Here’s some news to make you feel old as on the 26 January, 1988 the Fiat Tipo was born. The successor to the Fiat Ritmo, the original Tipo blended state-of-the-art technology with robustness, usability and practicality to conquered the C-segment. Those core values can still be seen in the model 30 years later. Yes, 30 year’s later!
Functionality and innovation
Fiat have shared with MotorMartin the following regarding their long running Tipo, stating that the original Fiat Tipo was a truly innovative concept designed to be capable of superior handling, performance, comfort and safety without compromising practicality. It focused on ergonomics like no Fiat had ever before. It employed innovative manufacturing technologies and high-quality materials to guarantee reliability and quality, including a lightweight, corrosion-free plastic boot hatch.
The new Tipo, according to Fiat, proudly bears the name of its precursor, with which it shares the same spirit and DNA. The design philosophy too harks back to the original, offering best in class interior space and a clean-cut exterior. The streamlined and aerodynamic sides are common to both the original and today’s model, as is a large rear hatch, which on the modern Tipo houses a category-topping 440-litre boot (550-litre for station wagon version).
Throughout its life the interior has been designed to express the Tipo values of practicality, simplicity and functionality. Back in 1988, the “Digit” trim level integrated a specifically designed digital instrument panel in the dashboard giving state-of-the-art functionality and ergonomics, while providing excellent legibility.
Today all variants of the Tipo family are packed with standard equipment, including 60/40 split folding rear seats, cruise control and automatic emergency brake, to make life better for everyone on board. This is a formula that has always characterised Fiat cars in the C-segment and is firmly rooted in the very DNA of the brand.
A complete family in a simple line-up
The 1988 Fiat Tipo was made on one of the first modular platforms. Its chassis was the foundation for other Fiat models including the Fiat Tempra, of which a traditional saloon body and a station-wagon were available. 30 years later, the Fiat Tipo is available as a 5-door hatchback and as a station wagon offering drivers a choice of outstanding value cars to suit their needs.
The original Fiat Tipo debuted in 1988 with five petrol and diesel engine versions, capable of satisfying all the market needs of the day, and was offered in a choice of two trim levels. This simple and linear line-up mirrors the current range with a choice of three petrol and three diesel engines on offer, across four trim levels.
Building on this heritage, the Fiat Tipo was developed by a dedicated international team of more than 2,000 people over three years, clocking up more than 8.7 million kilometres in the most extreme climate, road and altitude conditions to offer a car ready to take on the challenges of daily life with all the awareness and the maturity of its first 30 years.
The Fiat Tipo range is available to order now priced from £13,795 OTR for a Tipo Easy hatchback with 1.4-litre 16v 95hp petrol engine. For more information on the Fiat Tipo MotorMartin recommends you visit www.fiat.co.uk or to locate your nearest Fiat dealer visit www.fiat.co.uk/dealers.
And don’t forget to check out MotorMartin’s thoughts on the Fiat Tipo which can be found by clicking here and here.
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