6 seats for 6 characters on board: Heritage presents the FIAT Multipla 6x6

• To celebrate the 25^th anniversary of the Multipla, the Stellantis Heritage Department is making an exclusive one-off called the Fiat Multipla 6x6, which is to be placed on the market and destined to become a collector car.
• The new creation was designed by Roberto Giolito, the “father” of the 1998 model and current Head of Stellantis Heritage (Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Lancia, Abarth).
• The Heritage project is inspired by six characters drawn in the past by Giolito to amusingly and unconventionally depict life on board the revolutionary Fiat model.
• While the characters are depicted individually on the seats, they can be seen together on the hood and sides on the vehicle’s Bio Turquoise livery, which recalls open spaces and the sea.
• The vehicle’s upper part in blue is elegantly contrasted with the lower part in grey white, including the moldings, wheels, and bumpers.
• The Multipla was the first “3+3” seater in its segment and offered enough space for six passengers in two rows of three seats. It was so innovative that the MoMa in New York exhibited it as the “car of the future” during the “Different Roads” exhibition, and it was named “Car of the Year” by Top Gear magazine in the UK.
• At the following link you can watch a video in which Giolito recounts the genesis of the Multipla 6x6.
   

25 years have passed since the Fiat Multipla was first placed on the market, after its presentation at the International Motor Show Germany in the autumn of 1997, where it created a buzz and aroused the curiosity of both the general public and industry experts. To honor it, the Stellantis Heritage department is making an exclusive one-off called the Fiat Multipla 6x6, which is destined to become a collector car.
The designer of the new creation is Roberto Giolito—the “father” of the Multipla and Head of Stellantis Heritage (Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Lancia, Abarth). In this video (link), Giolito speaks about the original model’s strengths and the genesis of such a unique vehicle. The Heritage operation was inspired by six amusing characters drawn by Giolito in 1998 to amusingly and unconventionally depict life on board the vehicle.
The designer stated: “These six characters, these six ways of perceiving the car, have made a comeback on and in the first collector Multipla. It is a joyous tribute, in typical Fiat style, to a model which still attracts interest 25 years later and continues to hint at new ways of transporting and accommodating people. That’s why six amusing characters for six different ways of experiencing this vehicle have inspired the Multipla 6x6.”
Currently under production, the Multipla 6x6 will be on show from November 17^th to 19^th at the Milano Auto Classica show. Afterwards, it will be sold to a collector who is passionate about imaginative and unconventional Italian design. It is possible to receive information about it by writing to the following email, visiting the website (link), or contacting the Heritage team, which will be at the Auto e Moto d’Epoca show in Bologna from October 26- 29.
Let’s take a look at the history of the Multipla together, starting from the 6x6 project and its characters and moving on to its innovations. This model literally changed the way we drive and share travel experiences, becoming the first social-network vehicle—even before this word was in use. For instance, the first social network, SixDegrees, was inspired by the theory that everyone is connected to one another through six degrees of separation. This is the same number of characters “connected” to one another in the Multipla thanks to the sense of freedom the vehicle provides.
 

The Multipla 6x6 project: a journey through the imagination and exclusivity
Based on a model from 1998, the new Multipla 6x6 stands out for its unique Bio Turquoise livery—an emblematic color from those years, which recalls open spaces and the sea, and symbolizes the model’s “green” approach and low-emission engine. This color acts as a backdrop to the six characters on the vehicle’s hood and sides, while the moldings, wheels, and bumpers have been painted grey white—a neutral color which elegantly contrasts with the blue body. The same refinement can be found in the interiors where the dark blue fabric is paired with the grey white door panels. Meanwhile, each seat contains an image of one of the characters, who were drawn in 1998 to coincide with the model’s launch. In fact, each character has his or her own unique way of seeing and experiencing the model: from the adventurer to the baby, the driver, the woman who is attractive to the elegant man, the monk, and the young 1970s rebel. These drawings ended up on the model’s line of accessories, including on t-shirts and puzzles, and won over the public. Today, these caricatures are back on the Multipla 6x6—individually on the inside and all together on the exterior. At the steering wheel the explorer is ready to lead this merry band towards a new adventurer. Behind him, at the center of the first row, the child sits in his car seat and already dreams of driving and wearing a race helmet, while, next to him, the attractive woman is trying to put on makeup. The manager with his elegant suit and indispensable laptop, the monk concentrating on his spiritual readings, and the young hippie peacefully reclining can all be found in the back. Each one, in his or her own way, represents the freedom to express one’s own inclination in such a revolutionary vehicle.
 

