2000 Fiat Multipla ELX review from UK and Ireland

1. 'ABS faulty' appeared on the display in extremely cold weather. Apparently this is caused by ice around the braking system and should be ignored (!)

2. Handbrake jammed, again, during the icy conditions locking the back wheels. Revised handbrake and 'anti-freeze lube' fitted by dealer.

3. Leaky sunroof which caused window motor to fail. Sunroom frame and motor replaced, guttering cleared around frame. All paid for by an obliging Fiat UK and my very *helpful* dealer.

4. Exhaust back box replaced at 30000 miles by Kwikfit. The technician claimed it was the easiest replacement he had ever come across!

Before 2000 I would not have touched the Fiat marque with a barge pole (and I actually do own a barge pole).

My brother used to own a 127 and the pair of us have been scared for life.

However, when the Multipla came along I just had to have one. The unique styling was definitely the thing that swung it for me. The car performs well too. I get roughly 30mpg on long trips, which doesn't seem too bad for a vehicle of its size.

However, the aircon does seem to place an enormous load on the 1.6 engine. Turn it off if you plan to drive up a hill in low gear!

Just a quick note about the Fiat dealer network. I am shocked to hear of everyone else's experiences. I have had nothing, but great service from Fiat UK.

Two dealers you might like to try if you are in these areas:

Fish Brothers of Swindon

D.Salmon Cars of Colchester.