Fiat has added a new diesel engine to the Bravo range to replace the 1.9-litre MultiJet unit. The new motor is more powerful and cleaner than before and will replace the older unit across the Fiat range.

Developing 165bhp and 266lb.ft, the new engine produces fifteen more horsepower and 41lb.ft more torque than the outgoing motor. Combined cycle fuel economy is better by 3mpg at 53mpg and carbon dioxide emissions are 139g/km. A diesel particulate filter, exhaust gas recirculation system and lower compression ratio ensure the engine complies with Euro 5 emissions regulations that come into force in 2009. Nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, which have been linked with respiratory problems, are also reduced.

With the new engine Fiat claims the Bravo will do 134mph and 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds. Those figures represent a 4mph increase in top speed and 0.8 second reduction in 0-62mph time compared with the 1.9-litre model. The Bravo 2.0 MultiJet Dynamic costs £16,885 on-the-road, rising to £17,155 for the Sport version. Expect to see the new engine appearing in other Fiat models in 2009.

John Lambert - 2 Dec 2008