Fiat Bravo 1.4 T-Jet 150

[Tom]

Hello!

I'm thinking about purchasing a Fiat Bravo 1.4 T-Jet 150 within the next few days or so, and I'd really like to hear about your opinions of them, and also an insight into what they are like to live with on an everyday basis.

Firstly, a bit of background. Currently, I own a Fiat Grande Punto Active Sport and have done so for the last 18 months. I honestly can't fault the car in terms of reliability and space, but it leaves a bit to be desired in terms of the punch the engine produces, as well as the lack of equipment, such as no Air Conditioning and the like.

In terms of my job over the last 18 months, my workload has increased rather dramatically and I now spend a good amount of time on the motorway each week going to and from different circuits across the UK for commentary work and meetings. Alongside this, I also have a PA system that is taken to some events, and with all of the other equipment necessary for me to bring, the car can become overloaded. Here's an example of one of the last rounds where that occurred, with my colleague Lester in shot:



So, I'm looking for something that features a bit more equipment in order to keep me satisfied on long journeys and also more space for my equipment. Plus an increase in power can only be more fun! The reason for me looking at Bravo's is that they are incredibly good value for money and a good one featuring Cruise Control, Climate Control, Bluetooth Connectivity and so on, can be had for as little as £2500. I took one for a test drive the other day and rather liked it; 61,000 miles on the clock and all of the above features.

But, what's it like on a daily basis? Is there anything in particular that I should look out for?

Thanks in advance!

 

[homeforsummer]

I know you've already spoken to me about this, but given your practicality requirements, have you considered some kind of estate, or maybe even a van? Might not be as fun to drive but if you're thinking of changing your car largely on the basis of your increasing workload, a vehicle appropriate to any further increases may be worth considering. For a start, while I'd not normally advocate a diesel, it sounds like the kind of trips you do may justify one for the fuel savings.

 

[Tom]

I know you've already spoken to me about this, but given your practicality requirements, have you considered some kind of estate, or maybe even a van? Might not be as fun to drive but if you're thinking of changing your car largely on the basis of your increasing workload, a vehicle appropriate to any further increases may be worth considering. For a start, while I'd not normally advocate a diesel, it sounds like the kind of trips you do may justify one for the fuel savings.

It certainly been a consideration of mine, with regards to a diesel. However, anything around that age and price bracket has often conquered over 120,000 miles and that concerns me with regards to the other mechanical parts away from the engine, such as the suspension, clutch and gearbox.

 

[homeforsummer]

Yeah, I can certainly understand your budget may limit the chances of getting something newer and diesel-powered that hasn't been "well used".

 

[Tom]

Yeah, I can certainly understand your budget may limit the chances of getting something newer and diesel-powered that hasn't been "well used".

It's a real pain, as I wouldn't actually mind a diesel. Needs must.

 

[Matej]

One Croatian owner pointed out he managed to hit 140,000 miles with a 1.4 T-Jet 120 without having any problems with the engine, so I presume the 150 should last just as long (assuming it was properly maintained beforehand). Generally, the reviews for this car has been positive to very positive.

As for the cargo space, Škoda Fabia Combi is currently the only car I can think of that features large cargo space and great value for money. As a matter of fact, many people claim you can't find anything better within that class. In the Bravo class, older Ford Focus SW model could do great job, steering is allegedly far better than on Fabia...

If you want, you can post here your maximum budget and cars you would like to consider. I can always look on Croatian forum pages for clues about certain vehicles, records exist for almost every model.

 

[Tom]

One Croatian owner pointed out he managed to hit 140,000 miles with a 1.4 T-Jet 120 without having any problems with the engine, so I presume the 150 should last just as long (assuming it was properly maintained beforehand). Generally, the reviews for this car has been positive to very positive.

As for the cargo space, Škoda Fabia Combi is currently the only car I can think of that features large cargo space and great value for money. As a matter of fact, many people claim you can't find anything better within that class. In the Bravo class, older Ford Focus SW model could do great job, steering is allegedly far better than on Fabia...

If you want, you can post here your maximum budget and cars you would like to consider. I can always look on Croatian forum pages for clues about certain vehicles, records exist for almost every model.

Thank you for the advice, Matej, it's greatly appreciated.

So, my Punto was sold and went last night and I am picking up the Bravo that I test drove last week later on today. I'm looking forward to it, but very apprehensive as it's a 200 mile drive home and has no record of the cambelt having been changed. If that goes on the way home, it'll go from being a rather inexpensive car to a potential money pit - fingers crossed.

 

[Clark]

Honda Jazz? My sister has one and you can practically turn it in to a little van.

Just seen you've bought the Braco already.

 

[Saidur_Ali]

Thank you for the advice, Matej, it's greatly appreciated.

So, my Punto was sold and went last night and I am picking up the Bravo that I test drove last week later on today. I'm looking forward to it, but very apprehensive as it's a 200 mile drive home and has no record of the cambelt having been changed. If that goes on the way home, it'll go from being a rather inexpensive car to a potential money pit - fingers crossed.

Any reason for not getting it somewhere more local like following one (Also has 12 month AA membership and 3 month warranty for peace of mind included in price)?: Link

 

[a112]

Those cars are good. Step up from a Grande Punto that is already good for what it is. Only problems they have are with the air recirculation step motor, lower engine mount, control arm bushings and rear calipers. All maintanence stuff.

About the cambelt, I believe they are non interference, but I'm really not sure.