dont like to change gears too often,this wont be it. But if, like me, u dont hav a problem with downshifting on a speedbreaker,it should feel pleasant enoug

  12. on 10 Jul, 2009 at 10:31 AM Shan (New Delhi)

    the car may not be a breeze to drive, but it sure has the looks and the feel. compare it with other cars in the same segment and you very well realize that in terms of sheer looks, safety and ride comfort its the BEST. What else does one need?

  13. on 10 Jul, 2009 at 04:51 PM Mitesh Patel (Mumbai)

    Hi

    Even I am waiting for the milage and performance figures. I had almost zeroed on the Hyundai i20 but after seeing the pictures I am waiting for this cars true review. 1.2 is clearly underpowered with the size and weight. I am planning a test drive this weekend of 1.4, hopefully it will help me decide. Any update on milage and performance front?

  14. on 10 Jul, 2009 at 06:17 PM SAM (Pune)

    Shan...even I'm willing to book a 1.2 active but since I'm not sure FE will wait for your views on the FE part once you buy one..

  15. on 10 Jul, 2009 at 07:56 PM Shan (New Delhi)

    Hi. I'm optimistic about the mileage figures coz those of 1.4 are already out. the FE of lower engine should be lil higher. Also I noticed that FE of 1.2 engine with same power, torque figures on 1.2Active 3dr model of Grande Punto abroad have touched 50 mpg(roughly equal to 20 kpl). I can try and post the link if anyone wants. The kerb wieght of 3dr punto is only slightly lesser so FE of this one shouldn't be too less. I'd be happy if it gives 15 kpl.

  16. on 10 Jul, 2009 at 08:02 PM Shan (New Delhi)

    check this out http://cars.uk.msn.com/Research/article.aspx?cp-documentid=475472

  17. on 11 Jul, 2009 at 07:38 PM Nitin Kumar (Pune)

    I am also waiting for mileage figs. If 1.2 Active is able to achieve 13-14km/l, I'll surely go for this one.

  18. on 13 Jul, 2009 at 09:04 PM Nimesh (New Delhi)

    Please Note: Please be nice, don't be personal in any given cirumstances. If you don't like the review or you think that the information provided is inappropriate, use Report Abuse link just below the review, CarWale.com administrators will take care of it. Any personal attack, harsh comment, abuse or any other kind of offensive comment will be deleted immediately.

  19. on 15 Jul, 2009 at 10:14 PM Achint Kaul (Surat)

    Punto will be a good option as its service setup is backed by Tata Motors.
    Mileage will atleast be 16 in deisal also i do agree the interirirs are bad

  20. on 16 Jul, 2009 at 05:24 PM Nimesh (New Delhi)

    Took a test drive of Punto 1.2. It is great for city driving. The sales representative told me that their 1.2 test drive car is giving a fuel efficiency of 14 kmpl. That is great for a test drive car in city.

  21. on 17 Jul, 2009 at 03:02 PM Bruce (Chandigarh)

    @ sohini

    You will always find differences in car models across the globe. Companies have to tailor made the product. Indian roads and speed barriers demand engines like that only, price also plays an important role.

  22. on 18 Jul, 2009 at 12:28 PM Shan (New Delhi)

    Guys buck up! This one is definitely winning hearts across the country! It won't be a bad decision at all to purchase one of these beauties. The 1.2 is giving good mileage, The 1.4 is good fun with lots of power, and the 1.3 MJD is a sure lady killer. Man the car looks hot in red! Though i have now booked a 1.3 Active - color choice either REd or Blue or White! AM STILL UNDECIDED!!!! HELP SOMEONE!!!

