Fiat Bravo 1.6 MultiJet 105 Active Eco 5dr Car Review - February 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £17,200
Tax Band: C
Insurance Group: 14
MPG: 64.2
CO2: 115
0-62 Mph: 11.3 secs
BHP: 105 BHP
Range: 819 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3/5
Whilst the Fiat Bravo 1.6 MultiJet 105 Active Eco 5dr is a very capable medium family car, offering attractive economy figures and low running costs, the initial price is too steep with petrol variants and rival models offering better value for money.

PROS:  With impressive fuel economy figures and low carbon emissions, running costs are low for this powerful and high performance diesel family car.

CONS:  A relatively high purchase price means customers may be left disappointed. The basic trim level also compromises on certain features and doesn’t offer the same level of tech as rival models.

Behind the Wheel

The 1.6 diesel engine offers a sufficient power output of 105bhp at 4000 rpm with torque figures of 214 lb-ft at 1500 rpm. This gives the car a top speed of 116 mph and allows it to accelerate from 0-62mph in 11.3 seconds. Hardly blistering performance, but highly respectable for a mid-sized family hatchback.

The one crowning achievement of the 1.6 Bravo is the quietness of the ride, with external noise all but eliminated. When cruising at a constant speed engine noise is hushed to a low hum and noise from the road and wind are barely audible.

Looks & Equipment

As the basic trim level for the Bravo, the 1.6 Active Eco lacks some of the features which come as standard on other models. Despite this, in-car technology is sufficient for most needs and, as a family car, there is plenty to keep Bravo owners happy.

Standard features include electric door mirrors, electric front windows, air conditioning, power steering, an immobiliser and CD compatibility within the stereo system.

Alloy wheels will cost you £305, metallic paint costs £460, cruise control costs £155, rear parking sensors cost £255, and Bluetooth connectivity will set you back £255.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

Rear legroom is also restricted, meaning that passengers may experience discomfort on longer journeys. Headroom is good and the boot boasts a decent storage capacity of 365 litres with the seats up and 1,175 litres with the seats down. Unfortunately, the high lip on the boot means loading can be a struggle but the large capacity more than compensates for this minor inconvenience.

In terms of safety, the Bravo received a five star NCAP rating for safety with a number of great features offered as standard, even at this basic trim level. These include stability control, driver, passenger and front side airbags.

Unfortunately, reliability is not considered a strong point for the Bravo and it finished bottom of its class in 2011. The cheap feeling interior lacks the style and finesse of other models and many of the panels do not line up properly.

Value for Money

Overall, the Bravo 1.6 MultiJet is a mediocre car that offers decent performance levels but lacks the high-end tech or stylish design that other models offer. Fuel economy at 64.2mpg and low running costs could be tempting to buyers but a high purchase price of £17,200 means that this could offer a false economy.

Unfortunately, resale values are generally poor as depreciation is high with these models.

Whilst the car falls into a relative low insurance bracket (14) and benefits from low road tax under tax band C – thanks to its 115g/km carbon emissions, there are plenty of other family vehicles available which offer better performance levels, increased savings and more comfort.

Fiat Bravo 1.6 MultiJet 105 Active Eco 5dr Car Review - by 
All Fiat Bravo Reviews
Fiat Bravo 1.6 MultiJet 105 Active Eco 5dr - February 2012
Whilst the Fiat Bravo 1.6 MultiJet 105 Active Eco 5dr is a very capable medium family car, offering attractive economy figures and low running costs, the initial price is too steep with petrol vari...
Fiat Bravo 1.6 MultiJet 105 Dynamic Eco 5dr - March 2012
The Fiat Bravo 1.6 MultiJet 105 Dynamic Eco is by no means a bad car but it is thoroughly outclassed by its rivals. Unless you desperately need a bit of Italian flair in your life, buy a Focus or a...
Fiat Bravo 2.0 MultiJet 165 Sport 5dr - February 2012
With good levels of performance, fast acceleration and a high top speed, this is the perfect family car for the driver who doesn't want to sacrifice driving pleasure. However, this power is availab...
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Medium Family Alternatives

You might want to read reviews for other Medium Family cars that you can then compare to the Fiat Bravo. Here are some popular Fiat Bravo alternatives:

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