Fiat Argo: A closer look at the India-bound Punto replacement [PHOTOS]

Fiat's Brazilian subsidiary has released first images of its new hatchback Argo in May. The Italian car maker now released more images and technical details of the Punto replacement hatchback in the Brazilian market. The new hatchback is named after Greek mythical ship, Argo.

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Fiat Argo is also expected to replace ageing Punto Evo hatchback in India sometime in 2018. It will be pitted against Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Hyundai Elite i20 and Honda Jazz.

Exterior

Undoubtedly, Argo has a sleek design on par with any other stylish premium hatchbacks in the world. The swept back LED headlight and split tail lamps are slim but fit in perfectly with the modern design of Argo. The double barrel headlight with LED 'eyebrow' DRLs, Abarth-inspired honeycomb grille and air dam, and clamshell bonnet gives an aggressive stance up front.

A strong shoulder line connecting the front and rear lights running through the door handles complement the imposing look of the hatchback. The roof gets contrast colour on select variants. Matte-black along the bottom (depending on the variant) and blacked out B-pillar rounds off the visual appeal on the sides.

The rear gets a wraparound windshield, an edgy bumper design, and rear spoiler is in a contrasting finish. The boot lid features an enlarged Fiat logo in line with Mobi hatchback launched last year and chrome tipped exhaust pipe. Overall, the design of Argo is a huge step up from Punto.

Interior

Fiat claims the Argo has the largest cabin in the segment, with 2,806 litres. The layout of the dashboard is simple yet contemporary. Highlights inside the cabin are a chunky three-spoke flat-bottom steering, layered dashboard, a 7-inch touchscreen multimedia infotainment screen, 3.5-inch driver-information-display in the instrument cluster, automatic air-conditioning and ambient lighting. Rear seat amenities include a slide holder, a cup holder and a full USB port.

Safety

Argo is equipped with front side airbags and rear camera with dynamic lines and parking sensors. ISOFIX seats anchorages are standard on all versions of Fiat Argo. Depending upon the variant, the Argo also comes with Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control and Hill Holder function.

Engine and transmission

Fiat Argo comes in seven versions, offering three engine options, three transmission offers and three finishing configurations - Drive, Precision and HGT. The HGT comes standard with an ethanol-compatible 1.8-litre engine producing 139hp. This variant will do 0 to 100kmph in 9.2 seconds.

At the bottom of the range is a 1.0-litre Firefly 3-cyl engine producing 77hp and 107Nm. There is also a 109hp 1.3-litre 4-cyl motor developing 112hp and 139Nm. Fiat said these two will account for about 75% of sales. Another option is the 1.8-litre, 4-cyl, 'E.torQ Evo VIS' motor developing 140hp and 189Nm. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual transmission, a 5-speed AMT and a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Argo Opening Edition with Mopar accessories

Based on the HGT version, this model is limited to 1,000 units, bringing a set of Mopar accessories. Available only in Portofino Blue colour, it comes with black roof and external mirrors, and a spoiler at the back. Mopar accessories comprise of darkened aluminum wheels (16-inch), door sill guards, rubber mats, 60-Watt speaker kit and the 'Opening Edition' badge on the rear speakers.