Fiat Qubo
The Fiat Qubo is a compact MPV that’s fantastic for families who need a lot of space and versatility. Based on the Fiorino van, it doesn’t look at all commercial, and is actually nicely designed and very funky. With a driving experience akin to a car, and great value for money, it’s easy to see why the Fiat is a popular choice.
Introduced in 2008, the Qubo has seating for 5, some small but spirited engines and rear sliding doors that make embarking very easy. The front wheel drive setup makes it easy to drive. Sharing design characteristics with the Citroen Nemo Multispace, the Fiat definitely has a lot of personality and some Italian flamboyance that makes everything come together nicely.
The exterior is quirky with some cool shapes and absolutely huge windows. Unlike related models from other manufacturers, the Fiat has had a shave, so the plastic beard around the front is gone, making it look a bit classier and less commercial. Inside, things are well laid out, solidly made and very functional. A huge amount of cabin space means families will have no trouble, especially on long journeys, and the boot is quite sizable too. While not outwardly glamorous and stylish, it does the job perfectly, and you get some good equipment.
One of the best features about the Qubo is the driving experience, which is pretty much the same as a small hatchback. It’s similar in length to most regular compact cars, but is taller, so agility isn’t a problem. The FWD layout provides some good grip in the turns and is composed on all types of road. With a 1.3 diesel or 1.4 litre petrol available in the engine department, the Fiat might not be the fastest around, but it’ll get you there cheaply and without drama.
Buying a second hand Fiat Qubo is definitely the best way to get absolute value for money because costs will be significantly lower. Motors.co.uk prides itself on listing some of the highest quality used cars for sale at massively discounted prices, so it’s not at all difficult to bag a bargain.
The simple truth is that if you want a car that can seat 5, offers high levels of practicality and doesn’t break the bank every time you get out on the road, the Fiat Qubo could be for you. Funky, fun and quite flamboyant, it might be based on a van, but that’s where the similarities end. It’s simply a fantastic mini people carrier that performs very well indeed.