NEW FIAT MULTIPLA IN UK

Fiat Auto's new Multipla, which goes on sale in the UK on Saturday 28 August, is the second generation of Fiat Auto's unique, award winning mid-size MPV. It remains the only car currently available here to combine true multi-purpose vehicle flexibility with full-sized seating for six adults in two rows of three, together with class leading luggage space in a surprisingly compact package, just over four metres in length.

Since its UK introduction four years ago, the remarkable Multipla has received accolades from all quarters of the UK motor industry media. To date, this innovative MPV has won some 14 UK media awards, including BBC Top Gear Magazine and Top Gear TV programme's Car of the Year 2000 and Best Family Car 2000, 2001 and 2002, Fleet World and Channel 4 Driven's Best MPV 2000, Auto Express and Diesel Car magazine's Best Compact MPV 2001, MPV Towcar of the Year 2001, Used Car Buyer magazine's Best Used MPV and Used Car of the Year 2002 and, in April this year, What MPV and 4x4?'s MPV Mastermind 2004.

Building on these important awards, the new range features an enlarged, six model line-up offering new exterior styling, revised interior trims, new colours and enhanced equipment.

IN BRIEF

The new Multipla model UK line-up, priced from £13,295-£16,495 on-the-road, embraces three new trim levels - Dynamic, Dynamic Plus and Eleganza - and a choice of engines: a spirited Torque 1.6 litre 16-valve 103 bhp petrol unit, or Fiat Auto's renowned 115 bhp 1.9 litre JTD common rail direct injection turbodiesel, both mated to 5-speed manual transmissions.

The flexibility of the new Multipla's ground breaking, three-abreast seating configuration not only allows for extensive adjustment of the front seats and the removal and relocation of the rear seats into numerous practical formats, but also affords a class-leading 430 litres of luggage space - increasing to a cavernous

1900 litres of flat-floor loadspace with the rear three seats removed from the vehicle.

Even at entry level, standard equipment specification has been carefully considered to simplify and enhance life on board. This includes power assisted steering, a 6-speaker RDS stereo CD player, remote central locking, driver and double capacity front passenger airbags, electric height adjustable driver's seat, and electric front windows and heated folding door mirrors.

A wide range of options includes satellite navigation, parking sensors, a fridge, a twin screen DVD player, 17" alloy wheels and, from next year, Bluetooth connectivity and CONNECT NAV - Fiat Auto's unique communications system which is the most advanced infotelematic package on the market.

Allied to powerful, ventilated front and rear disc brakes, every version of new Fiat Multipla is fitted, as standard, with ABS anti-lock braking complete with electronic brakeforce distribution. On board, the fitting of up to six airbags including Smart 2 front airbags and window bags, three front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, three inertia reel safety belts in the rear, six full-sized head restraints, ISOFIX child seat attachments and an FPS Fire Prevention System, further contributes to making the new Multipla one of the safest MPVs available today.

In addition to a radical interior design solution offering the ultimate in flexible practicality, one of Fiat Auto's key design objectives for the Multipla was to produce a mid-range MPV that would handle as well as an equivalent saloon. As a result, in a class of competitors which often tend to be larger-bodied versions of existing hatchbacks whose suspension is inevitably compromised by existing dynamics, the purpose-built, spaceframe chassis, wide track and comparatively long wheelbase of the new Fiat Multipla combine with independent MacPherson strut front and trailing arm rear suspension to offer superior high speed stability, class leading roadholding, and handling of a tenacity more usually associated with a sporty hatchback.

DESIGN

While retaining all its highly praised interior design features, the new Fiat Multipla has undergone significant exterior styling changes.

A brand new front end featuring large, jewel-bright headlamps, an understated, chrome highlighted grille and a deep, purposeful air dam beneath an integral, colour coded bumper reinforces the new Multipla's exceptionally wide stance (1870 mm) and makes the new car instantly recognisable as the latest addition to the Fiat family.

In profile, the high roofline (8" taller than a conventional saloon) emphasises the Multipla's extensive glazing which makes up 50% of the vehicle's sides, providing exceptional visibility as well as creating a light and spacious interior.

The near vertical sides of the new Multipla fulfil three important functions; window seat passengers are afforded maximum head and shoulder room, solar gain is reduced to a minimum when the car is parked in hot sunlight for prolonged periods, and the doors may be opened without rainwater dripping onto the seats.

The car's waistline is slightly tilted towards the front, improving visibility of the road immediately around the car. The large door mirrors are unique in being split into two, covering not only the driver's blind spots, but also the kerb adjacent to the rear wheels to facilitate parking. Both mirrors may be folded flat electrically in order to gain increased access to narrow spaces.

