Fiat Sedici
Ratings
3 stars
Summary
Average. It's got Italian design and Japanese engineering on its side - but is the Sedici really going to convince people to buy a supermini-sized SUV?
Review
Think of off-roaders and Fiat is undoubtedly not the brand that springs to mind. That's something that the Sedici is meant to change - a compact "soft roader" that's been developed in conjunction with Suzuki.
If this is bringing back memories of the disastrous partnership between Nissan and Alfa Romeo in the 'eighties then don't worry - the Sedici is far better than the dreadful Alfa Arna. It's looks are boxy but not unappealing, courtesy of Giugiaro's legendary design pen. The running gear and state-of-the-art transmission system have been developed by Suzuki, which knows a thing or two about how to build tough off-roaders.
The cabin is spacious and well equipped - although bland design limits the feeling of specialness. Rear space is relatively tight for a car in this segment - and the boot offers less capacity than a typical family hatchback.
Two engines are available - a 1.6 litre 16 valve petrol and a 1.9 litre Multijet turbodiesel. Unsuprisingly, it's the oilburner that makes the most convincing package thanks to a combination of gutsy performance, refined manners and seriously impressive economy. The 1.6 litre petrol version can only muster a relatively disappointing 107 bhp and sounds loud under hard use.
The Suzuki-sourced transmission is also a smart piece of kit. It uses an electrically controlled centre diff that allows the car to remain in front-wheel drive mode in most conditions and only calls the rear axle into play if slip is detected. Although primarily designed for on-road use, the Sedici is surprisingly adept when it comes to handling mud and slime.
Sussing out the market for the Sedici - and the Suzuki version for that matter - isn't quite so straightforward. If there really is a queue of customers waiting for a supermini-sized off-roader, they've yet to make their presence felt.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
3 star
Not one of Giugiaro's best efforts. Neat, tidy and well executed, but shouldn't we be expecting a bit more style from a modern Fiat?
Handling
3 star
For a car with a high centre of gravity, the Sedici handles surprisingly well on road - and can deal with slippery conditions, too.
Comfort
3 star
Suzuki looked after the interior and there are few complaints inside. The seats are comfortable - although legroom in the back is limited.
Quality & Reliability
3 star
Well constructed and tough-feeling but the interior still lacks the perceived quality of some rivals. Off-road use would likely cause serious damage to the plastic undertrays.
Performance
3 star
The 1.9 litre Multijet turbodiesel is a fine engine and provides the Sedici with ample performance. Sadly, the petrol engine isn't quite as convincing and lacks the torque for the job.
Roominess
3 star
There's plenty of space inside the Sedici, it's just that not all of it is usable. It's a pity Fiat didn't push through any innovative design features such as removable rear seats in order to mark it out from the crowd.
Running Costs
3 star
Suzuki-sourced transmission and running gear means that owners are unlikely to face hefty servicing bills. Choose the diesel and watch the pennies stack up.
Value for money
4 star
If you're looking for a supermini sized car that can cut-it off-road, a Sedici save you having to buy two cars. On that basis, it is excellent value. For the rest of the population, it's quite a lot of cash for a facility few will ever need.
