India-bound Fiat Punto's successor gets the name Argo; to debut soon in Brazil

The third generation of Fiat's hatchback, the Punto, was released worldwide in 2005. It got a facelift and a new name Grande Punto in 2009 and another facelift in 2012 with a new name Punto Evo. However, the basic silhouette of the car remained the same and that means the car is now looking outdated. Now, Fiat is gearing up for the launch of the Punto replacement and it is called Argo.

Also read: Fiat Punto EVO Pure launched: What is it and how is it different from Punto Pure?

Fiat Argo has been teased in Brazil ahead of the global debut expected in the coming days. There is nothing to chew upon on the car since the teaser only confirms the new name. Even the images of test mules of the Argo doing the rounds online do not give any idea of the new model except for the basic outline of the body shell.

Fiat confirms the Argo is a car designed from scratch in every detail. It will be a complete premium hatchback with a focus on comfort and technology. Codenamed X6H, the Argo will be based on a stretched iteration of the Fiat 326 modular architecture.

Multiple reports indicate that the design of the Argo will be inspired from the Tipo hatchback, which made its debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show and is on sale in several European markets. The new car is expected to be equipped with a City drive mode for enhanced fuel efficiency and UConnect infotainment system.

The Argo is expected to be powered by a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol mill developing 100bhp and 1.0-litre three-cylinder petro motor with 72bhp output. The car is expected to be offered with manual and automatic gearbox options. Some spy shots also indicate that certain variants will have automatic unit with steering-mounted paddles. When it comes to India, a diesel engine will be on offer.

Fiat Argo is expected to reach India shores sometime in 2018.