Fiat Idea 1.3 Multijet Active

The Fiat Idea Multijet is fundamentally a practical vehicle of the "mini MPV" class. A willing workhorse with only a few frills. If you're looking for something to show off in, this is not the car for you.

I never liked Fiat's but the Fiat Idea multijet was standing there on dealer's parking and I just took it. Very satisfied choice.

Just purchased second Fiat Idea, a 2007 1.3 Dynamic multijet diesel with delivery miles. Had a 1.4 Active previously. Before purchasing second Idea had a little look at the Meriva, but was not very impressed. I must say the Meriva looks prettier, but the interior of the Idea is more spacious and airey. I don't really understand why people did not take to the Idea. It is a nice car to drive, its practical (especially if you have a couple of kids) and reliable.

Try imagining the Idea as being a bigged up Punto, and your halfway there. Essentially the same platform, the idea is considerably higher than the punto, and offers superb interior space using upright seating positions.

While the rear seats cannot be removed entirely, they do have a highly flexible arrangement pattern, and I've never needed extra space.

The little 1.3 turbo diesel engine is gutsy enough in the lower rev band to make it nippy in town, and motorway crusing is relaxed. But this isn't a speed merchant, the offset being superb fuel economy. On a recent working expedition, from Manchester to Harrogate (uphill most of the way,) it still averaged 55mpg+ at 70mph over the round trip.

The cabin is light and airy, and the driving position brilliant for those of us with tall backs. I highly recommend it in fact for people like me. We easily get five in, on long trips and nobody has leg problems or lack of space.

All in all, the Fiat Idea has been the best car I've purchased in a long while. It's not brilliant in any one area, but the overall package is great. Plus, by being rude and turning up on the last two days of the month, I managed to beat Fiat down from a list price of £11k, (at the time,) to £9,500 with 2% APR .... plus mats.... plus a tank of diesal (you've seen the show).

Don't get a Punto. Get an Idea.... The thinking mans A-Class. After all wouldn't you rather have the money in YOUR pocket?