The new Tipo is a much-needed change of approach from the Italian car makers

By Gerry Murphy

For some the FIAT badge conjures up negative thoughts. They know it and we know it, but are things about to change for the beleaguered brand? A change of approach was needed and in fairness to the Italian car makers, they are about to show us that they mean business.

In Turin last week – the home of one of Italy’s biggest manufacturers – we were introduced to the new Fiat Tipo, the first new car that Fiat has built for the compact family car segment that they claim will rescue some positives from their iffy past.

Being in Turin and observing the huge number of Fiat cars on the street, it is clear that the locals love their national brand. It seems like every second car is a Fiat and that includes cars that have a few years behind them. The many variations of 500 range and others like the Punto, Brava and Bravo are all over the place. You will also see hundreds of Panda’s – my favourite Fiat car – in every town and village throughout the north of the country too.

As for this new Tipo there will be three derivatives; a five-door hatchback, a three-box, four-door saloon and a Sp[orts Wagon. All will be available in Ireland in September with the major selling point being the price. Prices will start at €19,995 and will be in direct competition with other budget brands.

Mind, it was a bit deflating to see that this car will start in Spain for just €10,990, a stark message, if we need it that we are still paying way over the odds for our car in this country thanks to crippling tax regime.

As well as the 1.4 petrol, Fiat is offering a 1.3 Multijet diesel – likely to be the top seller here – and a 1.6 diesel.

All will be available in three trim packages. The Pop trim has six airbags, ESC, Hill Holder and tyre pressure monitoring. Manual air conditioning, electric front windows, electrically adjustable door mirrors with defrosting function and the 60/40 split rear seat is part of the package. Also standard is the Uconnect 3.5″ infotainment system with radio, MP3 player and AUX and USB inputs.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.