Basically it is down to poor build quality and the subsequent two efforts of the franchise where the car was bought, that have failed to put it right.
Looks great, but the 1.6 engine is poor and doesn't do justice to the design of the car.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 22nd April, 2001
A very individual choice that makes you feel special and gets you noticed
Problems with the immobiliser key.
Rear wash wiper came loose (No PDI check?).
Persistent trim rattles at low speed.
Fantastic styling for the money, looks like a 25k car and attracts a lot more attention than a Puma.
Fully independent suspension and Porsche tuned chassis make this the best handling car I've ever driven. No body roll whatsoever.
Acceleration is fairly sluggish but pulls well in 5th, marred by a heavy body, the 2.0 isn't that much quicker but this car is more about style and individuality than it is about performance.
Gearing is too short at 20.5mph/1000rpm, but the 16 valve engine is keen and smooth at high revs so cruising isn't a problem. Too much road noise for this class of car.
Power steering is heavily weighted and gives good feel round corners. Limitless grip from 205/15 Michelins.
Very solid feel to bodywork and switchgear. Very low sporty driving position.
Rear seats useless if you are over 5.6, but if that matters to you, go and buy a Vectra!
Looks its best in silver, blue or black. Looks dreadful in light green. Aircon, alloys and metallic essential.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 19th April, 2001
Basically I am quite satisfied with this model, unfortunately this car was not supported by sufficient power like what people think and as matter of fact this car only has about 130 HP, therefore I need optional stuff, whatever it is, in order to increase the engine power. Is that possible?? If someone has any ideas, please the information to eh@indosat.com
The 2litre engine puts out 139BHP (apparently) and the 1.6litre has a measely 115BHP. I know which one I would prefer!!!
Pretty car, but I was disappointed when I drove one. Very slow and it was the 2.0 model. Still, I imagine most people buy them for the looks and you can't lose there.
Hmmm Pretty car!!! In my opinion its the ugliest car ever built with the Fiat People carrier that name escapes me second. I am a design engineer and it fails on every count cosmetically and otherwise to be pretty.. I guess ugly girls would not have boyfriends if Hyundai had sold none of these cars.. some one has to like them.. It may be good, but it is just plain ugly its passing has made our streets look nicer shame the Santa Fe 4x4 took its place. I guess the designers that fail at fiat have to get a job somewhere ... UGLY pure UGLY
7th May 2001, 23:55
Wait till you've got a few thousand miles on it, it will loosen up nicely. Mine was a bit rough from new, also the 1.6 engine is very sensitive to being kept topped up with oil or it sounds awful! Rev it a bit, there's no power below 4k revs, then it springs into life.