Fiat Croma
The Fiat Croma name has been used on two separate kinds of car- one a 4 door hatchback from yesteryear, the other a modern crossover MPV. Indeed both models are suitable for families, but it’s the latter that’s the most spacious and practical. A short lived auto in the UK, buying one cheaply is more than possible these days.
The first generation was produced between 1985 and 1996, while the second was on sale from 2005 to 2007 in the UK. De to competition from other manufacturers offering arguably better solutions, less than 900 units of the Croma were sold in its first year, contributing to its swift withdrawal. It’s still a good car though, with a nice blend of estate and people carrier motoring. A huge interior space, 5 seats and some punchy engines mean it’s still a competitive option.
There’s really nothing wrong with the way it looks from the outside, just that it’s not as exciting as other cars of the same ilk. Quite understated, there are some nice curves, and the front end isn’t all bad. If people in the UK had seen the stylish 2007 update, they might not have been so quick to judge. The Croma is massive inside, and both head and leg room is available in abundance. A 500 lire boot is competitive to say the least, and there’s also a substantial amount of kit. With a functional and solidly designed cockpit, to be honest there’s not a lot to complain about.
As an everyday car, the Fiat is as good as any. It’s laid back and casual, and enjoys cruising around at regular speeds rather than being thrashed on a motorway- although it can do that as well. Comfortable and surefooted on the road, the steering might not be the sharpest, but it’s definitely not bad. Negotiating busy streets and parking in tight spaces is quite easy as well. Engine options include 1.8 and 2.2 litre petrols, as well as 1.9 and 2.4 litre diesels. You’ll find the best performance end economy from the latter.
You could be forgiven for thinking it might be a challenge to find a second hand Fiat Croma with so few being sold in Britain, however if you check out the vast array of used cars for sale right here at Motors.co.uk, your search for a bargain will be much easier. Thousands of autos are listed at discounted prices, so uncovering a great deal on the Italian crossover will be straightforward.
So really the Fiat Croma is a solid all rounder that didn’t really deserve to be discounted by the British motoring industry. It has a lot to offer and is no worse than some modern day offerings. Solidly build, decently equipped and very spacious inside, it’s excellent value for money and makes for a bargain second hand buy.