The favourable press reaction to new Punto will have cheered Fiat dealers for the company remains heavily dependent on this single model. Profit potential is seen as low but has risen slightly and there are signs of a pull-back from the daily rental market though oversupply at nearly-new is still a problem. The company will have to tackle the middle market with Bravo and Brava replacements, due in early 2001, if it is to recover lost ground. The propects for niche products, such as Multipla and Coupe, are better - as is the LCV business which helps the company establish a solid fleet market.