Market Position:
The Fiat Multipla is known for its distinctive, avant-garde styling and its highly practical, spacious interior, particularly its unique three-plus-three seating arrangement.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed in the compact MPV segment against vehicles like the Renault Scenic, Citroen Picasso, and Ford Focus C-Max, differentiating itself with its modular interior and unique exterior design.
Key Features:
Three-plus-three seating configuration offering 6 seats in a compact footprint, exceptionally flexible interior, excellent visibility due to large glass area, and a focus on practicality and passenger comfort.
Design Philosophy:
Designed with functionality and passenger space as primary considerations, leading to its polarizing but practical exterior and interior layout.
Models Covered:
All Fiat Multipla models for the 2006 model year, including all engine types.
Content Scope:
Comprehensive coverage of owning, using, operating, and routine maintenance.
Page Count Estimate:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual / Operators Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant digital download
Device Compatibility:
PC, MAC, Smartphone, Tablet, Linux
Engine Operation:
Includes information on engine starting, running, cooling system, and lubrication.
Transmission Operation:
Covers clutch operation (if manual), gear selection, and automatic transmission usage (if applicable).
Brakes:
Basic operation, parking brake usage, and brake system warnings.
Steering:
Operation and any specific notes regarding the steering system.
Electrical System:
Instrument panel lights, dashboard indicators, lighting system operation, and basic electrical features.
Comfort Features:
Climate control, heating, ventilation, audio system operation, and interior controls.
Safety Features:
Seat belt usage, airbag system information, and child restraint system guidance.
Instrument Panel:
Detailed explanation of all gauges, warning lights, and indicators.
Wheels And Tires:
Tire pressure recommendations, wheel nut tightening torque (general guidance).
Routine Maintenance:
Covers checks for fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire inspection, and general upkeep.
Driving Techniques:
Guidance on efficient driving, handling in different conditions, and proper vehicle operation.
Troubleshooting:
Explanation of dashboard warning lights and their meaning, basic operational issues.
Emergency Procedures:
Information on what to do in case of a breakdown, flat tire, or other emergencies.
Fluid Checks:
Instructions on how to check and top up essential vehicle fluids.
Fuse Replacement:
General guidance on locating and replacing fuses.
Technical Depth:
Owner-level information focused on operation, basic checks, and user-serviceable items. Not a repair manual.
Engine Options:
For the 2006 model year, the Multipla typically featured Fiat's robust 1.9 JTD (MultiJet) turbodiesel engine and a 1.6 16v naturally aspirated petrol engine.
Engine 1.9 Jtd Power:
Approx. 105-120 HP (depending on specific JTD variant)
Engine 1.6 16V Power:
Approx. 103 HP
Fuel Efficiency:
Diesel variants (JTD) generally offered better fuel economy, while the petrol variant was more focused on smooth operation.
Fuel Type:
Diesel (1.9 JTD), Petrol (1.6 16v)
Emission Standards:
Euro 4 compliant for diesel variants.
Standard Transmission:
Typically a 5-speed manual transmission across most engine variants.
Optional Transmission:
An 'Dualogic' automated manual transmission was available on some models, offering clutchless shifting.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic clutch (for manual transmissions).
Transmission Fluid:
Manual transmission: Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 or GL-5 specification, typically 75W-80 or 75W-90. Automatic (Dualogic): Specific ATF fluid.
Width:
Approx. 1,870 mm (excluding mirrors)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,667 mm
Seating Capacity:
6 passengers (3 front, 3 rear)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 190 liters (behind the rear seats)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Can be significantly increased by folding or removing rear seats.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,300 - 1,450 kg (depending on engine and specification)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Refer to vehicle placard for exact GVW.
Euro Ncap Rating:
Achieved a 4-star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests (for models tested around its launch), highlighting good occupant protection for its class.
Active Safety Features:
ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), Power Steering, potential for ESP (Electronic Stability Program) on higher trims.
Passive Safety Features:
Multiple airbags (front, side), ISOFIX child seat mounting points, height-adjustable seatbelts, crumple zones.
Child Seat Support:
Designed with ISOFIX anchorages in the rear seats for secure child seat installation.
Infotainment System:
Base models may have a simple radio/cassette or CD player. Higher trims could feature a more advanced RDS radio with CD player and potentially steering wheel mounted controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, EBD were standard. ESP was an option on many models. Parking sensors were also available as an option.
Connectivity Options:
Limited connectivity for its era; typically did not feature integrated Bluetooth or USB ports as standard, though aftermarket solutions were common.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first (for petrol and diesel). Check manual for exact diesel particulate filter regeneration requirements.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For the 1.6 16v petrol engine, timing belt replacement is crucial, typically around 100,000-120,000 km or 5 years. Diesel models (JTD) use a timing chain or belt depending on the specific engine code – check manual.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 km or 2 years, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Recommended annually or every 15,000 km.
Engine Oil Spec:
Petrol 1.6: SAE 10W-40, API SL/CF, ACEA A3/B4. Diesel 1.9 JTD: SAE 5W-40, ACEA B3/B4, Fiat 9.55535-N2 or M2 specification. Always verify with manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically blue or green, with corrosion inhibitors. Fiat specification MS.90031 or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 standard.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual; typically a specific hydraulic fluid or ATF.
Common Issues:
Potential for electrical gremlins, suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), clutch wear on manual transmissions, diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues on older JTD models if not maintained or driven appropriately, and water ingress into cabin if drainage points are blocked.
Maintenance Tips:
Regular checks of the often-overlooked interior drainage points for the windscreen scuttle panel are recommended to prevent water ingress into the cabin.
Brand Heritage:
Fiat has a long history of producing practical and innovative vehicles, with a particular strength in small to medium-sized cars and MPVs.
Model Evolution:
The Multipla underwent a significant facelift in 2004, with updated styling and interior improvements, making the 2006 model part of the second generation.
Production Period:
First generation: 1998-2004; Second generation (facelifted): 2004-2010.
Manufacturing Location:
Typically produced at Fiat's manufacturing plants in Italy.
Recognitions:
While not winning major awards for conventional automotive design, the Multipla was praised by many critics and owners for its innovation, practicality, and unique approach to family motoring.
Design Recognition:
The original Multipla's design was even exhibited in the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York as an example of automotive innovation.