THE trade has recognised that with the Grande Punto, Fiat really upped its game on build quality and reliability.

And with new prices usually lower than rivals you can buy a later car with the same amount of cash or loan.

The Grande Punto is fun to drive, with great road holding and handling giving a really sporting feel.

Engines in the range of three and five door hatches start with a 65bhp 1.2-litre and then there are three 1.4s, with 75, 90 and 120bhp.

There are also four choices of diesel - a 1.3 with either 75 or 90bhp, a 1.6 with 120bhp and two 1.9s with 120 or 130bhp.

All Puntos are easy to live with. They have a good ride, and decent performance from smooth and quiet engines.

At the top of the range the 120bhp T-jet petrol is a gem, free revving and full of fun yet still capable of over 40mpg.

All have CD stereo with steering wheel controls, "see you home" headlights and electric mirrors and windows.

They also come with remote locking, twin front airbags, height and reach adjust steering and height adjust driver's seat.