Fiat introduced a facelift for the second generation of its small-segment vehicle, the Punto, in 2003. It was more than just a new pair of headlights and body-colored bumpers.
These were introduced along with the refreshed version, but that was only to satisfy the market's new taste for sharper lines. Sometimes, the differences between a facelifted and the non-facelifted version of the same car are so subtle that you'd have to be an expert to see them. But it wasn't the same situation as Punto's second generation.
Fiat installed a completely new front fascia for the refreshed Punto lineup, with bigger headlights extended over the hood and swept on the sides. The engineers asked for a grille above the bumper to increase the cooling factor. On the lower side of the bumper, a pair of side-scoops were integrated, with the fog-lights inside. But Fiat still didn't install body-colored door handles. At least the door mirrors were not black anymore for the entire range. The taillights were redesigned and extended over the tailgate, increasing the car's visibility from behind.
Inside, a new dashboard with a slightly different center stack was installed. Depending on the trim option, an electronic climate control system was installed to enhance the driving experience. New materials and new colors contributed to a significant sales increase for the Punto. Thanks to the rear doors, the passengers' access to the back seats was easier.
Fiat installed more powerful engines under the hood, but the base version kept the same 1.2-liter with 60 hp. Three new engines improved the fuel-efficient Punto diesel versions, starting with the newly developed, 69 hp 1.3-liter unit.
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