Northern Italy and the Fiat Ulysse

In addition to the Volkswagen Passat Wagon, another vehicle that we rented for traveling about the Cecina area was the Fiat Ulysse. Although not in the same league as the Passat, at least as far as handling, the Ulysse made up for some of the difference in its ability to haul around as many as 7 people.

The shape of things to come?

I am, once again, reminded of the similarities in the current U.S. auto market to the market as it has existed in Europe for the better part of two decades. Prices of fuel are high – both for gas and diesel. With the greater efficiencies of diesel – especially for midsize and larger cars as well as for trucks, SUVs and vans, these vehicles, in some shape or form, could find their way to the American market in the next few years.

Two things that differentiate the Ulysse from current mini-vans in the United States (such as the Chrysler Town and Country) are the engine and transmission. The engine is a 4-cylinder diesel, and it’s mated to a 5-speed manual transaxle.

Inside, Fiat has managed to accommodate a total of 7 passengers. Aside from the front two buckets with a small aisle in between, there are 3 center seats (in a 2 plus 1 configuration), that fold and then flip forward, allowing the 2 rear seat passengers easier ingress and egress.

The ride is decent enough for a small van and the manual transmission is absolutely necessary – especially with a full compliment of passengers and attendant gear – to propel the Ulysse up and down the hills of Tuscany.

The Bottom Line

While not the most exciting vehicle to drive, the Ulysse serves its purpose and, like most current Fiats, the overall styling is much sportier than most small vans for sale in the U.S. market.