Fiat Qubo 2010
Fiat, one of the biggest names in the car manufacturing business have just gotten bigger and are now preparing for an invasion of America. Since acquiring a controlling stake in “Chrysler”, Fiat plan to release a selection of their European line-up abroad, along with cutting down a few of the less popular Chrysler models. How will Fiat stack up against their more established rivals in the USA? Let’s take a look at the current Fiat line up and see which cars could make an impact across the Atlantic.The Fiat Qubo is one of the more recognisable cars in the Fiat line up. It is a derivative of the Fiat Fiorino. Classed as an MPV, this car should fit five people rather easily in its spacious interior. Despite the room offered inside, this car is still relatively compact. There are several ways to configure the seats inside to transform it from a people carrier to a luggage carrier, making it very practical and adaptable.The exterior is hardly beautiful, but it does have a whimsical charm about it. It looks like a more rounded and futuristic version of the Fiat Panda. The least attractive parts of the car are the receding bonnet and headlamps. The rest of it is perfectly acceptable but it won’t impress too many people. How it will be received State-side is a mystery.The interior is a little bland. There is plenty of black and grey inside which is hardly inspiring. The dials and buttons are simple enough and there is no feeling that the interior has been overly cluttered. The interior is smart and does its job well. Practicality over style is a fair enough comment.Under the bonnet of the Qubo sits a 1.3 litre 16v Multi jet engine. The multi jet engines created by Fiat showcase some of the latest technology and make Fiat cars more economic, fuel efficient and “greener”, meaning you can go further for less. The 1.3 litre should be able to produce around 75 bhp and reach a top speed of around 100mph. These figures are expected for a car that is made to be practical.The safety features are fantastic, with ABS and a whole assortment of airbags included as standard. The solid and quality of the build should protect any passengers as well. Transmission comes in the form of either a five speed manual or a six speed automatic.The Qubo will be competing with the popular Ford Transit Connect in America for use by small business owners and those in the trade such as plumbers, electricians and the like. The practicality of this car and the adaptable nature of the interior should make it rather successful.The Fiat Qubo is an odd looking car, no doubt. It is difficult to find it attractive, with some truly questionable design elements to it, but it also carries a certain charm with it. The highlight of the Qubo is its practicality. As an MPV it is great for carrying people or luggage and its compact size makes it easy to navigate even the busiest city streets.The fuel economy is amazing, with the standard Qubo capable of around 62mpg. The ride is perfectly acceptable, as is the handling. This is not a car for thrill seekers, more so for families and those looking for a reliable vehicle that can be used for a variety of purposes. Priced at around 11,000 pounds, this car is also cheap, adding to its overall affordability.
