Fiat Idea 1.3 Multijet Active 5d (2004/04) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
Bargain and much better than a Vauxhall Meriva. Bodywork feels more solid, especially the doors which is very important with a family - we wanted the cheapest safe mini MPV we could get. We bought this as an ex-demo with 4K miles on the clock for £8,000.
Costs
It's averaging 53 mpg. Cheap tax and insurance. Cheap to get serviced. Doesn't seem to want to eat its tyres too quickly.
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On the road
Driving
Nice and comfy. Can see over other cars roofs on motorway. Goes round corners quicker than you'd think for a mini-MPV. Excellent visibility with big windows and high seating position, but has big A pillars, so you may need to lean forward occasionally.
Performance
Surprising and a 100% improvement with 10,000 miles on the engine. Doesn't lose speed on the motorway uphill, even with stuff in the boot. Loads of torque. Want harsh acceleration? Then buy a sports car.
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Living with it
Reliability
The glove box lid rattled a bit so I bought a sticky felt pad and put it under the lid. Doesn't rattle any more.
Image
Not a common sight. And I don't care anyway - it's perfect for a small family. Easy to park, easy to drive, easy to get the kids in and out of the back and still has enough room for lots of luggage.
Comfort
Very relaxing. Nice driving position. Suspension soaks up most bumps, but is firm enough to minimise body pitch and roll. Excellent ride & handling compromise if you've got car sick kids. They can look over hedges too to stop them getting bored!
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Security and Service
Security
No idea! It has central locking from a key fob and an immobiliser. If there's not a big market for second hand spares I don't think professional thieves would want to pinch it anyway.
Service
I've got a choice of 3 main dealers near me. The first one we tried was a bit lethargic, so next service we'll go to one of the others.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Other
Glove box lid rattled a bit on bumpy roads. Fixed it with a sticky felt pad.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes