Rumors were on rife that Fiat will discontinue Punto brand from its global lineup. In fact, Fiat has unveiled an all-new compact hatchback – Argo – for the Brazilian market and is also expected to arrive in Indian market. However, some media reports suggest that Fiat has already started working on the new Fiat Punto 2018 hatchback. Interestingly, the next-gen model has already been spotted testing in South America. The spotted model was fully covered in black cloth, indicating towards an all-new design. Read More – Fiat Argo Hatchback Price, Specs, Images
Launched in 2005, Fiat Punto was launched in the Indian market in late 2009. With timely updates, Fiat has been trying to keep its global brand alive. The company has recently stopped selling this hatchback in the European, South African and South American markets. With new generation model spotted testing in South America, it is expected that Fiat could re-introduce this hatchback in select international markets. Fiat India is already developing the Punto, and the next-gen model could also make its way to our market.
The new Punto will be developed on the company’s new SCCS platform. As a reminder, the current model is built on the same old platform developed jointly by Opel and Fiat. In India, the hatchback is powered by a 90bhp, 1.3-litre MJD diesel engine. It is expected that the same unit could be offered in the next gen model, which could be launched in late 2018. Upon its launch, the next Punto will take on the likes of Maruti Swift, Hyundai Grand i10, Toyota Etios Live and others in its league.
New Fiat Punto 2018 Price In India
The new generation Punto is expected to receive drastic exterior changes and improved cabin with premium features. With premium features, the hatchback is expected to be priced slightly higher than the current car. We expect the new Punto to cost between Rs 5.2 lakh to Rs 8 lakh. Read More – Fiat Tipo Sedan Might Replace Linea In India
New Fiat Punto 2018 Launch Date
If reports are to be believed, the new Punto will have its global debut in early 2018. Initially, it will go on sale in South American market, followed by Europe and other nations. In India, the hatchback could be launched towards the end of next year. We will update you as soon as Fiat announces anything on the same.
New Fiat Punto 2018 Specifications
The new gen Punto is expected to share its engine specs from the current car. It is likely to be powered by a 1.4-litre petrol and a 1.3-litre MJD unit. While the former is capable of producing 89bhp of power and 115Nm of peak torque, the diesel unit is good for 90bhp and 209Nm of torque. Transmission options are likely to include a 5-speed manual and an automatic unit.
New Fiat Punto 2018 Mileage
The new gen Punto is expected to be slightly more fuel efficient than the outgoing car. While the petrol model could return around 18-19kmpl, the oil burner is likely to deliver close to 25kmpl.
Instead of the current platform developed jointly by Opel and Fiat, the new generation Punto will use the new Fiat designed SCCS platform. It is expected to receive drastic changes on the exterior as well as interior. The cabin will get improved quality material & plastic, and is likely to get new premium features.
The new Punto is expected to share its design from the Tipo hatchback, which is already on select international markets. It will have Fiat’s family face with radiator grille and sweptback headlamps. The cabin of the hatchback could get Uconnect infotainment system with a 5-inch touchscreen display, multifunctional steering wheel, etc.
Image Source – Autobild
