Car of the Year 2004
The name of a veteran graces this all-new model of city-car size with the usefulness and equipment of a much bigger vehicle. While Fiat announces future 4X4 and even an sporty Abarth version, a single body style was enough for this tall mini to get general praise. Roominess and cabin flexibility are often mentioned, as well as the reputation of the Italian manufacturer to make clever, practical small cars and to offer them at very competitive prices. Driving position and high-mounted gear lever are a plus. While petrol engines go almost unnoticed, the impressive, fuel-sparing 1.3 Multijet diesel is quite unusual in the segment and gets full approval. Its 70 hp provides very good performance. There are slight reserves for the road behaviour, even if it is described as more than appropriate for city use.
