Used Fiat Bravo Hatchback 1995 - 2002 review

What's the used Fiat Bravo like?

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Overview

Take the plunge only if it's sound inside and out

Pros

• It's cheap to run and has lively engines

Cons

• It has a harsh ride and average handling

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This characterful Italian hatch - basically a three-door version of the more family-friendly five-door Brava - caused quite a stir in its mid-1990s heyday with its bold styling.

Part of that character comes from its engines, which have a pleasantly sporty rasp on the move. And, even the smallest engine in the range - originally a 1.4 petrol, but which was later replaced by a 1.2 - is lively. Even when the car was launched, the ride and handling rated only as average, but at least the Bravo is noticeably sharper to drive than the Brava. However, whichever you choose, refinement is poor. Inside, the driving position suits most shapes and sizes and there's a fair bit of room - albeit not as much as in the five-door Brava, and a good-size boot. Best of all, equipment levels are high and prices are rock-bottom. On the other hand, these aren't the kind of cars that past owners have cherished, so you should expect them to need regular repairs.

Our recommendations

Which used Fiat Bravo should I buy?

During the Bravo's life, the most basic engine - the 1.4, or the 1.2 that replaced it - was the top-selling model and it's also the one to buy second-hand.

Either engine is gutsy enough and, anyway, a Bravo is best driven in a relaxed style. There were also a 1.6, a 1.8, a 2.0 hot hatch and a pair of diesels, but all they do is show up the limitations of the chassis. If you must have of these, the 1.6 is the best bet. The other motors don't suit the car particularly, although the diesels and willing and economical, if noisy. An auto gearbox is available with the 1.6 but it is likely to give trouble after a few years. The manual gearboxes, however, are tough, so stick to one of them. SX trim is the most common, offering electric front windows, remote locking and a decent stereo. ELX and HLX, the top two trims, are scarce but provide plusher cabins, alloy wheels and, in the HLX, the air-conditioning and anti-lock brakes absent from other models.