Fiat Croma

Performance

1.9-litre diesels offer speed, refinement and economy and are the best bet. There are weaker and stronger engines available but either direction will lose you the power or economy.

Driving

Plenty of body-roll when cornering bu it's a fairly smooth ride. Not a car for someone who enjoys their driving.

Feel

Diesels cruise quietly and smoothly and the petrol only growls at higher speeds.

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Price

Low running costs and fairly cheap at entry-level, but depreciation is likely to be a problem, especially with the bigger engines.

Quality

Materials aren't particularly impressive but the Croma is likely to be reliable.

Safety

Seven airbags come as standard with only rear side airbags on the options list. Driver and front-passenger airbags are dual-stage. Otherwise, traction and stability systems are also standard

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Space

Plenty of space for passengers front and back. Boot is a decent size but high lip makes loading harder than it needs to be.

Equipment

Aircon, CD player and alloys as standard. Climate control and full-length sunroof at higher specs.

Alternatives

Ford Mondeo Estate

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Pros

Good space and engines.

Cons

Drive is poor.

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