Reviews - Fiat

Overall Rating

Multipla is Fiat's individualistic solution to the challenge of getting extra seats into a compact package. With a tall, wide body allowing three-abreast seating front and rear, it succeeds brilliantly.

• Roomy six-seater internal layout
• Lots of space inside
• Drives well

• Looks strange
• Dash-mounted gear lever takes getting used to
• A bit too wide for narrow parking bays

Whether Multipla strikes you as aesthetically challenged or a styling triumph will determine whether it makes your midi-MPV shortlist. Like many radical designs, this is a car that polarises opinion. Most users love it there's an enthusiastic owners club already. Its unique interior makes it tops for practicality. Six people sit in comfort, still leaving plenty of room for luggage. Take the rear seats out (singly or all together) and load space reaches van proportions. Interior styling is just as challenging as the exterior. It's funky but highly practical, with good equipment and pleasant trim. Air con is an extra-cost item on the cheaper SX model it's desirable. And Multipla drives well, too, with precise handling, confident roadholding and not much roll. Parking in tight spaces can be tricky because of the car's width. Engines are willing but quiet; the 115 bhp 1.9 JTD is favoured and gives nearly 45mpg.

JD Power stars: 2

NCAP: 3

Best Models: JTD 115 ELX

Worst Models: 100 16V ELX

Replacement: 2007

• Ford Focus C-Max
• Toyota Corolla Verso
• Vauxhall Zafira