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INTRODUCTION
 Everyone
loves the fun and friendly New Multipla and now the car offers even more because
its new look gives it a closer family resemblance to the latest Fiat models.
The vehicle, introduced at the recent Geneva Motor Show, confirms all the
strengths of the previous model: six comfortable seats and the compact feel of a
saloon; a distinctive personality that stands out in the current motoring
scenario; flexibility of application - and extraordinary versatility.
The originally styled New Multipla is Fiat's answer to the need to pack a large
amount of internal space into a car only a little over 4 metres in length: it is
the only car in its market band to offer 3 + 3 seats combined with a roomy
luggage compartment. The model's special architecture also allows MPV-standard
driving to all intents and purposes.
For example, it is higher than segment B and C vehicles and this means that the
driver's seating level in relation to the ground is different for greater ease
of access and mastery of the road. This is one reason why the appealing people
carrier is able to offer its very unique take on style, versatility, interior
space and emission control. It achieves this by offering the smartest solutions
to ergonomic, space management and mechanical requirements.
While the New Multipla is the very essence of unmistakable, fun design, it is
also a specific example of the way ingenious products can truly improve the
quality of life on board. It is no mere chance that in 1999 an example of the
previous Multipla was exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York,
the most important and famous modern art museum in the world, as an example of
the innovative styling and engineering features that would appear on cars of the
future.
This came as no surprise, Fiat products have always been a byword for
contemporary appeal, ingenuity and ease of use. This original compact MPV is no
exception. Quite the contrary, it is the ideal choice for travelling, working or
leisure time.
Smart ideas for exceptional driving comfort
Good ideas need not take up precious space. Another great strength of the new
model is its innovative architecture that makes it the only true 3 + 3 seater in
its segment. The original design of the passenger compartment transforms a
vehicle that measures a little over four metres in length into a true MPV.
Suffice it to say that the New Multipla can carry up to 6 people in two rows of
three seats, each with plenty of space and freedom to move. Even the passengers
seated at either side have plenty of headroom and do not feel a sense of
constriction. And more, the view of the outside improves and you can see the
road right up to the base of the vehicle (this effect is aided, at the side, by
a very low waistline and windows that descend half way down the vehicle).
A modular effect created by tilting the seats or removing them altogether allows
the creation of a luggage compartment that extends up to 1300 litres. Not to
mention the fact that interior passenger room is the best in the segment: more
than 3 cubic metres in fact. All this versatility and passenger room does not
affect the standard of driving satisfaction offered by the model.
Such smart solutions make the New Multipla a superlative place to socialise and
enjoy on-board life. It is the ideal car for a trip with friends when you need 6
seats and a roomy luggage compartment. It is a leisure vehicle that allows the
number of seats to be adapted to the number of passengers (three, four, five or
six) so that all the remaining space can be used to carry possessions. For
example, the car could carry three passengers so that the rest of the completely
flat floor can be left free for long, bulky items. It is also an ideal car for
everyday driving in town traffic due to its compact size and great visibility
under all conditions.
So many cars packed into one. Because the New Multipla can be converted to meet
your current needs and become a station wagon, MPV, saloon or van for as long as
you need one. As its name suggests, it multiplies the potential for expression
and movement and allows free and inventive use of interior space.
In the New Multipla, freedom also means the greatest driving safety. The new
model is the first in the Fiat group to adopt a handsfree set with Bluetooth
technology. This sophisticated system, available from the accessory range, means
that you can use your phone (provided it is a Bluetooth model) even if it is in
your jacket pocket or bag. It automatically lowers the radio volume (if turned
on) so that you can hear the voice of the person you are talking to through the
stereo speakers. The Bluetooth handsfree system developed for the New Multipla
blends perfectly into the facia and operates even if the car only comes with
wiring for a sound system so that the customer is free to purchase the radio he
or she wishes. The system can also manage to store up to three mobile phones at
the same time so that more than one of the people using the same car can make
direct use of the handsfree facility.
Revised styling, but still just as original and appealing
The exterior of the New Multipla features smooth lines and oceans of glass. The
front end is remarkable for the way the headlights blend perfectly into the new
grille (complete with smaller holes, a round logo and chrome detailing) and the
new bonnet and bumpers. The bumpers are now body-coloured.
The final result is a car that looks strong and stylish but is also fun and
carefree. At the rear, the impression of sturdiness and compactness is
underscored by wraparound bumpers and new tail-lights combined with a generous
tailgate that houses a large Fiat logo and perfectly matches the broad glazed
surface of the rear window. The same sensation of solidity and elegance is
evident in the side shape that fits in beautifully with the new style and is
underscored by painted sideskirts.
Inside, the car expresses all its ingenuity through a host of smart solutions
that offer all the virtues of good space management and versatility. For
example, the central seats are the same size as the side seats; the facia is
cloth covered - and the controls and instruments are arranged in accordance with
ergonomic precepts and the Multipla's original sense of style.
The new range
The New Multipla, due to go on sale this month in Italy (later in other
markets), offers two specifications (Active and Dynamic), both with a wealth of
features, no fewer than 10 body shades and a generous choice of options and
accessories. As far as engines are concerned, the new model may be equipped with
three power units: two conventional, the 76 kW (103 bhp) 1.6 Torque 16v and the
85 kW (115 bhp) 1.9 JTD that ensure low fuel consumption, outstanding
performance and a balanced, flexible and satisfying drive.
And one low environmental impact unit: the 1.6 Natural Power offering 68 kW (92
bhp) with a dual methane and petrol fuel system. This unit is the best
demonstration of Fiat's great commitment to reducing the environmental impact of
its new models. The Fiat Group has pursued this aim for many years with the help
of different disciplines: the Marketing department to interpret and analyse
customer expectations, sector specialists (from Fiat Auto and also Magneti
Marelli) - not to mention our suppliers and the engineers who work at Teksid.
The New Multipla also offers a host of safety systems and equipment: ABS, ESP,
six airbags and sensors that modulate airbag action according to passenger
weight and mass. Window-bags are also available that drop down along the windows
to safeguard the heads of occupants in the event of side collision. The rear
seats also come with a head-restraint that allows a good rear view during
parking manoeuvres. The backrests also ensure better containment. The New
Multipla is also equipped with Isofix attachments to secure child seats easily
and safely.
All these features make the New Multipla great value for money and it also
benefits from five years of exclusive advantages under the terms of the 'Fiat
per te' package. |
