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Stilo Multi Wagon 1.6 Active A/C

FIAT'S Stilo didn't set our pulses racing when it was launched last year, but with the arrival of the Multi Wagon, the firm hopes its Ford Focus challenger will be more appealing. It's been billed as a car-like alternative to compact MPVs such as the Renault Scenic and Citroen Pic-asso, but does it fill the brief?

By John Kendall

February 2003

FIAT'S Stilo didn't set our pulses racing when it was launched last year, but with the arrival of the Multi Wagon, the firm hopes its Ford Focus challenger will be more appealing. It's been billed as a car-like alternative to compact MPVs such as the Renault Scenic and Citroen Picasso, but does it fill the brief?

The newcomer stands 40mm taller than the hatchback, while sliding, reclining rear seats and a drop-down picnic table are on the extras list. These increase practicality, for sure, but the cabin still feels cramped.

The Multi Wagon gets a slimmed-down range of the hatch's trims - Active, Active Air Conditioning or Dynamic - while the engines include 103bhp 1.6-litre and 133bhp 1.8 petrols, plus 80bhp and 115bhp versions of Fiat's 1.9 JTD common-rail diesel. We drove a car with the sweet-sounding smaller unleaded unit, which - if you use the revs - delivers usable performance. While the Multi Wagon's ride quality may not be up to Peugeot 307 SW standards, it's firm and supple enough to combat travel sickness and deal with most surfaces. But too much road noise is heard in the process, and the vague power-steering reduces handling precision. Prices range from ΂£12,095 for the 80bhp JTD Active to ΂£14,395 for the 115bhp JTD Dynamic.

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FIRST OPINION

    Although Fiat's Stilo Multi Wagon may not set new class standards, it still delivers what most families need - comfort, space and a choice of features at a competitive price. What's more, the 1.6-litre petrol engine complements the chassis well.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Stilo Multi Wagon on sale now
    Sprints from 0-60mph in 11.4 secs; top speed of 114mph
    Tailgate window can be opened independently of the rear hatch
     
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