Essai, spécifications, prix et plus de la Fiat Multipla

When I first laid eyes on the Fiat Multipla, I had the same reaction most people do: What on earth is that? With its bug-eyed front lights and stubby proportions, it looked more like a science experiment than a family car. But after driving the Multipla for over two years, I can honestly say that it’s one of the most misunderstood cars ever made—and possibly one of the most practical.

This is not going to be a love letter to the Multipla. It has flaws—many, in fact—but if you’re after honesty, practicality, and a car that doesn’t follow the herd, read on.

A Quick Overview

The Fiat Multipla was first introduced in 1998 and ran until 2010. It was based on the Fiat Bravo/Brava platform, but featured an unconventional body that could only be described as… “unique.” It’s a compact MPV that offers six seats in two rows—a configuration that very few manufacturers even dared to try.

I drove the 2004 facelift model, which toned down the weirdness a bit, but still retained the character that made the Multipla such an oddball favourite.

Exterior Styling – Love It or Hate It

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the design. The pre-facelift Multipla (1998–2003) is often cited in “ugliest car” lists, thanks to its double-decker front fascia—headlights stacked above the bonnet line like frog’s eyes.

The facelifted version I owned (2004) ditched the stacked lights in favour of a more conventional look, but it still wasn’t what you’d call pretty. The tall body, short length, and wide stance make it look awkward from some angles.

That said, once you get used to it, there’s a certain charm to the Multipla. It doesn’t try to be sleek or sporty; it screams, “I’m here to carry people, not turn heads.”

Interior and Practicality – Surprisingly Brilliant

Now this is where the Multipla truly shines. The interior is, without question, one of the smartest layouts I’ve ever seen in a car of this size.

Six full-size seats arranged in two rows of three mean that even the middle passenger gets a proper chair—not a tiny perch like in most MPVs. And unlike 7-seaters where the last row is usually a cramped afterthought, the Multipla gives everyone room to breathe.

I’m 6’2” and could sit comfortably in any of the six seats. Legroom and headroom are excellent. The flat floor adds to the sense of space, and the visibility is outstanding thanks to the high driving position and expansive glasshouse.

Storage is plentiful: drawers under the seats, cupholders in odd places, a massive glovebox, and little compartments everywhere. It’s like driving a TARDIS. The boot space is also generous—even with all six seats in use, you still get 430 litres. Fold the rear seats, and it becomes a small van.

Driving Experience – Not Built for Thrills, But Capable

Let’s not pretend this is a driver’s car. The Multipla was never about performance or handling. However, it’s surprisingly good to drive—better than most would expect.

The wide track and low centre of gravity mean it handles corners more confidently than a tall MPV should. It’s still soft in the suspension department, but that helps soak up potholes and speed bumps.

My Multipla had the 1.9-litre JTD diesel engine, producing around 115bhp. It’s not fast—0–60mph takes about 12 seconds—but it pulls well in gear and cruises comfortably on the motorway. The five-speed manual gearbox feels solid, and gear ratios are well matched to the engine’s torque band.

In town, it’s easy to maneuver despite its width. Parking sensors are a godsend though—the thick rear pillars and high bootline can make reversing tricky.

Noise insulation isn’t great. Above 70 mph, wind and engine noise become noticeable, but it’s not unbearable. This is a family car, not a luxury cruiser.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs

The 1.9 JTD was remarkably efficient for its time. I averaged around 45–48 mpg in mixed driving, which is solid for a big-bodied MPV with a diesel engine.

Servicing costs were reasonable, and parts were surprisingly easy to source—even now. Fiat’s parts bin is extensive, and many components are shared with the Bravo, Brava, and even some Alfa Romeos of the era.

Insurance was also on the low side, making it a good option for families on a budget.

Reliability – A Mixed Bag

Here’s where things get a bit murky. Fiat has never had the best reputation for reliability, and the Multipla is no exception. Over my two years of ownership, I had:

• A failed EGR valve (£200 to replace)
• A sticking rear caliper
• A dodgy driver’s window motor
• Several warning lights that fixed themselves by turning the car off and on again

None of these were catastrophic, but they’re reminders that the Multipla was built to a price. If you’re mechanically inclined, or have a good independent mechanic, it’s manageable. But it’s not a car you can neglect.

Infotainment and Features – Basic, but Functional

The Multipla wasn’t packed with high-tech features, but it had everything most families needed in the early 2000s:

• Manual air conditioning (works fine)
• A CD player with six speakers (sound quality is average)
• Electric windows
• Heated mirrors
• Some models even had parking sensors and cruise control

That’s about it. There’s no touchscreen, Bluetooth, or navigation. But there are controls that make sense, buttons where you expect them, and a digital trip computer that shows range, fuel economy, and outside temperature.

Safety – Solid Showing for Its Time

The Multipla scored a respectable four stars in Euro NCAP tests back when it was launched. It had:

• ABS with EBD
• Driver and passenger airbags
• Side airbags on some models
• Height-adjustable seat belts
• ISOFIX child seat anchors

Structurally, it feels robust. The wide stance gives it stability, and you always feel safe inside, even when fully loaded.

Quirks and Oddities – The Multipla Way

What would a Multipla review be without a mention of the weird bits? Here are a few things I found odd but endearing:

• The handbrake is on the dashboard. Yep, it folds forward and clicks into place. Odd at first, but it frees up space between the front seats.
• The gear lever sprouts from the dashboard, similar to a van. Once you get used to it, it’s ergonomic and makes shifting a breeze.
• You sit extremely upright, almost like in a bus. It gives excellent visibility but takes some getting used to.
• People will stare. No matter how much you love your Multipla, others will have opinions—and they’ll share them.

Final Verdict – A Car That Dares to Be Different

The Fiat Multipla is not for everyone. If you want sleek looks, high-speed thrills, or modern technology, look elsewhere. But if you value clever design, unmatched practicality, and a bit of automotive soul, the Multipla delivers.

It’s a car that puts function before form—and in an age of lookalike crossovers and bloated SUVs, that’s refreshing. For families, hobbyists, or just lovers of the weird and wonderful, it’s a car that deserves a second look.

Fiat Multipla Scorecard

Specifications & Prices