Fiat Tipo - Quo vadis Fiacie i europejska motoryzacjo? TEST PL / Garść przemyśleń

Summary

The speaker discusses the evolution of the automotive market, lamenting the disappearance of affordable yet practical cars like the Fiat Tipo. They recount how once, a variety of cars were available at different price points, but now, due to EU regulations and the push for premium features, cars are becoming more expensive. The Fiat Tipo, once a budget-friendly option, has seen a significant price increase, making it less accessible. The speaker also touches on the rise of Chinese brands filling the gap left by European manufacturers who are abandoning the budget car segment.

Takeaways

• 🚗 The Fiat Tipo was once a budget-friendly car that offered great value for money, but its price has significantly increased over the years.
• 📈 The European automotive industry has seen a shift towards more expensive models, leaving a gap in the market for affordable cars.
• 💸 The cost of the Fiat Tipo has risen dramatically from its initial price, making it less accessible to budget-conscious consumers.
• 🛠️ The speaker's personal experience with an unauthorized BMW service highlights issues with the cost and availability of car repairs.
• 🚘 The script laments the disappearance of older, more affordable car models that were once refreshed and sold alongside newer versions.
• 🌍 The rise in car prices is attributed to EU regulations on CO2 emissions and the mandatory inclusion of safety features.
• 🚗 The Fiat Tipo is praised for its practicality, spacious interior, and large trunk, even in its more basic configurations.
• 🛣️ The Tipo's performance is described as adequate for city driving and reasonably quiet up to 100 km/h, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 11.5 seconds.
• 💡 The car's fuel efficiency is noted, with an average consumption of around 7.3 liters per 100 km in mixed driving conditions.
• 🔧 Despite being a budget car, the Tipo is said to have few issues with corrosion or excessive complexity, though there are concerns about the 1.4 petrol engine's oil consumption.
• 🌿 The script expresses concern that the European automotive market is leaving behind the needs of ordinary people who cannot afford premium or electric cars.

Q & A

What happened to the speaker's wife's car?

The speaker's wife's car had a broken suspension spring, which led to it being taken to an unauthorized service specializing in BMW for repairs.

How much did the repairs for the speaker's wife's car cost?

The repairs cost 4000 zł, which included replacing upper springs, rear shock absorbers, wheel bearings, and some minor front suspension parts.

What does the speaker remember about car dealerships around 2009?

The speaker remembers that around 2009, car dealerships offered a wide range of vehicles at different price points, quality levels, and power segments. He also recalls that brands like Skoda and Opel had policies of selling refreshed older models alongside new ones.

What was special about the Fiat Tipo when it was introduced?

The Fiat Tipo was introduced as a very practical, budget-friendly car that did not try to be anything more than what it was. It was well-received by private buyers, taxi drivers, and car rental companies.

What was the initial price of the Fiat Tipo when it was first released?

The initial price of the Fiat Tipo was around 40,000 zł when it was first released, and later it was 50,000 zł in 2021.

What changes does the speaker notice in the car market by 2023?

By 2023, the speaker notices that popular brands like Opel and Skoda have significantly increased their prices, and the variety of engines offered has decreased. He also notes that the Fiat Tipo, which was once budget-friendly, now costs much more, starting from 120,000 zł to 130,000 zł.

What is the speaker's opinion on the current state of the European car market?

The speaker expresses concern about the increasing prices of cars and the lack of budget-friendly options. He also mentions that European brands are creating a large gap in the market, which Chinese brands are now trying to fill.

What does the speaker think about the MG ZS car he tested?

The speaker thinks the MG ZS is quite a good car, especially considering its price. He suggests it could appeal to customers who once would have chosen a Fiat Tipo but now find the Tipo too expensive.

What are some of the features of the Fiat Tipo that the speaker likes?

The speaker likes the practicality, spacious interior, large trunk, and the fact that it is a simple car with a low price. He also appreciates the Tipo's Coming Home and Living Home functions, despite it being a budget car.

What are some of the issues the speaker has with the current Fiat Tipo?

The speaker points out that the current Fiat Tipo is more expensive than before, and it no longer offers the same budget-friendly options. He also mentions that it lacks some of the charm and practicality of the earlier models.

What does the speaker predict for the future of the car market?

The speaker predicts that if current trends continue, brands like Fiat may end up like Lancia, which is barely being kept alive. He expresses sadness at the thought of losing such a historically significant brand.