At the Bravo's launch we were encouraged to sample the company's latest 1.4-litre turbocharged engine, which was also combined with the Bravo's “Sport” package, which includes a stiffer chassis, racy alloys and aggressive tyres. Fiat's ploy paid off, of course, and we came away rather impressed with how much fun one could have in the new Bravo. Now, though, it's time to check out the bread-and-butter stuff, the basic nonturbo 1.4-litre model (even if it is in top “Emotion” specification). Will it still be as tasty without all the garnish? The engine is more or less the same as the one that powers the Grande Punto Sport, a 90hp normally aspirated 1.4-litre, which does a decent if unspectacular job of hauling the 1,200kg Bravo along. 0100km/h takes 12.5 seconds and top speed is an acceptable 179km/h, which is about right for the class. While it's not an engine that loves to be revved, it is capable of generating reasonable overtaking pep if you're willing to endure the vocal protests.
Sadly, the vague and notchy gearbox isn't nearly so cooperative and the handling is a lot less engaging in this version than it was on our early Sport models. The steering is quick but it lacks bite and feedback, while the ride quality is actually worse than in the Sport, with poor damping over rough surfaces making the Bravo feel crashy and unsettled at times. While we journalists love to use the old “Less is More” cliché whenever possible, in this case it doesn't apply. The basic 1.4-litre Bravo is a bit of a disappointment so we'd suggest you save up the extra two grand for the 1.4 T-Jet Sport or simply go looking elsewhere.
INFO
Fiat Bravo 1.4 Emotion
Engine: 1.4-litre 4-cyl., 90hp, 128Nm
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Acceleration: 0–100km/h: 12.5 seconds
Top speed: 179km/h
Economy: 6.7L/100 km
CO2: 158g/km
Boot capacity: 365 litres
Weight: 1,205kg
Price: €22,495
Price as tested: €22,945
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