IT can only be described as a renaissance of the automotive kind. When once it was synonymous with dodgy cars, the Fiat brand has become desirable again.

It may seem unthinkable given the Italian make's past reputation, but with the determination of a charismatic CEO, a 'new Fiat' was born.

The 'new Fiat' refers to a new generation of Fiat cars, and in particular, to a trio of models which represents the company's vision, technology, quality and commitment to the environment - the Grande Punto, Bravo and 500.

The first was introduced here a year ago, and the second is being launched this weekend.

While the Grande Punto stands out for its sensational styling (it looks like a mini-Maserati), the Bravo is less successful. It isn't ugly but it only has one attractive side - its rear end.

But the best parts of the car are all inside. The dashboard is the first surprise. Its soft-touch material has a carbon fibre-like pattern which is both nice to look at and touch, while the centre console provides a contrast against the textured surface with its smooth acrylic and metal trim for the RDS audio system and dual climate control airconditioner.

The Bravo may be a compact five-door hatchback but there is more than adequate room. The rear seats are more spacious than they look, thanks to hollowed out front seat backs, and the boot is wide and deep.

But it is the drive which stands out as the Bravo's best feature. There are two models, and both have a 1.4-litre-engine driving the front wheels. But while the Bravo churns out 90hp, the turbocharged Bravo GT has a heady 150 horses and 206 Newton-metres of torque.

Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox (a five-speed automatic will be available in a few months), the Bravo GT is the epitome of Cat A fun. The gearchanges are slick, the pedals light, and the moulded steering wheel quick and well-weighted.

There may be slight turbo lag under 2,500rpm but once the revs pile up, the Bravo GT is entertaining stuff. Charge hard into a corner and it hangs on tenaciously to the line chosen, only succumbing to mild understeer at the limits. And all this from an engine less than 1,400cc.

The power plant does sound a bit tinny though, and the brakes could have better feedback. But they hardly detract from the Bravo GT's delightful dynamics. This car is fun, yet practical. Fiat is back.

Engine: 1,368cc turbocharged
Gearbox: 6-speed manual transmission
Max power: 150 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Max torque: 206 Nm @ 2,250 rpm
0-100 kmh: 8.5 secs
Top speed: 212 kmh
Price: From $73,900 (with COE)
Distributor: TTS Eurocars, tel: 6842-2222