Fiat Argo revealed in sporty avatar; to replace ageing Punto hatchback

Following a series of teasers, Fiat's Brazilian subsidiary has released first images of its new hatchback -- Argo. The new hatchback is set to replace the ageing Punto hatchback in the Latin American market and is expected to reach Indian shores in 2018.

Also read: Fiat likely to replace Punto, Linea in India with Tipo and Argo

Codenamed X6H, Argo is based on a stretched iteration of the Fiat 326 modular architecture. The two images released are of HGT trim and the hatchback looks sporty. The red accents for the front and rear bumper, two-tone alloy wheels and plastic edging around the arches make the Argo HGT trim a head tuner.

The design of the grille has been inspired from the Tipo hatchback that Fiat sells in the European market. Swept back LED headlight and split tail lamps are slim, but integrates well to the modern design of Argo.

A strong shoulder line connecting the front and rear lights running through the door handles complements imposing look of the hatchback. While it's difficult to tell in black, it looks like the ORVM caps and rear spoiler are in a contrasting finish. Overall, the design of Argo is a huge step up from Punto.

There are no images of the interior available at the moment. The HGT version is reportedly powered by a 139hp 1.8-litre from company's E.torQ powertrain family. That makes it a hot hatch and direct rival for Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS in India.

The regular versions of Argo will be fitted with 'Firefly' engines in Brazil. Buyers will be able to pick from the 1.0- and 1.3-litre mills. When it comes to India, both petrol and diesel engine options are expected and it will be carried over from the Punto Evo model. The 90hp 1.3 multijet diesel and 68hp 1.2-litre FIRE petrol model is expected to get tweaks for increase power output.