Fiat Bravo II (198) (2007 – 2010)

Reliability score : 7.2/10

The Fiat Bravo II (Type 198), designed by Centro Stile Fiat in collaboration with Magna Steyr, has the heavy task of succeeding the Stilo. Launched in 2007, it marks a return to a curvy Latin style and significantly improves perceived quality and reliability compared to its predecessor. Positioned in the C-segment (compact hatchbacks), it stands out with an excellent price/equipment ratio and a generous trunk (400 liters). While the technical base (C platform) is an evolution of the Stilo's, the T-Jet (turbo) gasoline engines introduced on this model bring fresh appeal to the brand. The 2007-2010 period corresponds to Phase 1, before the slight facelift in late 2010. Overall rating: An endearing and affordable compact car, whose mechanical reliability is generally good, but marred by perip

✅ Strengths

Very successful exterior design that ages well
High-performance T-Jet gasoline engines with a very reliable block
Generous trunk volume for the category (400 liters)
Very attractive used price/equipment ratio
Sound and safe road handling

⚠️ Weaknesses

Very fragile M32 manual gearbox (GM origin) (bearings)
Automatic climate control mixing micro-motors that break (clicking behind the dashboard, very expensive repair as it requires removing the dashboard)
Capricious Blue&Me multimedia system (Bluetooth/USB module that burns out and makes the odometer flash)
Mediocre rear visibility
Soundproofing could be improved on the 1.9 diesel versions

🎯 Verdict

The Fiat Bravo II is a compact car that is often wrongly shunned, making it an excellent used bargain. The 1.4 T-Jet (120 and 150 hp) gasoline engines offer remarkable drivability and the engine block itself is indestructible. However, the purchase must be conditional on a rigorous inspection of two black spots: the M32 gearbox (whining) and the automatic climate control (clicking of the mixing flaps). If these elements have been replaced or are in perfect condition, it is a highly recommendable purchase. Favor a 1.4 T-Jet 120 hp version in Elegance or Sport trim, with a clear maintenance history.

Common issues

Panne du turbocompresseur (moteurs 1.4 T-Jet) High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 800 – 1 800 €

Vérifier l'absence de sifflement excessif ou de perte de puissance.

Usure ou rupture prématurée de la courroie de distribution et/ou de la pompe à eau High

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km ou 5 ans (si non respect de l'intervalle)

💶 600 – 1 200 € (préventif, bien plus si rupture)

Respecter scrupuleusement l'intervalle de remplacement préconisé.

Problèmes électriques et électroniques (capteurs, lève-vitres, Body Computer) Medium

🔧 Variable, souvent après 80 000 km

💶 150 – 600 €

Tester tous les équipements électriques et électroniques avant l'achat.

Usure des composants de suspension (silent-blocs, rotules, amortisseurs) Medium

🔧 70 000 – 120 000 km

💶 200 – 500 €

Écouter les bruits anormaux et vérifier l'usure des pneus.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing belt	£500 – 1 000
Clutch	£750 – 1 400
Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.