A piece of design exhibited at the MoMa and still a cult classic for young Europeans
To take a closer look at the first generation, the Heritage team has made a second video (link) in which Roberto Giolito reveals secrets and anecdotes about the 1998 model.
On the one hand the Multipla stands out for its unmistakable and fun design, and on the other hand it is a concrete example of how ingenious solutions can truly improve the quality of life on board. Not by chance, its presentation in Great Britain took place inside the London Design Museum. Moreover, a Multipla model was exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York in 1999, the most important and famous art museum in the world, as an example of the “car of the future” for its innovative stylistic and technical solutions. Giolito stated: “Today, there are youth organizations which love this object. It was so unusual compared to the other segments precisely because it represented a convivial lifestyle, being social, and being together. And so, there are clubs today which are looking for them and restoring them to their original specifications. There is a real movement underway which finds Multipla in line with the times. Perhaps they understand it even better now than people did back then, as the vehicle was too forward-thinking and innovative to be accepted.”
 

Unconventional style and a space to be created
The Multipla debunks the stereotype which claims that the work of a designer consists in an exclusively aesthetic, stylistic exercise. In this case, the Centro Stile Fiat did not create the look for a product which was technically and functionally produced by someone else. It designed it with an extraordinary technical team and wanted to highlight the Multipla’s conceptual originality, providing it with an overall form which powerfully and clearly showed that this was a new type of automobile. This meant designing the Multipla’s body around the six passengers seated on two rows and their luggage and keeping comfort in mind. However, it was also necessary to make sure they could maintain normal social relations within the group and give them the chance to have intense relationships with the outside world, while maintaining the highest possible protection and safety. In essence, the approach had to place questions of functionality at the forefront, reconciling the passenger’s desires with the possibilities of technology. The overall form of the model was created based on the difficult integration of these needs and split into two “modules”: a short and streamlined base overlaid by a high and large face. The two elements are visibly separated on the front by a kind of curved strip which was made to host the lights, the windshield-wiper mechanisms, and the pollen-filter cartridge. The layout of the front lights onto different planes deserves special attention, as it partly gives the front its amusing look. The three pairs of round lights placed at different heights are positioned to best illuminate the road: the fog lights in the bumper, the low-beam lights in the grille, and high-beam lights in the curved strip near the windshield. Meanwhile, it has an extremely unique look from behind, where the taillights stand out: two red hearts which pop out on the smooth surface. The side windows ensure exceptional exterior visibility. The windshield is supported by a curved strip which comes out of the intersection of the beltline and the profile which creates the structure’s lateral ring. The two profiles which anchor the face to the vehicle’s base are exposed and extend along the entire roof like two slightly noticeable veins. In this way, the structure enhances its role in protecting the cabin.
Lastly, the Multipla was also innovative from an industrial point of view. Thanks to its Space Frame structure, it responded to two different requirements: superior production flexibility and low fixed investments. This technological innovation also reflects the environmental commitment of Fiat, which has always put an emphasis on important issues linked to production, like the rational use of energy, waste reduction, and the adoption of the most advanced and sustainable industrial processes.
 

Intelligent ideas for optimal driving comfort and traveling pleasure
Great ideas do not take away any precious space. This is another one of the strengths of this model which, thanks to its innovative architecture, was the only truly “3+3” seater in its segment. In fact, the original design of the cabin turned a four-meter long vehicle into a genuine minivan. The Multipla transports up to six people in two rows of three seats, all of whom have lots of space and freedom of movement. The side passengers’ heads are far from the walls, so they do not feel cramped. Moreover, the modularity created by the seats which fold down and can be completely removed allows one to obtain up to 1,900 liters (measured up to the roof) of trunk space. Plus, the vehicle’s interior volume was the best in the segment at over 3 cubic meters. Its versatility and spaciousness do not take away from the pleasure of driving a model which feels like a sedan. And these intelligent solutions also make the Multipla the best vehicle for socializing and “feeling good on board”. In fact, it is the ideal car for traveling with friends when six seats and a large trunk are needed. It is a vehicle for free time which allows one to fit the number of seats to the number of passengers (three, four, five, or six), using all of the remaining space to transport objects. It is a vehicle in which three people can travel, dedicating the free space on the completely flat floor to long or heavy objects. Thanks to its compact dimensions and ample visibility in every condition, it is a car which is fit for everyday trips in city traffic. Essentially, it is many vehicles in one. The Multipla is capable of transforming based on the needs of the moment and taking on, from time to time (and only for the necessary amount of time), the configuration of a station wagon, a minivan, a sedan, or a van. It “multiplies” (as its name states) the ways in which it can be set up or driven and allows for free and inventive use of its interior space.
 

