Fiat Automóveis introduces to the Brazilian market the Punto T-Jet which brings to the B-segment hatchback model a high performance range topping turbocharged version fitted with an 1.4 16v engine developed by Fiat Powertrain Technologies and a body design inspired by the European market's Grande Punto Abarth.

Fiat Automóveis introduces to the Brazilian market the Punto T-Jet which brings to the B-segment hatchback model a high performance range topping turbocharged version fitted with an 1.4 16v engine developed by Fiat Powertrain Technologies and a body design inspired by the European market's Grande Punto Abarth. Priced at locally at R$ 59,500 (20,000 euros) Fiat Automóveis expect the Punto T-Jet to account for around 10-15 pct of Punto sales in Brazil.

A pioneer in the development of turbocharged petrol engines in Brazil, Fiat Automóveis launched the first turbocharged model onto the local market back in 1993, with arrival of the Uno Turbo; this car was followed quickly by the Tempra Turbo (1994) and five years later by the Marea Turbo (1999). Last year Fiat presented to the local market its new four door saloon, the Linea T-Jet, equipped with the same engine as the new Punto T-Jet and producing a power output of 152 bhp and maximum torque of 21.1 kgfm at just 2,250 rpm.

The Punto T-Jet establishes a new parameter in its category in Brazil in terms of performance with its top speed of 203 km/h and acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in only 8.4 seconds; and besides this the fuel consumption is 10 percent lower compared to its competitors. The feeling of sportiness is amplified thanks to the exclusive transmission system, especially developed for this version to ensure vigorous acceleration without compromising the consumption and even noise at higher speeds.

Externally the Punto T-Jet offers several distinct features that exploit its sporting characteristics into an aggressive look and so it will be offered in only four body colours that evoke these characteristics: white, yellow, red and black. Exclusive sports shocks absorbers, mudguards, front grille, headlights and taillight with a darker finish, the aerofoil in two tone, rear spoiler, side skirts, chromed rear exhaust pipe and exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels and 205/50 tyres all add up to set this new model apart from the crowd. The Punto T-Jet is only being offered in 5-door format as only this version is built in Brazil.

Exclusive detailing can also be found inside the high standard cabin. The dashboard is inspired by the Fiat 500 model, with a soft touch and it is painted to match the colour of the bodyshell. Sports seats partially covered in leather cosset the occupants while the use of leather is also extended to the steering wheel, door panels and the gear lever knob.

The braking and suspension systems have been reworked with the aim of improving handling in light of the high performance of this model. Double airbags, ABS and EBD systems are offered as standard equipment. In terms of on-board technology the Punto T-Jet offers the cutting-edge Blue&MeTM Nav infotelematic package, which was developed by Fiat Group Automobiles and Microsoft's Automotive Business Unit. This innovative technology is a market first for Brazil.

by Claudio Perlini

Punto T-Jet Technical Specifications

Engine: turbocharged with fixed geometry IHI RFH3, 16 valves
No. of cylinders: 4
Arrangement: in line, front transverse
Capacity (cc): 1368
Power output: 152 bhp at 5,500 rpm
Maximum torque: 2,250 rpm
Steering: dualdrive electric power steering
Transmission: 5 speed gearbox
Front suspension: independent MacPherson type, telescopic dampers, anti-roll bar with small con rods and spherical joint; Rear suspension: torsion axle, telescopic hydraulic dampers
Front brakes: ventilated discs, diameter 284 mm; Rear brakes: discs, diameter 251 mm
Wheels: 17” aluminium alloy rim; Tyres: 205/50 R17”
Dimensions: Wheelbase (mm): 2501: Front track (mm): 1471; Rear track: 1467; Length (mm): 4030; Width (mm): 1687; Height (mm): 1505
Luggage capacity (dm3): 280
Fuel tank capacity (litres): 60
Fuel consumption: Urban cycle (km/litres): 12.3; Extra-urban cycle (km/litres): 16.4
Performance: Top speed: 203 km/h; Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 8.4 sec

Standard Equipment: 

Body-coloured bumpers; body-coloured door handles; electric body-coloured door mirrors; chromed rear exhaust pipe; darkened side and rear windows; rear spoiler; side skirts; leather seats, steering wheel and gear lever knob; sports instrument graphics; 17-inch alloy wheels and 205/50 tyres; front spoiler; Fiat code (electronic anti-theft device); electric front windows and electric door locks; remote control door release; electric windows active without key; one-touch driver’s side electric windows; electric rear windows with anti-pinch sensor; follow me home device; illuminated luggage compartment; trip computer; my car system (personalised car functions); third rear seat with 3-point seat-belt; third rear head-restraint; driver’s seat with height adjustment; height-adjustable front and rear head-restraints; steering wheel with height and reach adjustment; dualdrive™ electric power steering; manual climate control with pollen filter; cruise control; front deflectors; ABS+EBD; front airbags with smart dual stage system; crumple-zone front structure; FPS (Fire Prevention System); front seat-belts with pretensioners, load limiters and fastened sensor; anti-whiplash front seats; front and rear seats with anti-submarining cross-member; alarm; radio with CD+MP3 player; Blue&MeTM; steering wheel mounted radio controls with 6 keys.

Optional Equipment

Blue&MeTM Nav; dual zone automatic climate control; rain sensor; parking sensor; sky dome; curtain bags; front sidebags; driver’s knee-bags.