Fiat Brava (95-02) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Good looking, talented family hatchbacks that are functional but fun. Three­door Bravo has a sporty character and holds its value better on the used market. Brava is the practical choice for families, with five­door access and more room in the back. Both are modern and fairly reliable, but prices are surprisingly affordable. The range was improved and re-badged in early 1999, knocking the used value of earlier cars hard.
3 out of 5

Other Fiat reviews

1.5 out of 5

Safety

Under its attractive skin, Brava behaves like a car that was designed in the early 1990s. Euro NCAP rates it as a two star car, putting it behind its contemporaries. A driver's airbag is standard, but passenger and side airbags only came as options. Security is so-so; there's an immobiliser and visible VIN etching, but locks are not strong and deadlocks were never fitted.

NCAP Test

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    2 out of 5

  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    2 out of 5
3 out of 5

Reliability

Major mechanical failure is unlikely but niggling faults are common – especially electrics; rust-resisting galvanised body.

Car check problem points

Body

Parking knocks, including kerb scrapes on alloy wheels.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems noted apart from obstructive reverse gear change.

Other

Minor trim defects; misaligned wheels; wear and tear on hard-driven sports versions.