The practical, black plastic door handle surrounds which guard against damage when the doors are opened have been retained, whilst door mouldings and side rubbing strips are now colour coded to match the bodywork.

At the rear, the new Multipla features revised light clusters and a colour coded bumper framing the large, curvaceous, top hinged rear cargo door which opens on gas-filled struts to a loadspace benefiting from a particularly wide door aperture, low sill height and fully flat floor throughout.

The new Fiat Multipla is available in a choice of nine exterior colours, including three new shades: Batik Orange, Crystal Green and Lagoon Blue.

Life on board

Within a conventional, mid-sized MPV, the accommodation of six people in three rows of two seats inevitably incurs significant penalties; the two rearmost seats are normally of a size only suitable for children, and residual luggage space is restricted.

The Multipla's unique, three-abreast-in-two-rows seating configuration not only affords each occupant a full-sized seat with a three point, inertia reel safety belt, but also boasts a class-leading 430 litres of luggage space - increasing to 1900 litres with the three rear seats removed from the vehicle.

A true multi-purpose vehicle, the new Multipla displays an impressive seating configuration versatility which both allows for the extensive adjustment of the front seats and the removal and relocation of the rear seats into numerous practical formats.

The six individual, orthopaedically designed seats are identically sized. With frames of aluminium, they are light (just 15 kg), yet very strong. They all come with adjustable head restraints as standard, and have rake adjustable backrests.

Front seats

All three front seats have fore and aft adjustment. The middle seat is set slightly back to maximise shoulder room and ensure that the driver is comfortable. When folded forwards the central front seat becomes a flat, stipple surfaced table with cup holders. Instead of the central front seat, an 18 litre refrigerated/heated storage compartment may be specified; this is a factory fitted option that is not removable once installed.

Rear seats

All three rear seats have two floor fixing positions (the centre seat has three) 15 cm apart. They can thus be moved forward to increase luggage capacity, aft to improve passenger legroom, or staggered to further enhance shoulder room. Each rear seat can be folded, pushed forward and held in position by elasticated straps, or removed altogether. When folded forwards, the central rear seat also becomes a flat table with cup holders. The backs of the rear outer seats also feature the same stippled, flat surface.

Loadspace

The versatility of the new Fiat Multipla also extends to its floor area. Being completely flat throughout, both loading, through either rear doors or tailgate, and moving around within the vehicle (further abetted by the car's high roofline) is far easier than with the 'stepped' floors of other compact MPVs.

With all rear seats occupied, luggage room is a class-leading 430 litres. Folding the rear seats away increases this capacity to 1300 litres, whilst removal of all three affords a remarkable 1900 litre luggage capacity.

Storage

Particular attention has been paid to the provision of extensive storage within the new Multipla. There are numerous cubby holes and compartments including two closed and two open dashboard compartments, dashboard cup holder and coin storage, pull down storage under both sunvisors, a large storage drawer under the right hand front passenger seat, door pockets front and rear, rear door cup holders, map pockets in the front seat backs, built in, stipple-finish tables to the backs of both central front and all rear seats, and additional cup holders to the backs of central front and rear seats.

Driver's environment

An electric height adjustable driver's seat (with adjustable lumbar support on Eleganza versions) allied to both rake and reach adjustment of the steering wheel offers a comfortable, ergonomically adaptable driving position across the entire Multipla range.

With two passengers seated next to the driver, the radical design approach required to ensure safe, comfortable and easy access to the controls and instruments results in one of the most striking and ergonomically efficient dashboard layouts to be found in any car.

Within the angled dashboard arrangement, the various instruments and controls are set out in strict hierarchy commensurate with their frequency of use, complementary functions and ease of reading. The speedometer is offset to the left of the driver, to maximise forward vision. The gear lever's fascia location brings it to within the closest practical proximity of the steering wheel, allowing for quick, accurate changes with minimum physical effort. Stereo and ventilation controls have also been located to offer ease of access with minimal driver distraction, and Multipla versions with satellite navigation fitted offer a choice of two screen locations; directly ahead of the driver, or in the middle of the console where the front seat passengers can see it. The handbrake is located down beside the driver's seat on the right hand side, optimising footwell space for front seat passengers.

Large areas of new Multipla's dashboard are trimmed in an upholstery-matching cloth finish, which both enhances the quality feel to the cabin interior and helps eliminate dashboard reflections onto the windscreen. Eleganza versions of the new Multipla offer a choice of two new cloth trims; Doria Blue and Doria Grey.

