A family-friendly Fiat
FIAT is to introduce a more stylish version of its Tipo range, aimed at the dwindling number of families who prefer a conventional hatchback or estate car in preference to the myriad crossovers and SUVs.
Traditional saloon and estate models gave way to hatchbacks initially, and now they too are losing favour as the market for crossovers in all shapes and sizes explodes.
It is predicted that conventional cars will soon be virtually obsolete in America, and that we will follow suit in due course.
In the meantime, however, there remains a sizeable demand for family cars that are spacious, practical and reasonably priced.
Fiat is hoping to cash in on this healthy sector of the market with the latest version of its Tipo, which is due here at the end of this month.
Called the Tipo S-Design, it aims to emulate arch rival Citroen’s stylish DS range, with a more eye-catching appearance and loads of extra kit. This new version gains a distinctive wide grille with glossy black trim, which continues around the edges of the fog lights and on the mirror caps. It also encases the BiXenon headlights, which finally make their first appearance in the Tipo range.
New diamond cut 18in alloy wheels, tinted rear windows and body-coloured handles complete the look, with a choice of five colours including an exclusive new grey.
The interior is completely restyled with new Techno leather and fabric seats. Double stitching on the Techno leather and Airtex seats is replicated on the gear knob and steering wheel, while glossy black accents highlight the dashboard and Tecnico Grey fascia, which spans the entire width of the passenger compartment.
The Fiat Tipo S-Design gains sophisticated technology, including the latest Uconnect seven-inch HD LIVE infotainment system.
This is fitted with a high-resolution 7in touchscreen, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to enable users to access their phone’s functionality while in the car. Apple CarPlay integrates an iPhone with the display and controls of the car to make calls, play music, send and receive text messages, and to get directions optimised for prevailing traffic conditions.
Power for the vehicle comes from a 1.4-litre 120bhp petrol engine combined with manual transmission.
It produces 139g/km of CO2 while returning 45mpg economy with acceleration to 60mph in 9.6 seconds.
The order book is open from today, with prices of £18,145 for the hatchback and £19,145 for the Station Wagon estate version.