  23. on 18 Jul, 2009 at 07:55 PM As (Dehradun)

    Hi
    I am waiting for 1.2 test drive but not available so took it in 1.4.I live in hills will 1,2 be able to take hights and curve, will it be able to over take evena M.800 as overdrive reviewer claims that its good only for city driving.It has poor boot space like Ritz and no bottle space.only external looks and poor internal space, will take Punto to-How Far.Jazz has amazing frugal,efficient 1.2P engine,is Punto any way matches it. I will like to know before i book 1.2P Punto.
    AS-SRI

  24. on 18 Jul, 2009 at 11:16 PM Kapil (Chandigarh)

    is anybody is driving 1.3l diesel GP, i am planing to buy one. can any one conform me the city mileage.

    what about level of engine noise, my friend told me he has taken the test ride and he finds engine noise too cranky as compare to deisel swift.

    pls help me........

  25. on 19 Jul, 2009 at 10:44 PM Shan (New Delhi)

    @anonymous: friend i think the 1.2 might not exactly be butter smooth in hills, but if you don;t mind revving the engine then you can be happy. but still if al your driving is inhills you may check out the lighter korean cars.
    @kapil: friend you are right, the diesel engine does make a lot of noise, but that sound you will get used to after some time. well it sounds very sporty i must say.

  26. on 03 Aug, 2009 at 01:31 PM Sreekanth (Bangalore)

    Yup, compared to Swift Diesel noise is pretty high though the windows are closed, but the driving feel and rigidness of the body and top end engineering are on more positive end of this car. My only concern is how will be the service and availability of spares after 3 years.... any comments. On the other hand 1.3 is offering an excellent mileage in city as well as highways ( Please search through TeamBHP site for ownership reviews and complete review of the car with photographs)

  27. on 17 Aug, 2009 at 11:21 PM Santosh (Bijapur)

    Hi friends i am planning to buy 1.2 active, but there is no test drive vehicle available for this variant in chennai, can any body tell me about this, is this engine powerfull compare to other small cars

  28. on 17 Aug, 2009 at 11:27 PM Santosh (Bijapur)

    shan i already took a test drive for 1.4 Ltr engine for short distance it was nice pleasure, but let me know about 1.2 active engine performance if you already drove it..?

  29. on 22 Aug, 2009 at 11:57 AM Kiran_Pal07

    Hi, Here come one more Punto fan .. My montly drive will be around 1000Km took TD of 1.4 ,1.3 and 1.2 ..
    1.4 rocks but considering for mileage and city driving planning to go for 1.2 .. 1.2 felt good and for city drive its pleasant ..b’cos of buget am planning to book a 1.2..Please Punto customer given an update on performance and FE on 1.2 variant

  30. on 24 Aug, 2009 at 11:29 AM Abdul

    Abdul, Chennai
    Hi All,
    I own a 1.3MJD /Active done 1100Kms, gives me a mileage of 15kmpl in chennai. A wonderful VFM car. so enjoy her and leave aside those niggles which seem to be exagerated in reviews.Very much driveable everwherejust a matter of driving a few days and she will fall into your style.
    Compared to my Santro- 10kmpl, I spend 1/3rd less on fuel and get 50% more mileage. So effective savings is around 50% fuel cost. Helps me pay 25% of my EMI

  31. on 26 Aug, 2009 at 10:58 PM Arahanu (Bangalore)

    Hi, I need suggestion. I am planning to go for Punto 1.2 petrol. I see that this model does not come with central locking, so I requested Dealer to install Auto cop. But dealer denied and informed that it would avoid electrical warranty on the vehicle. I am not sure if this is fact and also like to know if there is any alternative solution for the same.

  32. on 02 Sep, 2009 at 03:13 PM Bhalchandra

    I spoke to a FIAT PUNTO company official who said in the current form we cannot install AUTO COP in Active verison of PUNTO. Apparently they have not made a provision in the car. When suggested that the dealers should be instructed to communicate this to the Active buyers clearly, he rudely repiled that you should have asked it. Guess that means we should ask every possible qns that you can think of

  33. on 07 Sep, 2009 at 04:20 PM Ajay

    Hi all
    I own a active since two months and the car is a head turner,has good suspensions,Mileage is 14 in highways and 10 in peak traffic.The car feels strudy planted in the road.Feels low in height(but can get adjusted).

  34. on 11 Sep, 2009 at 03:00 AM Anurag (Ahmedabad)

    okay so the car is great for city driving!!!

    i wanted to ask a few questions to punto 1.2 owners.