Accessories

A wide range of accessories has been produced for the new Multipla, each designed either by, or in conjunction with, Centro Stile Fiat to ensure reliability, practicality and an accurate reflection of the Multipla's style and personality.

Accessories include:

• Fridge
• Utility box
• Bicycle carrier
• Dog guard
• Dividing grille
• Ski rack, sack and boot bag
• Roof rack
• Windsurfer/surfboard rack
• Roof mounted top box
• Luggage, snack, storage and waste bags
• Beauty case
• Clothes rail
• Snow chains
• Child's seat
• Waterproof, double sided rug
• Seat and luggage compartment protection

SAFETY

The new Fiat Multipla's spaceframe construction - benefiting from the use of high strength steels that this system permits - makes it exceptionally strong and rigid. In conjunction with a body of remarkable torsional rigidity, the vehicle offers excellent levels of passive safety. Crash tests carried out at the Fiat Safety Centre have produced outstanding results, with the car meeting the strictest international standards.

It meets preventive safety needs with an adjustable cockpit that adapts perfectly to drivers of any size. User-friendly ergonomics allow drivers to operate all instruments and controls without taking their eyes off the road. The combination of a raised driving position, an enormous glass area and split door mirrors provides excellent all-round visibility, further enhanced by the availability of optional parking sensors.

PASSIVE SAFETY

Allied to a spaceframe construction designed to provide exceptional torsional stiffness yet absorb impact with maximum efficiency, the new Fiat Multipla may be fitted with up to six airbags, while three front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, three inertia reel safety belts in the rear, six full-sized head restraints, ISOFIX child seat attachments and an FPS Fire Prevention System are all fitted as standard across the range.

Airbags

New Multipla may be specified with up to six airbags; driver and passenger front and side airbags, as well as two window curtain airbags providing head protection in the case of side impacts. Their operation is managed by an electronic control unit that evaluates crash severity via a number of sensors located throughout the car.

Both driver and front passenger airbags are supervised by Fiat's Smart 2 control system, incorporating the latest-generation sensors that modulate airbag intervention according to passenger weight and mass. This system also functions when the ignition is switched off, so the bags will inflate even if the car is hit while stationary.

Importantly, the passenger airbag is a double, 120 litre capacity unit that covers both middle and window seat passengers.

The front passenger airbag may be deactivated manually via an ignition key switch on the fascia. A dashboard warning light indicates this condition. Though the seatbelt pre-tensioner remains active, a rear facing baby seat can therefore be safely fitted.

Side airbags, fitted as standard on Dynamic Plus and Eleganza models, protect the torso of the driver and front window seat passenger. They are activated by an electronic control unit that receives data from two sensors mounted in the central pillars, and emerge from the sides of the front seat-backs.

Front window curtain airbags, optional on the Dynamic Plus trim level and fitted as standard on Eleganza versions, are located under the roof rails and deploy to provide protection to passengers' heads in the case of side impact. The window airbags open from top to bottom to prevent the risk of secondary damage to occupants' arms on activation.

Seatbelts

In the new Multipla, all occupants enjoy the same high degree of safety, including the front and rear middle seat passengers, who benefit from an identical 3-point inertia reel seatbelt and full sized, adjustable head restraint to those of the other four passengers.

Additionally, the 3-point, inertia reel seatbelts of all three front seats are fitted with pre-tensioners and load limiters, the central front seat's restraint system being entirely self-contained.

Pre-tensioners reel in 8cm of seatbelt slack within a micro-second of an impact occurring, to prevent undesirable forward movement, whilst the built-in load limiter reduces the probability of minor injury by restricting the force the seatbelt exerts on the occupant's shoulders and chest during an accident.

ISOFIX Attachments

The new Fiat Multipla is fitted with Isofix mountings to ensure the easy and safe installation of child seats. The attachments take the form of two pairs of brackets located at the base of the two outer rear seat squabs. The bracket sizes and settings are in accordance with European standards so that the seat can be re-used on any other vehicle.

Fire Prevention System

This fully integrated system includes a cut-off valve and an inertia switch which immediately locks the electric petrol pump. This prevents fuel loss in the case of impact, roll-over or damage to the fuel lines. There is an aluminium heat shield to the vehicle underbody, and the fuel tank is formed in a plastic resistant to mechanical stress and fire. Special care has been taken over the location of key components within the engine bay, electrical system, fuel system and brakes to minimise the risk of damage by fault or accident. And the new Multipla's interior trim is also flame resistant.

