I don't recommend buying a FIAT, but it has not been as bad as pictured.

We bought this car in 1999 with AC, Sony stereo Power Steering, it seemed a bit of luxury but was a perfect choice for a family of 5 adults. I just want to highlight that FIAT is not that bad as the market pictures it and I mean not only the product but also the after sales service & maintenance. I believe the after sales care in a country like India, where we are still far away from what is called PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, the onus of care/maintenance lies more with the owner of the car. Basically, the owner has to do things other than just pulling out the money from his pocket & then expect everything else to turn out right in time. Owners have to 1) Educate themseleves about typical checks and routine services, parts in their car. 2) Not be ignorant of any symptom the car is showing 3) Drive a car with more responsibility towards it, your family & the environment rather than use it as a tool for ego-boosters or mood-reflectors. 4) Be patient & peristent towards afer sales (its people like us who are doing their jobs just like we do), moreover its the underpaid mechanics/supervisors who have to do multiple jobs to make a life. We Indians want American Cars but forget that typical American washes, services & does basic repaires him self to save on after sales maintenance costs.Has been VFM, Wonderful fuel economy, Powerful HVAC, Comfortable seats 5Ground Clearance, Resale Value, Outdated Design