Fiat Tipo hatchback - Practicality & boot space

Having established that the cheapest models make the most sense, practicality is the one category in which the Fiat Tipo really shines. With entry-level models being priced at supermini levels, this is an inexpensive way to get a car with more usable space than a Vauxhall Astra. It’s easy to get in and out of and rear passenger space is among the best in class, while it also has an impressively large boot and plenty of storage space in the passenger compartment, making it a great day-to-day car for families.

Fiat Tipo interior space & storage

Sitting in the Tipo driver’s seat, you’re immediately greeted by an excellent view out. The seats are also impressively comfortable, especially on top models that have adjustable lumbar support. Overall, there’s 12 litres of storage space in the interior, which includes a large glovebox, a deep bin in the armrest, as well as well-sized door bins in both the front and back.

There’s plenty of space in the back seats, so fitting a couple of adults in there shouldn’t be much of a problem (although taller passengers may find headroom a little tight). The rear doors also open quite wide, which will make fitting a child seat easy. The now-discontinued estate model has more rear passenger headroom, so this may be worth considering if you regularly carry adults in the back.

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Boot space

This is another area where the Tipo excels. The 440-litre boot puts it a fair way ahead of rivals like the SEAT Leon and miles ahead of the Ford Focus. Granted, the Skoda Octavia is more generous with its boot space, but 440 litres is still impressive.

Fold down the rear seats (which split 60:40 as standard) and you get a sloping load space, which is a little disappointing. There’s also a fairly significant loading lip, which can make it difficult to haul heavy items in and out. Choosing the estate model sees boot space grow by 110 litres and also gets you an extra storage compartment under the boot floor.