FIAT Auto matched an incentive scheme created by the Italian government to encourage the country's drivers out of old cars without catalytic converters.

The manufacturer offered Italian consumers who want to buy a new Fiat and Lancia can benefit from nought percent finance.

It said: 'Government incentives, coupled with the initiative launched by Fiat Auto, enabled Fiat customers to buy a Punto model for about 2,800 Euros less than the list price.'

Prices for the Punto in Italy start at 10,230 Euros. Fiat Auto said the scheme is part of its commitment to the environment.