ROAD TEST
Fiat Bravo Eco 1.6 Multijet 105 – Test Drive
Italian maker Fiat has launched one of its greenest cars – it's the Fiat Bravo Eco.
It may not have a 'funky green badge' on the boot but this car is as eco-friendly as any green machine that has been introduced in recent times. With the pressure on makers to make more green cars can Fiat produce a 'green giant?'
LOOKS
The Bravo Eco looks the same as any other Bravo in the range. When the bravo was introduced it replaced the Stilo. Whereas the Stilo had quite a boxy look the Bravo is curvier. Not only does this car have much more of a sporty look with its sexier lines, it also has a more grown-up design.
INTERIOR
On the inside, the eco variant of the Bravo has the same layout of switchgear. The plastics are quite bland but are soft to touch and feel of decent quality. The car is driver friendly as the dash is laid out well and the switches are within easy reach. The Fiat's interior is not up to the standard of some of its rivals but it is definitely on the up.
PRACTICALITY
Again, the Eco is the same size as the 'standard' Bravo. There is quite a bit of space in the rear of the car and two adults will fit on the back seat with ease. The driver will be happy as there is good driving position and all-round visibility is a boon as the B-pillar is quite thin.
ON TEST
Our test route combined challenging roads with wintry conditions and the Bravo Eco performed well. The chassis had a balanced feel making the car's handling a boon when 'driving on'. However the steering was very light – we found it over assisted, it's accurate but felt vague lowering our confidence somewhat when driving enthusiastically. Conditions were atrocious and the roads were saturated in water but the low and thin rolling resistance tyres gave a surprising amount of grip in wet conditions.
Our test car was powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine, and it had an output of 105bhp and 290Nm of torque from 2,000rpm. This meant passing slower traffic was child's play. The Bravo Eco can get from zero to 62mph in a time of 11.3 seconds and it has a top speed of 116mph. The power plant was linked to a smooth shifting six-speed gearbox.
AT A GLANCE
| Name/Price: | Fiat Bravo Eco 1.6 Multijet 105/From £14,150 |
| Engine/power: | 1.6-litre /105BHP |
| Co2 emissions: | 119g/km |
| Official Combined fuel economy: | 62.8mpg |
IMN VERDICT
Green is certainly a fashionable word and Fiat has proved that they can make one it s biggest selling cars a true 'Green Giant'. With a claimed combined fuel economy of 62.8mpg and emitting 119g/km, this is a car to be reckoned with.
Simon McBride