The Fiat Bravo

1:30pm Friday 11th July 2008

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THE small family hatch territory is where customers are spoilt for choice with just about every manufacturer from budget Far Eastern firms to prestige Germans making their mark and offering some good cars.

So to sell really well, a vehicle has to have outstanding credentials and Fiat’s classic Italian-styled Bravo can offer these in just about every department and at a price that undercuts many rivals.

Bravo sales, already very healthy since last year’s launch, should be boosted with the timely addition of two 1.6 litre multi-jet engines and an eco option to provide sporty, economical and clean motoring.

The new turbo-diesels increase the range to 17 versions with competitive prices from £10,995 to £16,355, and embracing five trim levels. All the cars come with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty which will give peace of mind to many buyers.

It was with the Bravo that Fiat marked its return to this second largest segment of the UK market which accounts for almost 600,000 cars per year or some 25% of the total.

And with fuel prices soaring to new heights, the car is proving popular with many families who are downsizing their transport and looking for lower running costs.

The 16-valve 1.6-litre multi-jet motor, available with a special eco package, is worth putting on your shortlist. It pushes out a healthy 105bhp and returns an excellent 62.8mpg on the combined cycle. The consumption is even better on a run at 74.3mpg or at a figure of 48.7mpg while dodging around town.

On the combined cycle this is a rise of 5mpg over the standard 105bhp 1.6-litre – not necessarily a huge improvement, but it will represent a significant saving over a period of time.

CO2 emissions are down to a low of 119g/km.

Besides revised engine ECU settings, the eco-pack employs special measures to optimise aerodynamics, has low rolling resistance tyres and taller gearing.

On the road, there is ample power readily available for speedy acceleration and quick, safe overtaking. As with all the Bravos, the ride is composed and the electric power steering, switchable from firm to light for easy manoeuvres, proves very communicative at just about all speeds.

It’s hard to find fault with the car. It is built to high standards, close to those of the VW Golf and Ford Focus, so that there is an impressive solid clunk when you close the doors. It can also boast the top Euro 5-star NCAP safety rating.

Being the widest car in its class, the cabin is spacious, though rear leg room is lacking. Boot room is good.

The eco version will undoubtedly add a new dimension to sporty yet economical motoring for both business and private users who are looking to save money in the long run.

Compared with the current 1.9 multi-jet 120bhp unit, the new 1.6 multi-jet series is notable for giving almost 25% more pulling power at 1,500rpm while fuel consumption is reduced by 8%.

The Bravo engine line-up also includes the 1.4-litre T-jet 150bhp turbocharged petrol engine which made its debut in the Bravo.

This responsive motor combines performance equal to or better than a conventionally-aspirated 1.8/2.0-litre petrol engine but with a reduction of between 10 and 20% in fuel consumption and emissions.

What also helps to sell the Bravo is the comprehensive equipment package which comes as standard even with the entry-level models. It includes ABS anti-lock braking, remote central locking, driver and passenger front and side airbags, electric front windows, a CD player, dual drive electric power steering and follow-me-home headlamps.

The package is further boosted by options such as dual-zone climate control, cruise control, rain, parking and tyre pressure sensors, a sky dome glass sunroof occupying almost the entire roof, a CD system with subwoofer that can play MP3 files, a Blue and Me mobile phone and MP3 player connectivity with steering wheel controls.