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 The next
generation Fiat Punto is set to be unveiled
in Spring 2005 with production models coming on stream in September of that
year. Codenamed as Project
199, the new model will share it’s underpinnings with the next generation GM
Corsa planned for 2006.
The all-new floorpan, referred to as ‘Small’, has been developed by a mixed team
of Fiat (60%) and GM-Europe (40%) engineers. The ‘Small’ project represents the
first co-development by Fiat and Opel, who are
already collaborating over powertrain development.
The new Fiat
has been styled by Giorgetto
Giugiaro, who was also responsible for the original
Punto and Uno models. Insiders are
reportedly very satisfied with the new car’s looks, which is more rotund and
organic than the current sharp-edged design.
The front will be characterised by a low nose reminiscent of the Maserati 4000
GT, whilst the rear end will continue the high-placed tail lamp design, which
has been present on the popular Punto model
since its introduction in 1994.
The new
Punto will be among the first cars to be
engineered to meet the tough new 2005 pedestrian impact regulations, which
require more deformable bodywork forward of the front wheels. For this reason
the Punto will be large for its class, with an overall
length of 3900mm, a wheelbase of 2460mm and an overall height of 1500mm.
text by James
Granger |
