2002 Fiat Seicento S review from UK and Ireland

The car engine cut out, but with much trouble started again before the recovery van arrived. This happened again and it had to be towed back to the dealer for a replacement fuel pump.

I had a Panda 1000 two years ago which was ace, but it ended up scrapped with rust problems. I discovered a love for little Fiats and the concept of being "fun to drive". A Cinquecento followed which I felt was a bit underpowered so I went for a new Seicento which I couldn't resist after sitting in one when I went to the dealer for a spare part for the Cinq.

The Seicento is built like a big car with doors that close nicely and smooth, solid controls. The electronic speed sensitive power steering is excellent, making it even easier to park. I was doubtful about the need for it on such a tiny car, but now I've experienced it I wouldn't be without it. The gear change is very positive; a definite improvement over predecessors.

At last Fiat have dumped that 900cc engine that didn't really have the power for the Cinq. The 1100cc Seicento has plenty of power and even with four adults on board it still goes. The fuel economy in reality is better than the Cinq too as it doesn't have to be pushed to the limit to make it go. I get 45mph round town and over 55mph on a good run.

The handling and cornering are almost as good as the Panda was at low speeds and it is also excellent at high speeds. For example at 80mph on the motorway it handles the bends well, even where 50mph is suggested by the roadsigns!

The most enjoyable experiences in the Seicento are racing round country lanes and parking in the multi-storey in a particularly small space that no-one else could fit into.

Dislikes: Stereo; No CD option or rear speakers on the S model. I have put this right with a Pioneer unit that was easy to swap and wired up a pair of 16cm speakers in the parcel shelf. Also the wheels don't look brilliant and reasonably priced alloys don't seems to be available to fit. The seats are good round town and for 2-3 hours, but are uncomfortable after any longer. That said it is intended to be a town car.

It's even more of a bargain now as Fiat are offering the S for £4995.