2002 Fiat Multipla EX 1.6
Summary:
Great car if you can forgive its little faults
Faults:
Fuel pump leaked on the day I picked the car from the dealer; replaced a week later.
Oil pressure switch leaked at 60,000; replaced.
Battery replaced at 45,000 kms (1 year old then).
Some jerking a day after going through a local thunderstorm, suspect.. water seeping through front of bonnet and onto the spark plug area at high speed. Problem goes away within a day.
Hot Malaysian sun melts certain plastics on the fascia, and hazard switch doesn't like greasy fingers.. melts the plastic/rubbery coating as well. Trim looks neat but could be more robust.
General Comments:
Bought one of the last 'new' Multipla's in 2009 (old face 2002 model), which was still in the dealer's warehouse. Got a good discount and had replaced tyres, timing belt, wipers and some internal trim and plastics before the car was delivered to me. After 7 years in storage, I took a gamble on a 'new' car that had always caught my attention.
After 95,000kms in just under 2 years, I must say that it's worth every cent I have paid! Reliable, handles very well for a 6 seater MPV. My 4 kids love being in this car.
Capable of hitting 180km/h on the straight stretches, but it is the most stable/ most comfortable MPV I have ever driven (comparable to my old 2.0 ZX).
Could have improved brakes though. On the average takes 9.5 liters for every 100kms.
I also have a Berlingo. In town and under 80 km/h, the Berlingo seems a better car to drive, but above 80 and outside town, the Fiat is KING.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 31st January, 2011