2004 FIAT Multipla 1.6L 5MT FWD (103 HP)

Vehicle Overview

It’s no secret that the first model released in 1998 was not that well appreciated. I mean… it did win the Top Gear Car of the Year in 2000 due to its practicality, but still got the title of the “Ugliest Car” within the same programme.

For 2004, Fiat tried to rectify the exterior design and the model underwent a huge facelift.

Aesthetically, the all new Multipla featured new headlights, a reprofiled hood and a generally more streamlined look, turning it into a more anonymous and less controversial vehicle. The bulge where the hood and the cabin met was removed. The new Multipla was 2cm wider and 4cm longer, with a revised bumper.

The innovative three-by-two seating layout was kept, thus the small Multipla could accommodate up to 6 occupants.

Inside, the cabin’s design was not really updated, thus the dashboard was already looking a little dated. The quality of the materials used was not the best, but everything looked well put together.

The cabin was roomy and the trunk’s size was enormous for a car of this size.

At the wheel, the driver had a good driving position and enjoyed increased visibility, while the dash-mounted gearshift was within easy reach and worked smoothly.

The trim levels SX and ELX were replaced by the new Dynamic, Dynamic Plus and Eleganza. The base model was almost-well-equipped, featuring anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution, front airbags, electric windows and others, but still lacked air-conditioning.