FIAT Stilo Multi Wagon Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Fiat made a last try to revive the sales of the Stilo lineup in Europe after the facelifted version introduced in 2003, and gave the car a last refresh for the 2006 model year.

Between 2001 and the facelifted version of the Stilo lineup, Fiat sold about 350,000 units of this model in all three forms: three- and five-door hatchback and station wagon. That was well below expectations, and the automaker tried a last push for the lineup for the 2006 model year, slightly improving the car’s trim levels. In addition, Fiat had to upgrade the engines’ lineup to comply with the Euro4 emission standards, which became mandatory starting in January of that year. While some of the powerplants were already compatible, others were not and needed an upgrade. Furthermore, the safety package for the entire lineup was consistent to make its customers feel safe. The station wagon, called the Stilo Multi Wagon, was also updated.

At the front, the automaker installed different grilles depending on the vehicle’s grade. The lower versions had a black slatted one, while the top-spec Stilo Multi Wagon boasted a silver slat in the middle. Regardless of the version, all were fitted with clear-lenses headlights, which were available with Xenon lighting and corner-mounted turn signals. The lower bumper had two horizontal slats stretched from side to side, while underneath the apron, Fiat added a lip spoiler.

From its profile, the 2006 Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon had the same clear-lenses turn signal lamps on the front fenders. Then, depending on the vehicle’s grade, it boasted body-colored door handles and mirror caps, plus same-shade rubber protections on the door panels. At the same time, the lower two grades were fitted with black plastic moldings. Fiat also included a new range of 15- or 16-inch light alloy wheels for the vehicle.  Out back, the car manufacturer created a new tailgate that integrated part of the taillights, which were extended from the quarter panels. Finally, at the top of the car, the car manufacturer added a pair of rails.

Inside, the high-mounted sets made the front passengers feel like they were in an MPV. Fronting the driver was an enhanced instrument cluster filled with white dials and red needles. Below them, the automaker installed an LCD that showed data from the car’s onboard computer. All versions were fitted with a stereo as standard, but customers could also opt for an advanced infotainment system for those times, which included satellite navigation, a CD stereo, and an MP3 player. The car benefited from power windows for all doors and even a retractable one for the tailgate. In addition, to make the vehicle feel roomier, Fiat added a moonroof as well. As expected, the trunk’s space didn’t change. It remained at the same values of 510 liters (18 cu-ft) to 1,480 liters (52.27 cu-ft).

Under the hood, the automaker installed a choice of gasoline and turbodiesel engines paired with a five-speed manual that sent all the oomph to the front wheels.

Fiat launched the Stilo lineup in 2001 as a replacement for the Bravo/Brava lineup, and two years later, it completed the range with a station wagon version named Multi Wagon.

The Italian car manufacturer considered that customers didn’t need a more spacious vehicle than the regular, five-door version of the Stilo. Soon after the car’s launch, it noticed that a family of four needed more luggage space for toys, bicycles, and other children-specific stuff. As a result, in late 2002, the automaker introduced the Multi Wagon for the 2003 model year. In less than twelve months, Fiat sold around 50,000 units of the new version, making the company’s management happy. The nameplate was a mix between the “Multi” from the “Multi-Purpose Vehicle” (MPV) and the Station Wagon. And it wasn’t too far of a stretch since the car could serve both purposes. It was spacious enough to accommodate a family of four on long travels or five for short jaunts, plus their belongings stuffed in the large trunk.

From the outside, the 2003 Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon showed the same front fascia as its five-door hatchback brother. It featured rectangular-shaped headlights, available with Xenon, and corner-mounted turn signals. They flanked a rectangular grille fitted with two horizontal slats. The Fiat’s badge took center stage and was surrounded by a silver ring of laurels. Lower, on the bumper, the automaker placed black rubber stripes on the outer corners to protect it. Underneath, the Stilo Multi Wagon had a different styling than the rest of the range since it had a center air intake crossed by two horizontal slats extended from side to side.

While the car shared its underpinnings and some body panels with its five-door sibling, behind the B-post, it was a completely different vehicle than its siblings. Its rear doors featured straight-up pillars, and behind them, the automaker placed a third row of wide windows next to the trunk’s space. Finally, out back, the slightly tilted forward tailgate resembled the one installed in the five-door hatchback version of the Stilo but featured horizontal taillights extended from the quarter panels instead of small vertical ones as on the rest of its stablemates. Furthermore, the rear overhang was longer and cut deeper to make room for the tall tailgate, leading to a lower loading edge.

Inside, the front area was identical to the one provided by the five-door Stilo. Fiat offered the Multi Wagon in a choice of three ranges: Actual, Active, and Dynamic. The automaker installed two cloth trims for the cabin and two leather trims (beige and anthracite). From the technological point of view, it could be equipped with a seven-inch color screen for the infotainment system, featuring satellite navigation, a CD stereo that could play MP3 files, and even WAP internet access. The system also allowed voice commands. In the back, the automaker installed a split-folding bench seat that could expand the trunk space from 510 liters (18 cu-ft) to 1,480 liters (52.27 cu-ft).

Under the hood, the Stilo Multi Wagon was available with a choice of two gasoline and two turbo diesel engines. Power ranged between 80 PS (79 hp) and 133 PS (131 hp), and all versions were paired with either a five- or a six-speed manual. In terms of safety, the Stilo Multi Wagon was advanced for its times, featuring standard ABS, EBD, and ASR.