Fiat Stilo is a steal

Dec 8 2008 Peter Hayward

FIAT'S Stilo replaced the Bravo and Brava with one name, but at first, two distinct body styles.

The three door is lower and more sporting, while the five door offers better rear head and legroom and, obviously, easier access.

I've driven most of them at different times and the 1.2 at the bottom of the range is not up to pulling the weight.

Next comes a 1.4 which is fair, then a 1.6 which is lovely to live with, a 1.8 and a 2.4 with no less than 170bhp.

Two JTD diesels - both 1.9-litre - with either 80 or 115bhp, complete the engine line up and these are great.

The Multiwagon estate version arrived later and is good looking, spacious and very versatile.

Performance is good in 1.6 upwards and the ride is comfortable over most surfaces.

Handling and road holding are excellent, with very little roll, well weighted power steering, good grip and a positive, safe feel.

Interior

The seats are well shaped and comfortable and the driving position has plenty of adjustment.

Interior space is good in five door and estate, but the boot in the hatches is on the small side.

Safety is very good, with front, side and roof airbags, anti-lock brakes and an electronic stability control system.

FAST FACTS

Fiat Stilo 3dr

Price : Pay about £2,000 for an '03 03-reg Active, £3,000 for an '05 05-reg 1.4 Active or £4,700 for an '06 06-reg 1.8 Sporting. An '06 56-reg Mjet diesel Dynamic will be about £5,500.

Mechanical : 115bhp, 1,910cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox

Max speed : 119mph

0-62mph : 10 secs

Combined mpg : 53

Insurance group : 5

Marks : 8/10

Main rival : Ford Focus