Im new here, so be kind. I'm looking at replacing my dad's nice, but now knackered Tempra L-reg, which is losing the fight after 130,000 miles. The mareas are cheap, not bad looking, and I like the way that they are slightly unique. We need a big saloon as a load lugger and something to take the family on holiday. I'm pro FIAT, and I only look at the marea, as we need something cheap to haul, and It would look stupid for a family of 4 going on holiday for a week down south in the seicento sporting. so. is it any good? any faults, niggles , costs, changes etc. thanks. P.S has anyone got rough costs for basic parts - brakes, timing chains etc.

Well I can only give you my opinion, but yep they are good. I have a weekender 2.4JTD. The ride, handling, and general drive is excellent, the diesel engine is smooth and quiet and economical. We drove down to London at the weekedn and got about 52 MPG not bad for a high performance diesel. The load space is great, we have had 4 adults, and associated skiing and snowboard gear in with no problems.

I would certainly recommend the estate, not sure how big the saloon is? As for prices thay are cheap to buy, and as alot of the parts are common to the bravo/brava the parts don't seem to bad. Watch out for cam belt, I got the dealer to put a new one on mine as art of the deal, but if buying private you may need to budget for getting one done unless you are handy enough to do it yourself.

The only down side I have found with the car is that the electrics can be tempramental, but i think that is just a fiat thing.