CROSS HATCHING(some text hidden)

By Jonathan Crouch

Ten Second Review word count: 35

Fiat Tipo Cross combines lifestyle looks with the option of the brand's latest - and very sophisticated - Hybrid 48V engine. It's an unusual confection but at the right price, it could have some appeal.

Background word count: 152

Cutting-edge hybrid technology might well price the family hatchback you have in mind out of reach. But possibly not if the car you have in mind is a Fiat Tipo. In SUV-style Cross form (the only variant now offered), this model can offer you a very clever electrified engine indeed. And a bit of a crossover vibe into the bargain. High technology and lifestyle looks have never previously been things you'd have associated with this sensible Fiat. Tipo history goes all the way back to 1988 and this current version has been on sale since 2015. A far-reaching facelift was introduced in 2020, with the range initially restructured around a single 1.0-litre petrol engine. More recently in early 2022, the line-up was slimmed down to a five-door hatch body shape. And a 1.5-litre Hybrid 48V petrol engine wedded to DDCT auto transmission is now the only option the range for Tipo customers.

Driving Experience word count: 238

Obviously, this Cross model's SUV demeanour is only for show; even light trails are really beyond its remit. And on tarmac, the smart styling won't disguise the fact that this is some way from being the sharpest handling car in its sector, but we reckon it's close enough to the class leaders to satisfy most potential buyers. This Cross Hybrid 48V variant's 1.5-litre unit puts out 130hp and 240Nm of torque (rest to 62mph in 9.3s) and is mated to a 7-speed DDCT dual-clutch auto transmission. The propulsion system includes a built-in 48 volt 15kW (20hp) electric motor delivering 55Nm of torque, which can propel the wheels even when the internal combustion engine is turned off. The Tipo's roadgoing demeanour has been set up to favour relaxed comfort rather than any kind of dynamic drive. You can see why: this is, after all, a car designed primarily around the needs of buyers in developing countries who simply want to get comfortably from A to B. So there's no trick suspension for fancy ride quality, torque vectoring for classy cornering or ridiculously powerful engine options that hardly anyone will buy. Where Turin has had modern carry-over technology it can use - the engines, the modular platform, the Uconnect infotainment technology - then that's been thrown into the development mix, but the over-riding priority here has been in the creation of the best possible car for the lowest possible price.