Fiat Croma (2005 - 2007) 1.9 MultiJet Dynamic 5d (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I'm brave enough to be different and that I don't mind losing thousands when I come to sell it!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They love it! Everyone says 'a Fiat what?' I just love the individuality. It's basically a Saab 9-3 but prettier.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Despite the tragic build quality and questionable reliabilty - I would. Good value for money is the key - I've subsequently seen unregistered examples like mine for less than 10k

What are you likely to buy next?

A Fiat Panda for my wife - I'm a real convert to the brand.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£9,450

When did you buy the car?

January 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

The car was a dealer demonstrator but was used as the parts managers company car so it was well looked after and specced up. Bought it when it was 9 months old and with 6000 miles on the clock. At £16750 new it had lost nearly £1000 a month in depreciation. Ouch!

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Price primarily but different and good looking. Didn't want a Vectra or Mondeo but needed the space.

What was the dealer like?

The dealer was fantastic. It was a franchised main Fiat dealer and they knew their stuff -family run and it felt likeit.

What's it like to drive?

Great to drive especially on the motorway, feels bigger than it is when round town. The best bit is the looks you get from people trying to work out what it is!

What's it like to park?

Good all round visibility and a light clutch makes it a doddle.

Have you had any problems with the car?

How long have you got?!? I expected some issues as it's a big Fiat but this is what I got in the first month of ownership: 2 misted rear light clusters, boot catch stopped working, 2 recalls, central hub popped out of the rear alloy wheels when doors were closed, washer jet failure, internal trim came off, central armrest catch fell off, chronic fuel economy, rear electric window failure and total alarm/security system stopped working. Apart from that it's been totally reliable!

What's most practical about your car?

Really like the 'puddle' lights built into the bottom of the 2 front doors. The Saab-esque key in the central console is also really handy as is the power point in the rear. Rear passengers also get their own air vents.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The outstanding standard fit Blaupunkt audio system.