Derived from the Grande Punto launched in 2005, the Abarth Grande Punto `199` arrived in 2007 with a `155 hp` 1.4 T-Jet prepared by the Turin scorpion brand. It went straight after cars like the Renault Clio RS in the market for affordable hot hatches.
The `199` platform later evolved into the Punto Evo in 2010 and then the later Punto in 2011, with small styling and electronics changes but a closely related mechanical base. The `163 hp` 1.4 MultiAir Turbo appears on the Evo to cut emissions while keeping the family spirit intact.
The whole `199` family therefore shares the same basic watchpoints: the six-speed manual gearbox can be awkward when cold, and the 1.4 T-Jet needs quality engine oil on short intervals if the turbo is to last.
