FIAT Goes Large on Small Cars
Way back in the late 1950’s Fiat had a mission to provide its citizens with affordable, micromobility, from the cheerful and cheeky Fiat 500, to the original 600 Multipla, or multi-person car.
The Multipla 600 was a one-box car long before MPV’s were invented that could seat 6 adults , yet was only 3.5 meters long and had a wheel-at-each corner stance and a 2 meter wheelbase. It was truly innovative for it’s time and mobilised large families around in one, small affordable car - perfect for tight streets and easy to park. Plus it was favoured by taxi companies, too.
The Multipla 600 featured a modest 633 cc engine with 24 hp, which presented a challenge when fully loaded with people and faced with a steep hill. However, its take on engineering something untraditional, and unconventional was a revelation, undoubtedly inspiring other manufacturers to innovate in the micromobility segment.
However, the 1990’s saw the Fiat grow a lot to accomodate 6 occupants, but somehow Fiat forgot the brief of designing a car that truly innovative.
Not only was this new Multipla criticised as being the ugliest car ever made, but it had become simply a tall, long and wide, two box design hatchback. But to give this the full context, this was launched at a time when many manufacturers were offering a wide selection of less challenging looking, and more innovative MPV’s.
The Multipla’s unique selling point was to offer 6 seats from two rows, but manufacturers, like the Zafira from Vauxhall offered 7 seats and three rows which seemed to be more appealing.
But it seems Fiat has learned it’s lesson with its new 600 Multiplina concept. Whilst details are kept to a render, many have speculated as to what secrets the new micro-MPV will hold. However, what is evident is FIAT’s attention to styling, which does hark back to the original 50’s car. Whether 6 adults can squeeze into it remains to be seen, although this render suggests its strictly a four seater.
For now its a concept, and I applaud FIAT for its commitment to produce small, affordable cars 70 years on that has some character on display.
FIAT Multiplina Concept
———
About the Author
Graeme Cobb is a lifelong car enthusiast with a passion for writing about cars, EVs, industry updates and more.
You can find Graeme on 𝕏 at @graeme_cobb