SOME car names just seem to rumble on to infinity, but moving with the times is not so easy as retaining a name.
One model which has achieved this magic formula without losing its initial sparkle is the Fiat Punto, the reasonably priced Italian supermini that offers a stylish alternative in a crowded market sector.
More than five million Puntos are now rolling around Europe - 50,000 of which are in the UK - and the latest model which went on the market last August has been skilfully updated to retain the Punto's colourful character and incorporate much more modern features.
Italian cars in the past have often suffered from criticism over reliability, but it is to Fiat's credit that UK warranty company Warranty Direct named Punto in its reliability index as the third most reliable small car on Britain's roads.
There is now a 22 model line-up embracing six trim levels. I tried one of the most popular choices, the new 1.3 litre 16-valve Multijet turbodiesel.
To keep the Punto at the forefront, Fiat has not just relied on a styling update but also increased levels of standard equipment within version upgrades.
This policy has made the Punto grow into a sophisticated little car without any massive price hikes. For example, the five door version of the model I drove costs £10,495 and that is towards the top of the price spectrum. A basic 1.2 petrol three-door can be bought for £6,995.
Under the bonnet, the 1.3 16v Multijet is the latest generation diesel to grace a Fiat. Maximum power of 70bhp plus a combined fuel consumption of 62.8 mpg place this car in a very special class.
Whereas other manufacturers are working with complex electric power-assist systems that return up to 60mpg, Fiat has shot towards the 70 mpg barrier with development of the tried and trusted diesel. Indeed this model's out of town fuel consumption readout is 72.4 mpg so the next target for this going places technology is 80 mpg!
And you don't compromise on performance because this dynamic diesel can sprint to 62 mph in 13.4 seconds and achieve 102 mph.
FAST FACTS
Fiat Punto 1.3 Multijet Dynamic
Price: £10,495
Mechanical: 70bhp, 1,248cc 4 cyl turbocharged diesel engine driving front wheels via 5-spd manual transmission
Max speed: 102 mph
0-62mph: 13.4 secs
Combined mpg: 62.8
Insurance group: 5
CO2 emissions: 119g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 8yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint