2012 Fiat Punto to Be Unveiled in Frankfurt, Sales Start Next Year

While the steering isn’t as sharp as a Golf, and the gear shifting isn’t that precise, we love the value for money that the Fiat Punto offers its customers looking for Italian chic on a budged. The model that was originally launched in 2005 has had both major and minor surgery done to its front end, interior and trim, but we’re afraid that another one was deemed to be in order by the Fiat top executives.

The 2012 takes the changes brought about by the 2009 introduction of the Punto Evo and accentuates them even further.

The new looks will be there for all to see at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, with sales to begin early next year in all major markets across Europe. On the outside, the Punto shows a new front distinguished by a bumper entirely painted in the same shade as the body and not that plastic we’ve come to dislike over time.

“The Fiat Punto also continues to be a constant point of reference when it comes to engine innovation. They are increasingly livelier and thrifty both with diesel (MultiJet) and petrol (MultiAir) supply, combining innovation with eco-friendliness every single time,” Fiat boasts about the changes taking place under the bonnet.

However, the only truly note-worth change is the introduction of the award-winning 900cc two-cylinder from the little 500. When combined to a 6-speed manual gearbox, this 85 hp unit could substantially reduce the Punto’s thirst for fuel while only emitting 98 grams of CO2 per kilometer.

This year’s IAA in Frankfurt will also mark the global debut of the new Fiat Panda, as well as three Abarth special with a lot of fan appeal.

Better looks, frugal engines and a green paintjob - we have to give it the thumbs up.