The Fiat Grande Punto and the Suzuki Swift have been neck and neck in nearly all the super-mini comparison tests across the pond, but what about the hot hatches? Suzuki showed its new Swift Sport at the Paris Motor Show. The Italians are ready to hit back, but with a much harder punch coming in the form of the turbocharged Punto, and spy photos are floating around the 'net.
Due next summer, the Grand Punto Turbo (which may or may not warrant the Abarth moniker) will get the Fiat Group's new 1.4-liter turbocharged four with either 120 or 150 hp. The photos also show upgraded wheels and tires, beefier brakes to help keep the extra horses in rein, and a new exhaust system. An upgraded sportier suspension with stiffer springs, thicker anti-roll bars and/or a lowered ride height would also be a good bet. Also expect electronic traction and stability control systems.
A turbo engine coupled with Giugiaro styling should make for a winning package that'll leave the Swift in the dust, but still be short on power to take on the Renault Clio Sport. Which is a shame, because who doesn't like to see Fiat dig into its pockets to take on Renault?
(More images after the jump)
[Source: Onet.pl Moto via Motor Authority]
Sign in to post
Please sign in to leave a comment.
Continue