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The times when you could buy a properly equipped compactCombo got are long gone. Not with Fiat.
For many price-conscious new car buyers, Dacia is the first choice. It is also worth taking a look at the Fiat Tipo, which, especially as a station wagon, combines good space with a pleasant design and fair prices.
inconspicuous
When the compact model, originally built for Turkey, came to Germany in 2016, it was hard to tell that it was driving in the lowest price segment. Half a decade later, the sedan and station wagon no longer look brand new, but the recent lifting with the current Fiat logo and new headlights did them good, especially when viewed from the front. Nevertheless, the 4,57 meter long station wagon remains by far the most inconspicuous car in the Fiat model range. Those who expect a little more charm can now at least choose the new “Cross” variant in off-road styling.
Inside, too, the Tipo is rather sober. An attached touchscreen in the center console brings some contemporary flair to the cockpit, otherwise there is a classic layout with large switches and rotary controls for driving and comfort functions. Many a modernization-plagued car buyer may even enjoy it. The best part of the compact Fiat station wagon starts further back: the very spacious loading compartment with a capacity of up to 1.650 liters.
Thanks to a low loading sill, it is comparatively easy to lift the purchases, and the adjustable loading floor helps when things get a bit bulky. There are no extras such as an electric flap, kick opener or remote control for the rear seat backrests, but two side trunk lights ensure a good view in the dark. So no frills, but a well-made standard. Points are only deducted for the low standing height under the flap.
Power looks different
Fiat now only offers three engines for the drive. The two diesels are comparatively expensive (from 22.500 euros) and at most something for frequent drivers, the around 2.000 euros cheaper 1,0-liter three-cylinder petrol engine with 74 kW100 hp should be sufficient for most other tasks without having to come up with particularly demanding driving performance. Especially during the intermediate sprint out of town, he quickly runs out of air, so it can be a bit of a run-up to overtake. Even if you want to swim with it, you have to keep the small turbo engine happy by changing the five forward gears. That drives up consumption, but an average of 6,5 liters is still okay despite the poor performance.
The Fiat itself does the driving in keeping with its calm character. The suspension may seem a bit stiff-legged on bad roads, but good straight-line stability and relaxed serenity are convincing on highways and country roads. Driving fun, however, was further back in the specifications; the steering looks a bit synthetic and the willingness to take turns is generally not very pronounced.
Good starting price
That shouldn't bother the targeted group of customers any further. Especially not when looking at the price tag: The gasoline engine starts as a “City Life” version at 20.500 euros and comes with acceptable equipment. Radio and air conditioning are also on board, as are digital instruments and a touchscreen. Anyone who invests 2.000 euros extra ("Life") also receives the roof rails, parking sensors and cruise control. In addition, the air conditioning system will be replaced by an automatic system. The last upgrade to “City Sport” then adds 1.600-inch rims and LED lights for 18 euros. For less than 25.000 euros you can then buy an almost fully equipped compact station wagon. With the VW Golf Variant, the price list even begins at this level.
The cost is then the strongest argument in favor of choosing the Fiat. Its advantage: there are not many counter-arguments, apart from the few impressive driving performances. Those who price this in, drive well with the Tipo Kombi. Also because Dacia no longer offers its direct competitor Logan LCV in Germany.
Technical data
Five-seater station wagon in the compact class, length: 4,57 meters, width: 1,79 meters (width with exterior mirrors: n / a), height: 1,51 meters, wheelbase: 2,64 meters, trunk volume: 550 - 1.650 liters, Trailer load: 1.500 kilograms
1,0-liter three-cylinder petrol engine with turbocharging, 74 kW / 100 PS, maximum torque: 190 Nm at 1.500 rpm, five-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive, 0-100 km / h: 11,8 s, Vmax: 198 km / h, standard consumption: 5,4 l, CO2 emissions: 124 g / km, efficiency class: B, emissions standard: Euro 6d, test consumption: 6,5 l / 100 km, prices: from 20.490 euros
In brief
Why: cheap price, good space
Why not: moderate performance, callous steering
What else: Ford Focus Tournament, Kia Ceed Sportswagon, Renault Mégane Grandtour
