Multipla (1998–2010)

The Fiat Multipla of 1998 is either the most innovative or the most repulsive MPV ever made, depending entirely on who you ask. Six seats in two rows of three, a wide body that allowed a full-width dashboard instrument panel, and a face that looks like two cars welded together at the B-pillar. The Multipla’s styling was controversial to the point of inclusion in the Museum of Modern Art’s permanent collection as a design object. It was also extraordinarily practical.

The Car

The Multipla used 1.6-litre petrol and 1.9 JTD diesel engines in a body just 4.06 metres long that provided six proper seats, three in each row, with a full-width dashboard that gave the three front-seat occupants equal legroom. The unusual width was achieved using Fiat’s Type-C platform. A 2004 facelift tamed the styling substantially, to the disappointment of those who had found the original’s appearance a badge of honour. Around 264,000 were produced.

Buying

The pre-facelift car is the design statement; the facelifted car is more conventionally acceptable. The 1.9 JTD diesel is the practical specification. Rust in the lower body is significant on older examples.