| Week at the Wheel | Fiat Punto Evo Sporting |

Inside & Out:

Given that the Evo is, by definition, a new version of the old Punto, it is slightly odd that, to our eyes at least, it doesn't look as good as its predecessor - specifically around the front end where the new grille treatment is heavy handed. Elsewhere on the outside things haven't changed too dramatically and there is much that is familiar and much to like about it.

On the inside, things are significantly changed for the better. Memories of nasty plastic Fiat interiors of the Nineties are banished courtesy of a broad spectrum of materials and textures laid out in a carefully crafted style. It stands comparison with the competition from MINI and the Citroen DS3 also. Things have moved on technologically as well, thanks in no small part to the docking point for a TomTom device that becomes not only the satnav, but also, courtesy of neat systems integration, the key pad for your phone, an output for the trip computer and a variety of other functions: neat and clever.

Engine & Transmission:

Fiat Group's MultiAir engines have been met with universal praise since their introduction and the 135bhp version fitted here suits the Sporting tag well. It lacks a little of the charm of older naturally aspirated engines, but there's no arguing with the output figures from the little 1.4-litre unit, nor the performance that equates to on the road. Lengthy gear ratios mean the engine picks up revs relatively slowly, making for deceptively rapid progress. There's a little bit of turbo lag, most noticeable when moving away, but nothing excessive.

Back in the mid-nineties the original Punto range was fired by fizzy little petrol engines that were a joy to thrash within a rev of their limiters. Those days may be gone but the MultiAir engine makes a decent fist of being enjoyable to play with whilst meting out a healthy dose of poke, along with torque figures that would have been hard to fathom - and harness - in earlier versions. While of course returning economy, and subsequently emissions, figures that are almost at odds with the performance on offer.

Ride & Handling:

In comparison to recent fast Fiats the Punto is a pleasing move in the right direction. The additional power of the MultiAir engine doesn't corrupt the steering excessively and the chassis is competent enough to make use of the performance on tap. The ride quality is firm, but not to the point of being unpleasant, and the trade offs are roll-free, flat and assured cornering. All that's missing is a little more feel and involvement.

The grip levels are such that it isn't easy to explore the limits of the Punto's chassis on the road. Undoubtedly quick from A to B, the surfeit of grip prevents one from tapping into the depths of the Punto's chassis and become intimate in the way that leads to more gratifying driving pleasure enthusiasts would seek. In a similar vein, it is slightly annoying when driving the Sporting (in the manner that its engineers probably intended) enthusiastically that you are greeted with early intervention from the ASC (which can be turned off), while heavy braking triggers the emergency braking hazard warning lights - a reflection of modern motoring I guess.

Equipment, Economy & Value for Money:

Specification wise, the Evo contains every feature most buyers would deem as essential as far as comfort and safety goes and the options list gives individuals plenty of scope for creating their own bespoke car. The MultiAir engine ensures that the performance available isn't paid for at the pumps and a figure of 40mpg is easily achieved at a cruise. Push on and a realistic average comes down to just under 30mpg. The Punto Evo is priced competitively against its rivals, especially given its all-round abilities. A 30-second trawl of the internet found a best price of £13,800 from an online broker.

Overall:

The Punto has truly grown up into an accomplished all-rounder. Fiat has moved the game on a long way with regard to aspects such as quality. However, with this maturity, so some of the more basic enjoyment has been lost. If anything, the Punto Evo is now perhaps too refined to be a thrilling junior hatch. Those looking for raw driving pleasure are better looking toward something with a Renault badge. As a comfortable and stylish small car though, the Punto Evo Sporting has many merits and is well worthy of consideration.