ACTIVE SAFETY

All new Multipla versions feature powerful, 284 mm ventilated disc brakes front and rear. In addition, ABS anti-lock braking, complete with electronic brakeforce distribution, is fitted as standard

The servo assisted braking system features two independent crossover hydraulic circuits to ensure prompt, linear braking and shorter stopping distances.

ABS

An advanced BOSCH 8 ABS system, featuring four active sensors, four channels and an electronic control unit with 12 solenoids, is fitted as standard across the entire Fiat Multipla range. Active sensors monitor the speed of the wheels directly, without requiring any intervention from the central electronic control unit; response times are thus reduced.

The system is complemented by an Electronic Brakeforce Distributor (EBD) that governs the braking action on the rear axle to prevent the wheels locking and ensure full control of the car in all situations. The system also adapts its operation to wheel grip conditions and brake pad efficiency, to reduce pad overheating and the brake servo thrust requirement.

MODEL RANGE AND EQUIPMENT

The new Fiat Multipla will be available from launch in six versions, as follows:

1.6 16V Dynamic	£13,295
1.9 JTD Dynamic	£14,495
1.6 16V Dynamic Plus	£14,295
1.9 JTD Dynamic Plus	£15,495
1.6 16V Eleganza	£15,295
1.9 JTD Eleganza	£16,495

Three new specification levels - Dynamic, Dynamic Plus and Eleganza - which replace the existing SX and ELX trim levels, include the following:

Dynamic

• ABS anti-lock braking with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
• 6 speaker RDS stereo CD player
• Driver and double front passenger airbags
• Power steering
• Remote central locking
• Immobiliser
• Electric front windows with driver's 'One Touch' facility
• Electric folding heated door mirrors
• Electric height adjustable driver's seat
• Electric tailgate lock release
• Body coloured bumpers
• Unique 3+3 seating format
• 6 full sized headrests

Dynamic Plus

In addition to the Dynamic specification, Dynamic Plus adds:

• Climate control
• Side airbags
• Front foglights
• Alarm

Eleganza

In addition to the Dynamic Plus specification level, Eleganza adds:

• Window airbags
• 15" alloy wheels
• Electric rear windows
• Steering wheel mounted audio controls
• Parking sensors
• Leather steering wheel and gear lever surround
• Body coloured side rubbing strips

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT

The new Fiat Multipla's comprehensive standard equipment package is further enhanced by a range of innovative, safety and comfort enhancing options befitting a flexible, family vehicle, including satellite navigation, parking sensors, a fridge, a twin screen DVD player, 17" alloy wheels and, from next year, Bluetooth connectivity and CONNECT NAV - Fiat Auto's unique communications system which is the most advanced infotelematic package on the market.

Fridge/heated compartment

Customers who know from the outset that their Multipla will never need to carry six people can specify a fridge unit instead of the central front passenger seat.

Although referred to as a fridge, this unit can actually keep its contents warm as well as cold - according to the driver's wishes. It is divided into two compartments with a total capacity of 18 litres, and can easily accommodate three 1.5 litre drink bottles.

To avoid excessive drain on the battery, it operates only when the engine is running.

DVD player

The permanently installed, twin screen Veba DVD player will be locally fitted. The DVD player is installed under the front window passenger seat, with a wide screen monitor mounted in both the driver and window passenger head restraints.

The installation comes complete with a remote control unit, and two pairs of headphones to ensure minimal driver distraction while in operation.

Bluetooth connectivity

The new Multipla marks the debut of hands-free, Bluetooth technology in the Fiat model range, to ensure maximum driving safety under all conditions.

The system, available from 2005, allows the use of Bluetooth mobile phones on board, even when stowed in storage compartments, jackets or handbags.

The Bluetooth hands-free set designed for the new Multipla comprises a control panel installed in the centre of the fascia, featuring a blue warning light allowing for the monitoring of connection status under all light conditions.

The system automatically lowers the volume of the radio, and allows you to hear the caller through the stereo loudspeakers. An integral, echo-cancellation system maintains sound quality without any deterioration in timbre, thus preventing unpleasant, metallic tones. Moreover, the Bluetooth system is operable not only in the presence of a radio, but also when only the wiring is installed, hence retaining radio unit choice for the customer.

The system will store details of and manage up to three mobile phones simultaneously, enabling more than one passenger to make use of the hands-free facility.

CONNECT NAV

Available in the new Fiat Multipla from 2005, CONNECT is a ground-breaking, on-line system that connects the driver to an extensive range of services via either manual control or voice commands.

