Hey Folks,

I currently have a Fiat 500 (after having had a Panda MK II). With having just had a baby daughter I'm thinking about moving to a Qubo. I like the space and practicality and I've found a dealer who'll more or less do a straight swap with me on my car.

My 500:

2012 - White
Just been fully serviced and had new rear shocks and new front pads and discs. The wiring loom going into the boot was repaired. It's a Pop model with 129 000 km on the clock. Average selling price in Ireland is around the €7000-7500 price range. Tax is until 2018 and it has a valid NCT (MOT) until 2018. Petrol 1.2 litre.

The Qubo:

It's a 2011 model with 96000 km on the clock. It's a 1.2 diesel and seems decently spec'd with air conditioning, heated mirrors etc. It'll have a new NCT from the dealer (they are a main Fiat dealer).

I'd been watching the car for a while and over the past 5 weeks there seems to be no interest in it. I cheekily rang the garage and said I'd be interested in a straight swap. The Qubo is divisive whereas the 500 is popular.
They said they'd be interested, dependent upon the condition of my car so I'm going to see them tomorrow morning

Everyone is trying to talk me out of this as they say I'll regret it as the Qubo is ugly, has no resale value etc. I'm not too worried about that as I plan to drive it until it's uneconomical to repair and with having a baby daughter it'll be practical.

Any feedback?

Go for it providing it floats your vote. Qubo is a great little versatile motor, not, like all cars, without its problems, but still great. Just be aware of the DPF problems on diesels, Re mileage you do..................
Cheers Qube O...

Hi Liam. Firstly ,lets see if the garage agrees with the swap. If they do ask yourself why?
How many owners?
The Qubo is a love it or hate it car. It's very practical with plenty of space, the engine is normally very good. Top mounts are a problem,so you could ask if they have been changed.
It's not a boy racer car, but having a baby, that should not be a problem for you.
Obviously have a good test drive before you commit.