I purchased my marea second-hand when I was looking for a replacement car after becoming disabled due to a stroke. I needed a car that could accomodate my wheelchair and/or electric scooter.
I came across it by chance while visiting a dealer to view a different make of car recommended by the disabled driver's association.
I was attracted by the drop-down tailgate which allowed the use of ramps to get the scooter in. It also makes getting my wheelchair in and out much easier than my old car. The inbuilt anchor points enable the scooter to be securely tied down for safety.
The scooter easily fits in with the rear seats folded down, with enough room for additional luggage, shopping, etc.
The loss of the rear seats is rarely a problem as most of the time it is only two of us travelling. It is possible to get the scooter in with the small seat upright, but takes more precise positioning. When all the rear seats are needed the boot easily accomodates my self-propelled wheelchair.
I have never regretted buying this car, it is perfect for my needs and I would highly recommend it to other disabled people.
Edit: I agree with the opinions of all the people who have already written about this car and are probably more able to comment on the technical aspects. As I no longer drive due to my condition my opinion was only meant to give an extra perspective. It was written to give additional information for disabled people as this car was never mentioned in any information I read when searching for a suitable vehicle.
The title did say the opinion was written for disabled people. ;-)
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
Perfect review for me! I'm looking at a Marea right now, and was desperate to know if my mum's scooter could fit in the back with ease! Thanks for the review :o)
Buenosdias 22.11.2003 13:23
Nice op, good to know that some cars are very practical. I had one of these up until very recently and liked most things about it,just be warned that parts are expensive.
Nar 28.10.2003 11:11
Sorry about the rating, but any "Weekend," edition in the Fiat range is an estate in the UK. Therefore you need to talk more about the car in terms of load capacity as well as practical features and disadvs if any. N (if you re-edit Ill re-edit.)
Oct 28th, 2003
(Nov 8th, 2003)
exceptional by (5%):
very helpful by (10%):
helpful by (65%):
somewhat helpful by (20%):