At the heart of the system is a live telephone connection to a call centre manned by operators who, through automatic vehicle recognition, will always speak the driver's language.

The operator will give the driver information on traffic and weather conditions en route, can find a bank, book a hotel or recommend a restaurant, and will even book airline tickets on request. If necessary, they will even guide a driver step by step to a destination, send out a recovery vehicle, or jog the memory over diary appointments or anniversaries.

Information on a requested destination is transmitted by the operator to the Multipla's CONNECT system and displayed in the form of an icon on the screen. This information may then be opened, stored in the unit's directory, or entered directly into the satellite navigation system for immediate guidance.

CONNECT NAV is fitted with a 192x80 pixel LCD graphic display. It includes an RDS radio with CD and MP3 music file playing functions, a trip computer, Dual Band GSM phone with hands-free operation and WAP Internet access, GPS independent navigation using pictograms and an SOS button linked to the Contact Centre for receiving information and assistance.

ENGINES AND TRANSMISSIONS

The new Fiat Multipla goes on sale in the UK with a choice of engines; a spirited Torque 1.6 litre 16-valve 103 bhp petrol unit, or a 115 bhp 1.9 litre JTD common rail direct injection turbodiesel. Both engines are mated to slick, positive 5-speed manual gearboxes, making gear selection via the fascia-mounted gear lever easy and accurate.

The JTD Engine: a breakthrough in diesel technology

In 2002, the Fiat Group was awarded the prestigious Economist Innovation Award (Energy and Environment category) for its ground breaking work in developing the 'common rail' diesel technology that is now used by every major European car maker.

The common rail high pressure direct injection diesel fuel system was designed and initially developed by the Fiat Group in the 1980s, with contributions from Magneti Marelli and the Fiat Research Centre. It was handed over to Bosch for the final stages of development and industrial production in the early 1990s, and the first car to use the new system was the Fiat Group's Alfa Romeo 156 JTD in 1997.

'Unijet', badged JTD, is a development of this technology. Further revolutionising diesel engine design, it allows the proven Fiat JTD units to set new dynamic standards and compete head on with petrol engines across nearly all criteria, whilst still retaining the core diesel values of reliability, low maintenance, reduced CO₂ emissions and exceptionally low fuel consumption figures.

Compared to conventional injection systems, Unijet injection offers not only a general improvement in performance, but also makes for a far quieter engine (a reduction of up to 8 dBA, dependant on engine speed).

In conventional diesel injection systems, fuel delivery to the injectors is driven by a mechanical pump. Injection pressure rises as engine speed increases, imposing limits on the optimisation of combustion and the engine's performance, not to mention its noise and emissions characteristics.

By contrast, with the Unijet system, injection pressure is independent of engine speed and load, since the injection pump generates pressure on a cumulative basis. Moreover, since pump and fuel injectors are electronically controlled, both the injection pressure and fuel quantities injected can be optimised at every point on the power curve.

The system consists of a small pump immersed in the fuel tank which delivers diesel oil to the primary (high pressure) pump (driven by the timing belt), which continuously 'pushes' diesel oil into an accumulator. Thus the accumulator tank, or 'rail', always contains pressurised oil whatever the engine speed and 'load' (the accelerator pedal's demand for power).

A pressure sensor on the rail and a pressure regulator on the pump respectively monitor oil pressure inside the accumulator, varying fuel pressure continuously. Such precise pressure management across the entire power curve optimises combustion efficiency, thereby producing enhanced performance and fuel economy. That is because the higher the diesel oil pressure entering the injector, the finer the fuel spray produced, making for an enhanced air-fuel mix, more complete combustion and a reduction of exhaust fumes.

However, the higher the pressure inside the combustion chamber, the louder the noise. So the Unijet system combines very high injection pressures with the electronically controlled delivery of minute quantities of diesel fuel to create pre-ignition. Known as pilot ignition, this pre-ignition system takes 200 micro-seconds to deliver just
1.5-2 mm³ of diesel oil, raising combustion chamber temperature and pressure at the moment the piston reaches Top Dead Centre, thus optimising conditions for combustion proper.

Thanks to pilot injection, the heat release curve at the moment of main combustion is very much less steep, and the temperature and pressure peak is also at a lower level. The same amount of energy is produced, but in a more gradual manner. And it is this progressive delivery that drastically reduces engine noise and eradicates the lumpy, clattering noise normally associated with diesel engines.

Moreover, in order to further optimise combustion, Fiat has adopted multi-jet fuel injectors with the smallest possible apertures to atomise the diesel vapour. The cylinder intake port is formed in a spiral shape to optimise air swirl. This combination of an atomised fuel spray and swirling air produces an air-fuel mixture that burns ultra-efficiently.

