|  |  | | Front
The line of Fiat Grande Punto reinterprets the image of previous models in a dynamic, sporty key, combining hitherto irreconcilable elements. This is borne out by the aggressive front that is modelled to respect the canons of pedestrian impact protection. The approach, of both the composition and the modelling, is the fruit of careful analysis and is developed to respect the latest standards, which envisage more rounded volumes, a wider bonnet and tapered bumper structure, perceptible above all in the plane view, keeping the area of impact to a minimum.
The windscreen and the bonnet are pronounced and homogeneous: because there is no clear break between the two elements (an accentuated bonnet and sharply raked glass) they are perceived almost on the same line, a characteristic that highlights the sporty nature of Fiat Grande Punto. In line with the requirements of the latest standards, the grille highlights the break between the bonnet and the front bumper, which tapers off as it links up with the wheelarches. A rib starts from foglights which flow into the sides, as you would expect from a sports car, linking them to the lower air intake at the centre. And there is a rib between the headlight and the foglight which lightens the wing and reiterates the same graphic feature. And the faired headlights are also stretched and elongated towards the side, to suggest sportiness and dynamism.
Side view
From the side, a 'groove' runs all along the side, starting from the middle of the wheelarch and blending into the rear end on the tailgate. The door handles are aligned with the same groove, while the fuel filler cap, no longer rectangular but round, is positioned slightly lower down.
Fiat Grande Punto has another feature that sets it apart from previous models, whether 3 or 5-door: a third window in front of the front door and the extremely sporty mirror which was designed to increase the aerodynamic effect of the pillar.
Attention is drawn to the large wheels by the emphatic strong, muscular wheelarches, which give a feeling of strength and solidity. And finally, the edge of the sill under the doorway protects occupants from any splashes and spray, creating a balanced, harmonious effect together with the rear bumper, and the protruding edge under the number plate holder.
Rear
Continuing the tradition established with the first Punto, the new model has faired vertical light clusters incorporated in the two rear pillars, where they are protected and visible. These devices have three distinct functions, achieved by their very design which also suggest enhanced aerodynamics. The muscular rear gives a powerful imprint to the car, underlining its sporty character. The tapered roof terminates at the rear with a 'spoiler' effect between the two rear pillars, incorporating the central brake light. And the wrapround bumper incorporates the number plate so that the panel below the rear window is uncluttered, highlighting the only important graphic effect: the Fiat logo. And finally, the rear reflectors are built into the foglights in the lower part of the rear bumper which creates a sort of aerodynamic spoiler.
Interior
The styling underlines the sportiness of this strong-minded, lively, exuberant car, one that likes attention, reflecting the new market trend for this segment, and catering for the wishes of an increasingly discerning, demanding public. While on the outside the Grande Punto reflects a new concept of sportiness, on the inside it combines the practicality and exploitability of the interior with quality and elegance. The result is an amazing amount of room, and comfort well above what one would expect from a car in this segment in terms of ergonomics and space for the driver and passengers.
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