The 350 Project, which is now revealed as the Fiat Idea, is the second model to get a world preview today. The Fiat Idea will go on sale in all the main European countries at some time between this autumn and early 2004.
This original model represents a whole new way of 'being a car' because it combines two very different automotive concepts: the handling and dimensions of a compact (it's just under 4 m long, 1.7 m wide and 1.66 m high) combined with the modularity and versatility of a true MPV.
Inside, the Fiat Idea is generously equipped, warm and welcoming, its interior flexibly adaptable to its occupants' changing needs. A real home-from-home that offers every comfort: an artful selection of colours and fabrics; space you can really use; and an air of casual refinement. In addition, the new model comes with a vast array of exclusive fittings and fitments: from the bi-zone automatic climate control to the Cruise Control, from the six airbags to the advanced robotised
transmission system that operates in either sequential or automatic mode.
All that plus the fact that the Fiat Idea is one of the most comfortable cars in its segment. Examples of that comfort include: easy access; adjustable steering wheel and driver's seat; 2510 mm wheelbase; big modular boot assisted by a sliding rear seat plus the highest roof in Segment B or C which means that the driver's seat could be raised higher above the ground with obvious advantages in terms of both easy access and mastery of the road.
On the safety front, this new MPV compact is one of the best in its segment. In fact the Fiat Idea offers up to 6 airbags (two-stage activation at front plus side and window bags to protect back seat passengers as well); seat-belts (adjustable at front with pre-tensioners and load limiter) and three-point at rear (also on the centre seat). And just to make sure that even the tiniest passenger travels in total safety, the Fiat 350 is equipped with ISOFIX attachments. As for active safety, the Fiat Idea comes with standard ABS plus EBD and Brake Assistant, as well as optional ESP complete with Hill Holder for easier uphill starts.
Brilliant performers that are positively stingy with fuel. Those are the primary virtues of the engines that come with the new model which are also unusually quiet thanks to the optimum layout and configuration of their exhaust systems. The Fiat Idea will be launched with a choice of a 1.4 16v petrol and a 1.3 Multijet 16v engine both combined with a manual or robotised Dualogic gearbox with a 1.2 16v and a 1.9 JTD Multijet scheduled to appear a few months after the launch.
In other words, the Fiat Idea is the ideal vehicle for a young family's energetic life style, both a loyal companion in the urban traffic through the working week and an oasis of relaxation and tranquility at the weekend or on long journeys. Clearly then this new model is aimed at motorists whose needs, tastes and life styles may differ but who have one thing in common: the desire to own a car that looks and feels good and has what it takes to satisfy their desire for freedom.
Apart from these two world previews, the Fiat stand at Geneva also offers visitors a chance to admire a couple of original concept cars based on the Fiat Gingo. One is the Fiat Simba, Europe's first compact off-roader that can handle the African savannah or the urban jungle with equal aplomb. The second is the Fiat Marrakech, a fun buggy that would make an ideal holiday companion.
Also on the Fiat stand a glass showcase containing the new 1.3 Multijet 16v engine that has been created for the compact models in the Fiat and Lancia ranges. This second generation Common Rail power unit packs some refined technology into a crankcase that is under 50 cm long and 65 cm high. This is the smallest Common Rail diesel four cylinder on the market today. It is certainly the only one you can buy that crams six standard size components (namely four valves, one injector and one glow
plug) into a cylinder less than 70 mm in diameter.
Text and photos courtesy of Fiat Auto