So, common rail technology guarantees enhanced combustion efficiency and better performance; pre-injection offering quieter combustion, easier cold starts and reduced exhaust emissions.

Compared with a traditional, pre-combustion chamber type of unit, a Unijet engine of the same size delivers an average 12% improvement in performance, plus an average 15% reduction in fuel consumption; the saving ranging from 6% at idle to 20% at full power.

1.9 JTD (115 bhp)

1910 cc
4 cylinders
Power: 115 bhp @ 4000 rpm
Torque: 188 lb.ft @ 2000 rpm
Top speed:			109 mph
Acceleration 0-62 mph:			12.2 seconds
Fuel consumption:	in town:		35.3 mpg
	out of town:		51.4 mpg
	combined:		44.1 mpg
CO2:			170 g/km

The 115 bhp 1.9 JTD engine is a development of Fiat's proven common rail turbodiesel family. Certain refinements have been made to the original, highly successful mechanical configuration to boost performance and lower both fuel consumption and emissions.

Turbocharging is managed by a new generation Garrett variable geometry turbocharger. This unit regulates the exhaust gas flow through a moving vane distributor that optimises turbine operation to ensure high engine flexibility at low speeds and a simultaneous increase in power and torque.

Transmission

The 115 bhp JTD engine is fitted with a new 5-speed manual gearbox, designed by Getrag and optimised for the Fiat Multipla. It features reduced axial dimensions, baulk-ring synchronisation, dual cone synchronisers on first and second gear and dynamic lubrication to ensure exceptionally low noise levels.

1.6 16v petrol engine

1596 cc
4 cylinders, 16 valves
Power: 103 bhp @ 5750 rpm
Torque: 107 lb.ft @ 4000 rpm
Top speed:			106 mph
Acceleration 0-62 mph:			12.6 seconds
Fuel consumption:	in town:		25.4 mpg
	out of town:		39.2 mpg
	combined:		32.8 mpg
CO2:			205 g/km

The 1.6 litre 16 valve unit has undergone structural changes to improve fuel efficiency, increase torque and lower weight.

A longer stroke, a more compact combustion chamber, pistons that are 20% lighter and a reduction in timing system friction through the use of only one spring per valve improves fuel economy, gives increased torque at low speeds and improves driving flexibility.

Engine weight has been reduced by 4 kg through changes to the crankshaft, pistons, crankcase, mountings and auxiliary components. A new, flexible, compressor drive belt removes the need for a tensioner and ensures the component lasts as long as the engine itself.

Drive-by-wire electronics, a high chamber density catalytic converter that is active even when the engine is warming up, and the replacement of HT leads with pencil coils further abet smooth driving, lower fuel consumption and lower emissions.

Transmission

The 1.6 litre unit is mated to the C514 5-speed manual gearbox which has undergone improvements to the gears, synchronisers, lubrication, inner gear linkage and clutch control.

Baulk-ring Borg Warner synchronisers are fitted to all speeds. First and second gears come with dual cone synchronisers requiring 40% less engagement effort than a single gear type. A selection travel limiter has been added to safeguard against the involuntary selection of reverse and make fifth gear easier to engage. Lubrication is dynamic, with oil flows channelled through holes in the casing, to reduce wear and increase efficiency.

RIDE AND HANDLING

Against rivals which tend to be larger-bodied versions of existing hatchbacks whose suspension is inevitably compromised by existing dynamics, one of Fiat's key design objectives for the Multipla was to produce a mid-range MPV that would handle as well as an equivalent saloon - a target that has been achieved with no small degree of success.

Thanks to its purpose-built, spaceframe chassis and wide track, the new Fiat Multipla offers class leading roadholding, and handling of a tenacity more usually associated with a sporty hatchback. Moreover, by placing the wheels at the extreme corners of the car, Fiat's engineers have maximised its wheelbase length, further abetting the Multipla's remarkable high speed stability. Effective damping combined with a tried and tested MacPherson strut front suspension system combines excellent vehicle control on bends with smooth absorption of road surface irregularities and undulations.

Front suspension

The new Multipla's front suspension system is the independent MacPherson strut type with helical springs, which delivers high levels of ride comfort and driving safety, along with exceptional grip and minimal roll.

