CROSS PURPOSES (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

Introductionword count: 48

Production of Fiat's 'Type 356' Tipo hatch was finished off between 2020 and 2023 by this crossover-inspired 'Cross' version, which aimed to combine lifestyle looks with the option of the brand's Hybrid 48V engine. It's an unusual confection but at the right price, it could have some appeal.

Modelsword count: 8

5dr hatch (petrol - 1.0, 1.5 48V Hybrid)

Historyword count: 196

Cutting-edge hybrid technology might well price the used family hatchback you have in mind out of reach. But possibly not if the car you have in mind from the 2020-2023 period is a Fiat Tipo. In SUV-style Cross form, this model can offer you a very clever electrified engine indeed. And a bit of a crossover vibe into the bargain. High technology and lifestyle looks have never previously been things you'd have associated with this sensible Fiat. Tipo history goes all the way back to 1988 and the 'Type 356' modern-era version first went on sale in ordinary form in 2015. A far-reaching facelift was introduced in 2020, with the range initially restructured around a single 1.0-litre petrol engine, which was initially available in this Cross hatchback model that arrived at about the same time. In early 2022, the line-up was slimmed down to a five-door hatch body shape. And a 1.5-litre Hybrid 48V petrol engine option has been added to the range for Cross customers. By 2023, the Cross Hybrid version was the only one available, with a plusher 'Garmin Edition' version at the top of the range. Sales ceased at the end of 2023.

What You Getword count: 206

You'd certainly notice this Cross variant as being a little different from the rather unassuming ordinary Tipo hatch model. It'll have to be a hatch because the UK importers never offered an estate body style here for Cross variants. Which is a pity because that estate variant suited the Cross body styling package quite nicely. This hatch version does its best though. Thanks to the Cross package, this variant stands 70mm higher than an ordinary Tipo and gets silver plastic skid plate-style panels at the front and rear - and along the bottom of the side sills. Roof rails also make the kit list, as do smart 17-inch alloy wheels. Not as much was done inside to set this more lifestyle-orientated version apart from humbler Tipo models. So as with those, you get a 7-inch central touchscreen (though this one's fitted out with navigation) and a 7-inch full-colour digital instrument cluster screen too. Hard plastics dominate around the cabin but there's a pleasingly styled 3-spoke wheel and automatic climate control. In the back, there's a bit more room than is normal for a family hatchback of this sort, thanks to the Tipo's boxy shape. And there's a decently sized 440-litre boot, extendable by 60:40-split rear seats.

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