Car Test
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R0315 | |
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February 2003 |
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| First Drive | Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon | |
| Printer Friendly Page | Featured model: 1.8 Dynamic | |
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This new Multi Wagon completes the Stilo range, which was introduced here last spring. As its name suggests, Fiat intends the newcomer to be viewed as more than just an estate car, claiming that it also combines the flexibility and versatility of an MPV.
It’s hard to see quite how, since the only concession to its people-carrier status is the fact that it’s 4cm taller than the five-door Stilo, with higher seating as a result. The seats themselves (just five of them) are firmly bolted to the floor. Anyway, semantics aside, the Multi Wagon is difficult to criticise in its role as a commodious cargo carrier, with a smartly trimmed load space roomy enough to challenge those of arch rivals Focus, Golf, Astra et al. And with no side intrusions, it’s such a sensible cubic shape, too. It claims to have the lowest load deck in this class, thanks to inclined rear dampers, and also boasts a plastic-topped bumper than acts as a handy flat sill. Loading is via a high-lifting tailgate or through an optional opening tailgate window, and there’s a ski flap for long things. Even longer items can stretch from tailgate to facia if the front passenger’s seat folding backrest is specified. The roller blind pulls out and locates easily, and four lashing eyes, a shopping bag hook and a 12v power socket are provided. Folding the 60/40 split back seats almost doubles the load length. However, you can opt for sliding back seats; the ‘boot’ can then be extended by as much as a generous 16cm, but you obviously lose rear kneeroom in the process. The main snag with this facility is that only the backrests tip forward, so you end up with a substantial step in the load deck. From the centre of the car forward, you’re in standard Stilo territory. There are plenty of seat and steering wheel adjustments, but the way that only the cushion raises and lowers won’t suit all drivers. The soft-feel facia, and especially the centre console, are busy with buttons, but all the controls are within easy reach. All round vision is first class. Four engines (two petrol, two diesel) are offered – we drove the 1.8 petrol. This twin-cam, 16-valver’s 133bhp makes it a lively, gutsy performer, helped along by an excellent gearchange. It’s a pity that it becomes so vocal when you work it hard, but main road cruising is a good deal more relaxed; the same can be said of the ride, yet even on poorer surfaces the suspension copes reasonably well. The Multi Wagon corners competently, too, although it lacks the Focus’s deft steering and responsive handling. We like the two levels of power assistance, though – the City mode is a boon when parking and is a great asset, in general, to the less muscular. Knee and legroom in the back are excellent; indeed, there’s a lot of room all round, with plenty of window space, as well. It’s a really congenial and comfortable back seat for two (not so good in the centre), especially if you opt for the sliding/reclining seat. |
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