Key elements to the set-up comprise:

• End-of-travel bump stops made from 'Cellasto' which produce a more progressive response through bends.
• An anti-roll bar connected directly to the shock absorbers in order to obtain greater responsiveness during cornering
• Hydraulic, double-action pressurised shock absorbers to reduce noise. An integral Teflon layer is incorporated on the piston to reduce sliding friction
• Swinging arms forged in steel to reduce pitching under braking

Rear suspension

At the rear, the Multipla employs an independent system with trailing arms and an auxiliary subframe. Trailing arm suspension reduces pitching and ensures optimum stability under braking by reducing any tendency to oversteer. To maximise ride comfort, driveability and handling performance, it benefits from the following features:

• Flexible rubber/metal connection blocks that minimise vibration and enhance ride comfort
• Hydraulic pressurised shock absorbers with sealing rings made from a low friction material called Krilon
• Variable flexibility springs to optimise ride comfort irrespective of load weight
• End-of-travel bump stops made from 'Cellasto'
• An anti-roll bar

Steering

The new Multipla's power steering system has been designed for lightness during parking and manoeuvring at low speeds, together with precision and safety at high speeds.

Hydraulic power steering is standard on all models, and is particularly quiet in its operation. It works in inverse proportion to the speed of the car, i.e. maximum assistance when the vehicle is travelling slowly (e.g. parking) and minimum assistance when travelling fast on the open road, when the driver needs maximum 'feel'. The turning circle of the Multipla is 11.0 metres.

ends...

For further information please contact:

PETER NEWTON Public Relations Director

or

Puneet Joshi Press Officer

Fiat Auto (UK) Limited

Tel: 01753 511431 Fax: 01753 516871

E-mail addresses: peter.newton@fiat.com/puneet.joshi@fiat.com

This press release and photographs are also available on www.newspress.co.uk

Further information can also be obtained on www.fiatautopress.com

35987/230804

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

	1.6 16v		1.9 JTD
ENGINE
No of cylinders, arrangement	4, in line, front transverse		4, in line, front transverse
Bore x stroke (mm)	80.5 x 78.4		82.0 x 90.4
Capacity (cc)	1596		1910
Compression ratio	10.5:1		18.45:1
Maximum power: bhp (kW-EC) @ rpm	103 (76) @ 5750		115 (85) @ 4000
Peak torque: Nm-EC (kgm-EC) @ rpm	145 (14.8) @ 4000		203 (20.7) @ 1500
Emission control	Three-way catalytic converter in engine bay, 2 Lambda probes		Two oxidising catalytic converters (in engine bay and underbody) EGR electric valve
Timing gear	DOHC (toothed belt) hydraulic tappets, 16v		SOHC (toothed belt)
Fuel system	√elf-adaptive timed sequential electronic MPI		Electronically controlled "Common Rail" Unijet direct injection, with turbocharger and intercooler
Ignition	√tatic, electronic, combined with injection		By compression
TRANSMISSION
Drive	Front		Front
Gearbox: no. of speeds	5 + reverse		5 + reverse
STEERING
Type	Rack and pinion with power steering		Rack and pinion with power steering
Turning circle (m)	11		11
BRAKES
Front discs: diameter (mm)	284 (ventilated)		284 (ventilated)
Rear discs: diameter (mm)	228		228
SUSPENSION
Front	MacPherson independent type, with transverse lower wishbones anchored to an auxiliary cross-beam, offset coil springs and anti-roll bar
Rear	Independent with tie rods anchored to an auxiliary cross-beam, offset coil √prings and anti-roll bar
WHEELS
Tyres	185/65 R 15 88 H		185/65 R 15 88 H

 

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase (mm)		2666		2666
Track* front/rear (mm)		1515/1520		1515/1520
Length/width (mm)		4.09/1.87		4.09/1.87
Height (mm)		1.69		1.69
VDA luggage capacity (dm3): standard		430		430
to roof level with rear seats removed		1900		1900
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery capacity (Ah)		50		60
CAPACITIES - WEIGHTS
Fuel tank (litres)		63		63
DIN kerb weight (kg)		1300		1370
Max towable weight (kg)		1200		1300
PERFORMANCE
Top speed (mph)		106		109
Acceleration (sec): 0-62 mph		12.6		12.2
FUEL CONSUMPTION (EC Directive 1999/100) mpg (l/100 km)
Urban		25.4 (11.1)		35.3 (8.0)
Extra-urban		39.2 (7.2)		51.4 (5.5)
Combined		32.8 (8.6)		44.1 (6.4)
CO2 emissions (g/km)		205		170

