Fiat Punto Abarth for India has been officially unveiled at Buddh International Circuit today on the sidelines of the Italian performance brand’s sales debut in the country. The first offering is 595 Competizione which packs in 158 bhp and sets you back by INR 29.85 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi).
Punto Abarth seen here is specifically developed for the Indian market. Visually, there isn’t much to set the hot hatchback apart from its civilized sibling. Exclusive elements include contrast horizontal slats on the front grille, secondary air dam and rear bumper, red ORVMs, side decals, new sporty alloy wheels and signature scorpion badges.
Inside, the full black color theme of 90 HP Punto diesel variant has been carried forward but Fiat logo is replaced by the scorpion badge. The slightly revised seat fabrics benefit from contrast red and yellow stitching (trademark Abarth colors). Machined pedals are the other noteworthy items in the cabin.
While cosmetic changes are minimal, changes under the hood are extensive. The hot hatchback is powered by a pumped up version of Linea’s 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine which is expected to produce 145 HP and around 200 Nm of torque. Transmission is a 5-speed manual unit.
The suspension is stiffened and ride height is reduced by 20 mm in enhance dynamics.In order to handle the added power, Fiat has stiffened the suspension and lowered the ride height by 20 mm. However, the wheels remain as 16-inchers which are wrapped in 195/55-R16 rubbers from Apollo.
Fiat is expected to launch Punto Abarth by October this year. The go-faster version of Avventura which was also spotted testing alongside its hatchback sibling is expected to be launched a few months down the line.