Fiat Idea Review
Published: 3rd February 2005
FIAT Idea 1.3 Multijet 16v Active
How It Drove - Performance
The FIAT Idea is powered by a 1.3 litre 16-valve MultiJet diesel engine which produces 70 bhp at 4000 rpm and an impressive 133 Ib.ft of torque at just 1750 rpm enabling it to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 15.4 seconds and continue to a top speed of 99 mph.
The mere thought of a 1.3 diesel engine would have horrified us a few years ago but diesel technology has advanced rapidly and we were impressed with FIAT's Multijet engine. It performed admirably on a trip from Devon to Bristol along the M5 remaining in 5th gear whilst climbing a hill at 70 mph. Weighing just 130 Kg, the 1248 cc, 4-cylinder in-line unit is the smallest and most advanced second generation common rail, direct injection, turbodiesel in the world. The MultiJet engine technology promotes smoother, quieter combustion, reduced emissions and increased performance.
One commentator stated that the 1.3 diesel engine was noisy but
we disagree - yes you know it is a diesel but we wouldn't describe
it as intrusive. The engine offered lots of torque which resulted
in a spirited drive and it pulled well in all gears which compensated
for the occasional lazy gear change.
The jury of the International Engine of the Year Awards were obviously
impressed and have elected the 1.3 litre MultiJet turbodiesel engine
produced by FIAT and GM as International Engine of the Year 2005
in the 1.0-1.4-litre category. For more information [ click
here ]
Our test car was fitted with the standard 5-speed manual dash-mounted gearbox which we found offered smooth and precise gear changes. Positioning the gear lever in this position frees up floor space.
The Dualogic Semi Automatic Transmission is available as a £700 option and offers three driving modes: sequential, automatic or automatic with maximum fuel economy.
We were impressed with the Idea's fuel economy, which was not far from the manufacturers quoted figures of 55.4 mpg combined.
How It Drove - Ride/Handling
The FIAT Idea is classified as a mini-MPV and although its exterior dimensions are only marginally bigger than the average supermini it is taller and consequently has a higher centre of gravity therefore, it is not going to handle like a sports car. The Idea is a passenger carrier and the suspension is set up to offer a good soft ride consequently body roll is noticeable but the Idea never felt unstable on the road.
The first thing that you will notice when driving the Idea is its high driving position which gives you an excellent view of the road ahead. This is also beneficial for passengers as it makes for a more interesting journey. The Idea employs the proven combination of independent MacPherson strut front suspension and a lightweight torsion beam axle at the rear and overall the ride is very good absorbing pot holes and speed humps well.