* Unladen

STANDARD EQUIPMENT AND OPTIONS

	DYNAMIC	DYNAMIC PLUS	ELEGANZA
	1.6 16v	1.6 16v	1.6 16v
	1.9 JTD	1.9 JTD	1.9 JTD
STYLE FEATURES
Body-coloured bumpers	√	√	√
Black side rubbing strips	√	√	-
Body-coloured side rubbing strips	-	-	√
Leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear lever	-	-	√
Metallic paint			•
15" alloy wheels	-	-	√
17" alloy wheels			•
COMFORT/FUNCTIONALITY
Power steering	√	√	√
Fiat CODE immobiliser	√	√	√
Height-adjustable steering wheel	√	√	√
Electrically opened tailgate with exterior handle	√	√	√
Storage compartments under sunvisors	√	√	√
Tinted windows (not dark)	√	√	√
Folding and removable rear seats	√	√	√
Front and rear seats with reclining back	√	√	√
Electrically adjustable driver's seat	√	√	√
Electric front windows	√	√	√
Electric driver's window with one-touch control	√	√	√
Remote central locking	√	√	√
Fix & Go kit	√	√	√
Seat back pockets	-	-	√
Driver's seat with lumbar adjustment	-	-	√
Sliding central rear seat *	-		√
Climate control		√	√
Electrically adjustable door mirrors	√	√	√
Electric rear windows	-	-	√
Alarm	-	√	√
Electrically adjustable, heated and folding door mirrors	-	-	√
18 litre "Fridge" cabinet with thermal compartment (5 seat only)	-	-
Parking sensors			√
Electrically operated double opening sunroof †	-
Storage box under front passenger seat †	√	√	√
Spare wheel
SAFETY
Driver's airbag	√	√	√
Double front passenger airbag (with Smart2 system)	√	√	√
Side airbags	-	√	√
ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution)	√	√	√
Fire Prevention System (FPS)	√	√	√
Isofix attachments on rear seats	√	√	√
Pre-tensioners with load limiter on front seats	√	√	√
Central seats (front and rear) with three-point seatbelts	√	√	√
Halogen headlights	√	√	√
Rear window washer/wiper	√	√	√
3rd brake light	√	√	√
Foglights	-	√	√
Headlight washer
Window airbags	-		√
AUDIO & TELEMATICS
Radio CD player with six speakers	√	√	√
Steering wheel mounted audio controls	-	-	√
10 disc CD changer	-	-
Connect NAV: RDS radio, CD player, pictogram navigator, GPS module, GSM dual band, hands-free, SOS button and services
Satellite navigation: RDS radio, CD pictogram navigation, GPS module

√ Standard

optional

- not available

^{† Not available with CD changer}

^{* Not available with 'Fridge' cabinet and cold box}

^{Body colours and interior trim}

		DYNAMIC / DYNAMIC PLUS				ELEGANZA
		Red Neptune Cloth		Blue Neptune Cloth		Doria Blue Cloth		Grey Cloth with Grey vinyl trim
SOLID
Jump Blue		√		-		√		-
METALLIC
Scilla Red		√		-		√		-
Canary Blue		-		√		√		-
Batik Orange		-		√		√		-
Pareo Yellow		-		√		√		-
Black		√		√		√		√
Steel Grey		-		√		√		-
Crystal Green		-		√		√		-
Lagoon Blue		-		√		√		-

√ = Available

- = not available

^{NEW MULTIPLA PRICING}

^{Prices for the new range are as follows:}

NEW MULTIPLA	Basic Price £	VAT £	Total Retail £	OTR Charges £	OTR Price £
1.6 16V DYNAMIC	11,125.11	1,946.89	13,072.00	£223.00	£13,295.00
1.9 JTD DYNAMIC	12,150.64	2,126.36	14,277.00	£218.00	£14,495.00
1.6 16V DYNAMIC PLUS	11,976.17	2,095.83	14,072.00	£223.00	£14,295.00
1.9 JTD DYNAMIC PLUS	13,001.70	2,275.30	15,277.00	£218.00	£15,495.00
1.6 16V ELEGANZA	12,827.23	2,244.77	15,072.00	£223.00	£15,295.00
1.9 JTD ELEGANZA	13,852.77	2,424.23	16,277.00	£218.00	£16,495.00

^{Options pricing remains unchanged.}

^ends...

^{For further information please contact:}

^{PETER NEWTON Public Relations Director}

^or

^{Puneet Joshi Press Officer}

^{Fiat Auto (UK) Limited}

^{Tel: 01753 511431 Fax: 01753 516871}

^{E-mail addresses: peter.newton@fiat.com/puneet.joshi@fiat.com}

^{This press release and photographs are also available on www.newspress.co.uk}