While the 1.4 FIRE engine is a Fiat unit, the 1.8 engine is being sourced from GM in Brazil, through its Chevrolet brand. However the recent unpicking of the half-decade long agreement between Fiat and GM, means that this unit will soon be replaced by more powerful engine currently under in final stages of development by Fiat Brazil. A new 1.9-litre 16v powerplant, which is closely based on the former European-manufactured 'Torque' engine and with an estimated 130 bhp, will eventually replace the launch GM 1.8 in the line-up. The new 1.9-litre unit will make its local debut in the Linea '3-box' sedan, which will also be built in Brazil at Betim from the end of this year, and its arrival as an option in the Grande Punto is expected very shortly afterwards. Meanwhile, the long-running 1.4-litre 8v FIRE unit is expected to be upgraded and introduced in the future in the Grande Punto in 16v format, and boasting around 100 bhp. However this option is only in the proposal stage at present and not as yet signed off.

The new Fiat Grande Punto will actually arrive on the local market as an additional model in the Fiat Brazil line-up, slotting in above the Palio (which has just received a comprehensive final facelift) and just below the Stilo.
 

The Brazilian Grande Punto will feature a host of detailing differences between the European and Brazilian versions. A new interior will be offset by a slightly larger rear luggage compartment. Other changes include slightly reshaped door frame window apertures, new cylindrical front foglamps, tailgate lock barrel mounted just below the rear badge, a chrome finished front grille (to provide 'family' continuity with the Linea) while the 'Sporting' option, which aims to draw on the sales success of the European market's high-end Sporting version, will have darkened headlight backing plates, rear light housings with a white upper section (similar to the Grande Punto Abarth) and a Skydome roof as standard, although 16-inch alloy wheels will feature rather than the European 17-inch specification ones which will be an option. The new Fiat badge, recently introduced in Europe on the Bravo, and now on the 500, will make its South America debut on the Grande Punto. This will also place it ahead of Europe where the model is still sold with the blue background.

Prices in Brazil will range from R$ 40.000 up to R$ 50.000. The Grande Punto will be quickly rolled out onto the other major South American markets, including Argentina, Chile (where it will replace the European version currently being imported) and Mexico. Fiat Brazil will also investigate bringing the Abarth-branded version as part of a gradual global roll-out by Fiat of the Abarth name. However these models would likely be imported from Europe in very small numbers and attract a hefty premium. A 'hot', affordable version (in the vein of the successful Palio 1.8 R) is expected to be built in Brazil, while Fiat will also look closely at an 'Adventure' option, which would allow this very successful low-cost branding to move into a more premium segment.