InsightGirl
  • Latest News
  • Cars
  • Article
  • Buying Guide
  • Reviews
    • Tractor Review
Sign In
  • What's Hot
  • Article
  • Latest News
  • BYD
  • Tractor Review
  • Reviews
InsightGirl
Sign In
  • Toyota
  • Chevrolet
  • Hyundai
  • KIA
  • Mercedes
Search
  • Latest News
  • Cars
  • Article
  • Buying Guide
  • Reviews
    • Tractor Review

Top Stories

2025 Chevy Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity: Power Meets Versatility

Article
maio 3, 2025

The Rina by Automobili Mignatta: Italy’s Striking New Answer to Purist Performance

Latest News
maio 13, 2025

2025 Toyota Sienna Towing Capacity: Practical Power for Everyday Adventures

Article
maio 3, 2025
Have an existing account? Sign In
Follow US
Copyright © InsightGirl. All Rights Reserved.
InsightGirl > Blog > Reviews > Fiat Multipla Review, Specs, Price and More
Reviews

Fiat Multipla Review, Specs, Price and More

Gigi
Last updated: maio 30, 2025 6:14 am
By Gigi
Share
18 Min Read
List of Images 1/6
1-3-882
1-3-888
1-3-892
1-3-859
1-3-900
1-3-860

InsightGirl Verdict

6.5

The Fiat Multipla may look like an alien spacecraft, but underneath its eccentric design lies a practical, surprisingly versatile MPV with one of the most functional interiors ever put in a family car.

Pros

  • + Genuinely innovative 3+3 seating layout
  • + Loads of interior space for passengers and cargo
  • + Excellent visibility and upright driving position
  • + Surprisingly good to drive for an MPV
  • + Easy maintenance and cheap parts
  • + Strong fuel economy for its size
  • + Cult classic status and growing retro appeal

Cons

  • – Infamous exterior styling puts many people off
  • – Interior plastics feel cheap and scratchy
  • – Noisy cabin at higher speeds
  • – Lacks modern safety equipment
  • – Some early diesel versions prone to electrical gremlins

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.

Contents
InsightGirl VerdictProsConsA Quick OverviewExterior Styling – Love It or Hate ItInterior and Practicality – Surprisingly BrilliantDriving Experience – Not Built for Thrills, But CapableFuel Economy and Running CostsReliability – A Mixed BagInfotainment and Features – Basic, but FunctionalSafety – Solid Showing for Its TimeQuirks and Oddities – The Multipla WayFinal Verdict – A Car That Dares to Be DifferentFiat Multipla ScorecardSpecifications & PricesGeneral InformationPower and PerformanceTransmission and DrivetrainInterior and CapacityDimensions and WeightNotable FeaturesVariantsAvailable Paint ColoursPrices

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.

- Advertisement -

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.

- Advertisement -

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.

- Advertisement -

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.

- Advertisement -

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:

- Advertisement -
  • 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:

- Advertisement -
  • 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.

- Advertisement -

Fiat Multipla Scorecard

CategoryScore (out of 10)
Styling4
Interior Practicality10
Driving Experience6
Fuel Economy7
Reliability5
Value for Money8
Comfort7
Features & Tech4
Safety6
Overall Character9

Specifications & Prices

General Information

ManufacturerFiat
Model NameMultipla
Vehicle TypeCompact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)
Body Style5-door hatchback/MPV
Production Years1998–2010
Manufacturing LocationTurin, Italy
Original Price (2004)~$18,000 USD

Power and Performance

Engine Options1.6L petrol, 1.9L JTD diesel, 1.9L Multijet diesel
Horsepower103–120 hp (77–89 kW)
Torque145–206 Nm (107–152 lb-ft)
Top Speed165–180 km/h (102–112 mph)
0–100 km/h (0–62 mph)12.6–14.5 seconds
Fuel TypePetrol or Diesel
Fuel Consumption5.7–8.6 L/100km (27–41 mpg)

Transmission and Drivetrain

Transmission5-speed manual or 6-speed manual
Drive TypeFront-wheel drive (FWD)
ClutchHydraulic single-plate dry clutch

Interior and Capacity

Seating Configuration6 seats (3 front, 3 rear)
Boot Space430–1,900 litres depending on seat layout
Interior FeaturesAir conditioning, folding seats, optional CD player

Dimensions and Weight

Length3,990 mm (157 in)
Width1,875 mm (74 in)
Height1,690 mm (67 in)
Wheelbase2,665 mm (105 in)
Curb Weight1,250–1,380 kg (2,755–3,042 lbs)
Ground Clearance140 mm (5.5 in)

Notable Features

Dashboard-mounted gear shifterYes
Modular seatingFully removable rear seats
InfotainmentBasic radio/CD, optional navigation on later models
SafetyABS, airbags, optional stability control

Variants

Multipla BipowerPetrol/CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) hybrid
Multipla JTDDiesel-powered version
Facelift (2004+)Softer, more conventional styling

Available Paint Colours

Silver, Red, Blue, Beige, Green, Yellow, Black, White

Prices

Used Price (Average, Good Condition)
United States (USD)$2,500–$5,500
European Union (EUR)€2,000–€4,800
United Kingdom (GBP)£1,800–£4,200
TAGGED:FiatFiat Multipla

Sign Up For Daily Newsletter

Be keep up! Get the latest breaking news delivered straight to your inbox.

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.
Share This Article
LinkedIn Reddit Email Copy Link
ByGigi
Follow:
I am that girl bringing features, specs, and updates about your favorite cars because I love cars.
Leave a Comment
0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Login
Notify of
guest
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
- Advertisement -

Top Stories

2026 Kia EV9 New Nightfall Edition Gets Improved Range, and a GT Powerhouse
Latest News
maio 28, 2025
Honda Rebel 500 Pricing, Top Speed, MPG and More
Article
maio 19, 2025
Kia Carens is that Spacious, Smart, and Sensibly Priced Car We have been Longing For
Article
maio 17, 2025
Fiat Panda Review, Specs, Interior Price and More
Reviews
maio 30, 2025
Fiat Multipla Review, Specs, Price and More
Reviews
maio 30, 2025

Related Strories

Reviews

Razor Crazy Cart Review: Pure Drift-Fueled Fun on Wheels

By Gigi
maio 14, 2025
InsightGirl

Here at InsightGirl, we believe in making the absolute best content for cars that intersect the best user experience and functionality.

Quicklinks

  • Toyota
  • Chevrolet
  • Hyundai
  • KIA
  • Mercedes

More

  • Submit a Post
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • About us
  • Contact

Follow Socials

2025 InsightGirl. All Right Reserved

wpDiscuz
Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?

Not a member? Sign Up