    1) you dont get central locking as standard!! can this be installed on extra charge at dealership!

    2) can you get key-less entry system from the dealership itself!! if they don't allow it from outside. i really like the desmodronic key!!

    3) this is the most important change i hate the plastic black door handles and mirrors!! it looks cheap!! can these be changed to body colored at dealer

  35. on 11 Sep, 2009 at 03:02 AM Anurag (Ahmedabad)

    i dont mind paying extra for these changes i mentioned!! but are they possible!! at all!?

  36. on 18 Sep, 2009 at 01:27 AM Ashish Shaema (Navi Mumbai)

    Will it not be able to run at about 100 to 120 km/h ? If its so safe a car one shouldn't bother about speed so much. Anyways, atleast I have no plans for F1.

  37. on 19 Sep, 2009 at 03:57 PM Gokul (Bangalore)

    @Anurag/others: The disheartening part of the 1.2 is that there is no central locking, and worse you can't custom fit it. :(

    But the car is really savvy!! ::p

  38. on 19 Sep, 2009 at 04:47 PM Ravinder Gupta (New Delhi)

    Central Locking can be installed, which would be a part of the Xenos Security system available for around 4k.

  39. on 22 Sep, 2009 at 11:06 AM Santosh (Bijapur)

    If dealer is Denying to install center lock, i prefer go to other dealer, because i saw accessory list yesterday and centre locking is available in that, and also I had test drive of 1.2 Active which was having centre locking system

  40. on 22 Sep, 2009 at 11:10 AM Santosh (Bijapur)

    you can have all these changes in your 1.2 active model
    -Front Black grill to chrome
    -center locking
    -rear two door poeer window
    -body color door handle and outer mirror
    -ant corrosive paint coating
    -music system sony explode/Blaupunkt
    -seat cover
    -steering wheel and gear knob leather cover
    just check with other dealers guys......

  41. on 08 Oct, 2009 at 03:22 PM Khanolkarsg (Mumbai)

    Can somebody tell me the milage of 1.2 and 1.4 petrol car that they are getting in city and on highway? I would like to book this car in Diwali. You can reach me on 9820863130 or khanolkarsg@rediffmail.com.
    You are feedback will be highly appreciated.
    Regards,
    Santosh

  42. on 08 Oct, 2009 at 03:38 PM Khanolkarsg (Mumbai)

    Can somebody tell me the milage received for 1.2 petrol and 1.4 petrol Punto? You can call me on 9820863130 or mail me on khanolkarsg@rediffmail.com.
    Your feedbak will be highly appreciated.

    Regards,
    Santosh

  43. on 11 Oct, 2009 at 12:39 PM Dinesh Shetty (Baroda)

    Fiat and TATA both suffer from poor build quality.
    Send them to Skoda for training. Not that Skodas service is great.

  44. on 14 Oct, 2009 at 11:28 PM Dev (New Delhi)

    Hi Shan/All,
    I really like the Punto but cant decide btween the Ritz & Punto.The Ritz is available for 4.15 lacs delhi onroad Lxi & Punto 1.2 for 4.10 lacs.Frnkly spkng it wud take a lot of guts for me to buy this car- main reasn being the Tata sales & srvce.I hav always owned a Maruti before & no othr company comes close in terms of service.Can any1 advise about the servce provided by Tata to Fiat cars.Also when u go to a Tata showroom salesguys r mostly promotng Tatacars instead of Fiat.Delh

  45. on 15 Oct, 2009 at 09:35 AM Sahni_Mayur

    Folks, I am booking my Punto today. Took a test drive for the fabia, jazz, swift, ritz, and i20. Jazz had the best drive quality but its stupidly priced and the skoda was noisy (maybe just the one I got). The best VFM I saw in punto going for 1.4 Diesel with Emotion Pack.. Wish me luck!!

  46. on 17 Nov, 2009 at 07:24 AM Ankurk

    annyone tell me the exact figure about mileage.auto car india mention punto active 1.2 mileage to be 9.7

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