| New Engine Range | Fiat Grande Punto 1.4 T-Jet 120 Sporting |

Before the Grande Punto Abarth is launched later this year, Fiat will introduce a new engine to the Sporting model with the intention of keeping warm hatch fans content, and it'll act a taster for the more powerful car to come.

What's particularly interesting about the new Grande Punto Sporting is Fiat's new T-Yet engine - recently launched in the Bravo. The 1.4-litre unit, part of a family of new direct-injection turbocharged engines from the Italian manufacturer, produces 120bhp and 152lb.ft of torque and propels the quickest Punto available to 60mph in a respectable 8.9 seconds (0.2 seconds quicker than the MINI Cooper).

There's currently a trend away from naturally aspirated engines towards those that displace less but are augmented with a turbo or supercharger - or both in VW's case. The pursuit of greater economy is first and foremost why this avenue is being explored by several manufacturers.

Due to the modest size of the T-Jet engine, and given the performance on tap, emissions are quite low at 155g/km of CO₂. Fuel consumption on the Combined Cycle is 42.8mpg, which may not be class leading (the MINI returns 48.7mpg), but it's frugal for a performance orientated car.

The Sporting T-Jet will face competition from MINI, Peugeot and Renault among many others. The comparable MINI Cooper is the benchmark in this part of the market and the Peugeot 207 Sport is a strong package too. But the Sporting looks to be excellent value; starting at £11,995 for the three-door model and £12,595 for the five-door. Standard equipment is better than most including 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, sports seats, ESP, six airbags and some distinctly sporty exterior detailing.

The new car is available now and we'll be able to report on how well it drives in the near future. Keep an eye on the Fiat Road Tests page.

Richard Tanner - 7 Aug 2007