The glass bubble inspired by modern architecture
In the interiors, the same design “philosophy” has resulted in a careful layout of the space, the prudent elimination of any waste, and the use of any opportunity. The first sensation when one gets on board the Multipla is its incredible amount of space, as it is much bigger than its exterior lets on. To ensure the greatest comfort when getting in or out of it, the front pillar is in an advanced position. Sitting down on any of the six available seats is pleasant: all of them are equally wide, comfortable, safe, and ergonomic. The mechanical elements have been moved up as much as possible to ensure maximum freedom of movement to the driver and the rear roominess is comparable to that of a limousine. The large side windows ensure exceptional visibility and provide a feeling of openness towards the exteriors. Those who travel in the Multipla will feel perfectly at home in the surrounding environment and a part of the world around them. Giolito explained: “The Multipla’s cabin was also inspired by other sectors which enhance the concepts of well-being and comfort. I’m talking about the architecture of the Velasca Tower in Milan, which was designed to optimize efficiency by giving greater breath to upper floors. Similarly, the Agusta helicopters have a cabin in which the windowed part is wider in the upper part, which allows for greater visibility both above and below. The Multipla has the same efficient approach because it expands its cabin where the passengers’ heads are, guaranteeing them an incredible amount of visibility.”
 

Seats, the dashboard, and on-board features
In addition to being spacious, the Multipla is extremely versatile. Laid out into two rows, the seats allow one to make use of a roomy trunk. All of the seats have an adjustable backrest; the rear ones can be folded down to increase the cargo space or be removed. The rear seats can be placed in different positions to increase the cargo capacity. The central seat contributes to the comfort of the rear passengers, as it slides and can be folded to make a table. In place of the central seat of the front row, a piece of furniture can be mounted with storage compartments, including a spacious fridge powered by the car’s battery. The freedom to remove the seats allows one to set up the interiors in many different ways (each rear seat offers seven options).
Moreover, the organization of the devices and onboard instruments is completely innovative. The horizontal layout of the dashboard looks like a work surface where various commands, dials, and tools are organized based on strictly rational criteria. The frequency with which they are used, the best distance for an easy read, and their complementary or analogous functions were all taken into consideration. Traditionally, the dashboard is a flat and vertical surface in which the various elements of the instrumentation are laid out. Meanwhile, the Multipla’s designers created and designed it with three-dimensions in mind. This creates a strong formal impact and ensures the easy and natural control of the various instruments, which are simple to recognize and read. The speedometer is essentially placed on the surface of the dashboard. Situated slightly to the right of the steering wheel, it faces the driver, who can easily consult it without lowering his or her gaze—like those who work at the computer can rapidly glance at the screen. Furthermore, the increased distance of the instrument from the driver ensures easy and quick reading. Air circulation and ventilation take place through a system of vents and a diffuser which emerges from the dashboard surface. The most important commands and control instruments are set up on a central area.
Next to the driver, in the ideal ergonomic position, there is the gear shift—the most important interface in the constant dialogue between the driver and the car. There are also many storage compartments which allow one to take full advantage of every nook in the cabin and find the right place for everything: from compartments above and below the dashboard to those under the sun visors, soft pockets behind the backrests, hard pockets along the doors, a drawer under the front right seat, and a radio and phone holder.
 

Sustainable engines and superior safety
As far as its engine options are concerned, the 1998 Multipla could be equipped with four engines: the traditional 1.6 Torque 16v 76 kW (103 HP) and 1.9 JTD 85 kW (115 HP) engines which guaranteed low fuel use, stunning performance, and balanced, elastic, and fun driving. Plus, the Multipla was already environmentally conscious and included two particularly “clean” versions combined with the 1.6 "Natural Power" 68 kW (92 HP): the solely methane “blupower” and the bi-fuel methane and petrol “bipower” version. Instead of having the classic steps under the rear seat, the floor is flat and contains no encumbrances, and is even big enough to host the components of environmentally friendly engines in its lower part. Last but not least, Multipla Fiat Hybrid Power petrol and electric engine was introduced in 2000, which was produced in a few models for the Athena Project in Naples. The Multipla also offered numerous safety systems and devices: from ABS to ESP, six airbags, sensors which modulate airbag use based on a passenger’s weight and mass. Moreover, window-bags were also available which descend along the windows to safeguard the passengers’ heads in the case of a side collision. The rear seats were equipped with a headrest which, during parking maneuvers, provided the driver with a clear view. The backrests guaranteed a solid hold. And to easily attach and secure car seats, the Multipla was equipped with Isofix attachments. Moreover, in 2004, the Multipla was the first vehicle in the Fiat Group to adopt speakerphone with Bluetooth technology built into the dashboard.

Turin, October 19, 2023