Fiat Grand Punto - Diesel Road test

How's the running cost looking?
From the 130bhp car, you can expect an average of 36.2mpg and a 0-60mph thrust of 9.5 seconds. At the other end of the scale, the 90bhp 1.3 musters 61.4mpg and reaches 60mph in a not-so-bad 11.9 seconds. I forgot to mention the cheaper 75bhp version? Yes, that's because it's considerably slower and drinks a touch more to the gallon. So avoid it.

And what does Active, etc, give me?
Your local Fiat dealer will happily explain the options, but 'base-spec' Active makes a strong case for going no further. It includes a trip computer, remote central locking, height-adjustable driver's seat, ABS with electronic brake control, CD system, electric tailgate release and electric door mirrors. You even get audio controls on the steering wheel and headlamps that stay on until you've got the key in your front door. Apart from side curtain airbags, Active Sport is more for those in desperate need of making a statement: leather steering wheel, 15-inch alloys, rear spoiler and sideskirts, you get the image. Dynamic spec ushers in air con (which you can't help thinking Fiat might have put in the Active spec at the expense of deleting a few trinkets), while Eleganza, aimed at the grey pound, features parking sensors, armrests and lumbar adjustment. Sporting spec flaunts max-size 17-inch alloys, front fogs and (like Eleganza) Bluetooth socketry.

So what's the best to drive?
Given that it's clinched the five-star NCAP safety status, you'd think it might be a bit of a mule, but it feels light, fairly crisp and eager to push on over a cross-country run. Whether you're a boy or a girl, there's something very 'come play with me' about this model, but don't rush into long-term commitment before you've found the perfect Punto partner. With a huge array of colour and trim choice, the right one is definitely there.

So your recommendation?
Well the feeble entry-level diesel rules itself out, but the remaining 90bhp 1.3 puts in a tough fight against the 1.9-litre alternatives. Take any of the Grande Punto diesels to high speeds and the engine sound is lost beneath what little wind noise manages to intrude. But if you drive the 1.9s, capable as they are, it's the 90bhp 1.3 Dynamic to which your heart returns. It's got a sophisticated six-speed box, promises to run on the housekeeping budget of a woodlouse and, unlike the Active, has air con. In essence, this is a well-balanced car, offering chic design, decent build quality and - as the Grande badge suggests - a knee-swing's more room than before. Fiat is back on form.

Tiscali rating: 9/10 Italian as pasta, just faste