Fiat Idea Review
Published: 3rd February 2005
FIAT Idea 1.3 Multijet 16v Active
We were disappointed that the Active model we were driving did not feature side airbags, curtain airbags or (ESP) Electronic Stability Programme as standard, especially bearing in mind the target family audience. ESP with Traction Control, is an option across the entire range at a cost of £400. Side and window airbags are available for an additional £400 on the Active & Dynamic models but are standard on the range topping Eleganza. We know that FIAT have to market cars at price points, but we do not like to see safety equipment being offered as an option, it should be standard.
Worryingly we can see families arguing over whether to go for the airbags or the 10 disc CD changer and subwoofer.
Comfort and Refinement
The FIAT Idea's cabin is spacious accommodating up to five people with excellent head, leg and shoulder room in both the front and rear. We found the seats comfortable and supportive - the drivers seat is height adjustable and the steering wheel is adjustable for reach and rake enabling you to find the 'ideal' driving position.
We weren't too pleased to discover that the Active model we were testing did not have air conditioning as standard. According to FIAT there is 3.6 square meters of glass surrounding you and it certainly heats up the cabin, we were considering using it as greenhouse. We would strongly recommend that you opt for a model that features air conditioning which is a £500 option on the Active model, but standard on all other models.
We were surprised to find follow me home lights on this specification car, which activates the headlights for a set time, illuminating your path to your front door at night.
Front electric windows are standard but the Active model has manual rear windows - which we found a little basic on a vehicle that costs £10,895 OTR.
How It Looks - Exterior
The FIAT Idea was styled by Italdesign, (Fabrizio Giugiaro) with an interior by FIAT Centro Stile. The new Idea is a bold and stylish vehicle which comprises of smooth aerodynamic lines with broad muscular shoulders and generous wheel arches.
We like the looks, the Idea is rather cute. It shares the Fiat chrome highlighted front grille corporate nose.
