Fiat Punto Hatchback (2003 - 2006) 1.2 Active 3d (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I can't afford an upmarket car (which I can't because of being young and cant get insured).

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Friends think it's slow but quite comfortable, and they love the space in the front. Family say it's fine (but they will).

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would buy a Punto again, but it would have to be the 1.4 Sporting model. It has much more power and gadgets.

What are you likely to buy next?

Not entirely sure, depends on how old I am when I get my next car because of insurance. If I wait until i'm 21 I will either get an MG ZS (facelift), a VW Golf 5/6 or a Grande Punto T-Jet/Abarth.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,400

When did you buy the car?

November 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

No, I thought the car was a little overpriced considering it is the base spec.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Low insurance group as I was 17 at the time of purchase.

What was the dealer like?

Seemed OK. I used Hampshire Car Sales in Farnborough

What's it like to drive?

It's fairly comfortable, and relatively quiet for a cheap car, but it is incredibly gutless on the motorway and makes driving on motorways not very relaxing. On country roads it is very easy and predictable to drive which is good from a safety point of view. Once you are up to speed it's quite lively in the corners, but still feels very underpowered and you need lots of room to overtake. As the brakes are solid disks, they fade a little when pressing on. The steering isn't too bad communication wise, but it's not particularly accurate. You have to remember though that this is a town car, and it is nippy in first and second gear, easy to park, the clutch and gears are light so it is a doddle to drive.

What's it like to park?

Well, it has a steering wheel and windows, so yes it is. On a more serious note, it has a 'city' button which makes the steering incredibly light (it's light anyway) and it allows you to dry steer with a finger.

Have you had any problems with the car?

- Leaky cam cover gasket, but easily fixed on the cheap. - Speedo sensor went @ 40k miles. Cost £80 to replace. - Squeeky rear suspension that seems to not want to go away.

What's most practical about your car?

The space in the front and the fuel economy.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

My 12" subs that I have filled the boot with =]