6-speed Manual (for certain diesel engines), Dualogic (Automated Manual Transmission - less common on early models)
Features
Drive:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated dry clutch
đ Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4337 mm
Width:
Approx. 1792 mm
Height:
Approx. 1497 mm
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2600 mm
Cargo
Boot Capacity:
Approx. 365 litres (expandable with rear seats folded)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine, approx. 1250-1350 kg
đĄïž Safety Features
Ratings
Euro Ncap Score:
5 Stars (for 2007 model)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (with EBD - Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Esp:
Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims/later models
Traction Control:
Often integrated with ESP
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), side airbags, curtain airbags (dependent on trim)
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts with load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX mounting points
đĄ Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
Factory fitted radio/CD player with MP3 support; optional 'Blue & Me' system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
Display:
Multi-function display in the instrument cluster providing trip computer, service information, and media details.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Via optional 'Blue & Me' system for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Port:
Included with 'Blue & Me' system for media playback.
đ§ Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Petrol:
15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (some diesel variants might have slightly longer intervals)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Check manual for specific engine; typically 100,000-120,000 km or 5-7 years for petrol engines. Diesel engines often use timing chains or have specific replacement intervals.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Petrol:
API SN/SP, ACEA A3/B4, SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact specification per engine)
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CJ-4/CK-4, ACEA C3, SAE 5W-30 (e.g., Selenia WR Forward or equivalent)
Coolant:
Paraflu Up or equivalent (blue, ethylene-glycol based, long-life coolant)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90
Known Issues
Diesel Particulate Filter:
Potential DPF regeneration issues or clogging on early Multijet models if not driven appropriately for regeneration cycles.
Suspension Components:
Wear on front suspension bushings and drop links due to road conditions.
Electrical Gremlins:
Minor electrical issues can occur with age, particularly related to window regulators or central locking actuators.
Clutch Wear:
Dual-mass flywheel and clutch wear on higher-mileage diesel models.
đ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand:
Fiat Automobiles S.p.A. - Italian manufacturer with a long history in passenger car production.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
Fiat Bravo/Brava (182 platform)
Generation:
Second Generation (Type 198)
Introduction Year:
2007
Production
Production Years:
2007-2014
Manufacturing Location:
Italy (e.g., Cassino Plant)
đ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Euro Ncap:
Awarded a 5-star safety rating by Euro NCAP, demonstrating strong crash protection.
Italian Design:
Generally well-received for its modern and appealing Italian design aesthetic.