Fiat Qubo (2009 – 2021) Review
Fiat Qubo (2009 – 2021) At A Glance
The Fiat Qubo is one of the cheapest routes into MPV ownership and provides decent value, thanks to its frugal diesel engines and large interior. Its boxy shape is evidence of that fact it's based on a van, so it it somewhat unrefined and somewhat lacking in creature comforts.
That said it is a practical five-seater, with a high roof line and a huge 2500 litres of storage if need be. Getting the most from the interior is easy too, with the flexible seating system letting you fold the rear bench, move it forward or remove it altogether.
Twin sliding doors are fitted as standard and the raised seating makes it easy to get in and out of. Equipment levels are sparse though - air conditioning isn’t fitted as standard - and the rear windows don't open fully either. Rear passengers might not like the ride either which can get quite bumpy as the Qubo’s tall body leans into corners and pitches under braking and acceleration.
The Qubo does redeem itself in town, with its 10.5 metre turning circle providing lots of manoeuvrability for tight turns and parking. The sliding doors also come into their own, allowing the Qubo to be parked in tight spaces, without worrying about the side doors being banged against cars parked close by.
There are two engines to choose from - a 1.4 petrol with 72PS and a 1.3 diesel, with either 80PS or 95PS. Both get a five-speed manual gearbox that provides short, positive gear changes while a good Dualogic automated manual is available as an option for the 80PS diesel.
The 1.4 petrol provides up to 40.9mpg and decent performance, although it's the 90PS four-cylinder diesel that provide the best balance, returning up to 70.6mpg and giving it a bit more oomph. Both the petrol and diesels are fine for motorway cruising, even if they're somewhat vocal above 50mph.
Given its low price and even lower running costs, the Qubo is an affordable MPV with some likeable qualities. It will appeal to those who want a practical car with an upright driving position and easy access. The boxy nature also makes it a relatively straightforward proposition for a wheel chair conversion.