Fiat Idea Hatchback (2004-2007) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 4 out of 54.0

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 42 - 60 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

This is affordable motoring. Prices undercut those of the Vauxhall Meriva while residuals values are similar so you’ll lose a bit less on an Idea over time. Fuel economy is impressively good whether you pick the petrol or the diesel engines.

Idea is an environmentally friendly model. With an average of 145 g/km CO2 across the model line-up, its emissions are comparably low for a people carrier hatchback. However, it’s worth noting that the line up has a high number of diesel models, bringing the average down and giving buyers more choices of low-emission versions. Diesels typically produce less CO2 than petrol engines with similar power outputs.

Eco-conscious buyers should consider the 1.3-litre diesel, which is one of the greenest models in the range. The range is impressively frugal, averaging 49 mpg.

The Idea uses the same mechanicals as the Punto which has proven itself to be thoroughly reliable. If anything, the build quality appears to have improved over other small Fiats.