The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon claims a comprehensive equipment package and a host of features that have always been the exclusive preserve of higher segment cars - until now. An example is the opportunity to customise the car's responses to everyday controls by means of the My Car setting system. When a driver enters a tunnel, the headlights will come on automatically under the action of a dusk sensor. The first drops of a sudden shower will activate the windscreen wiper via a rain sensor. Parking manoeuvres are also made easier by a parking sensor. The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon equipment range is complemented by some exclusive options: a segmented electric window (Sky Window), opening rear window, CONNECT, ride memory and Xenon headlights.

>>> opening rear window

The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon rear window opens independently of the tailgate to aid loading and unloading operations. A switch is pressed above the number-plate lights and the window opens. At this point the window is hand lifted upwards.

By pressing the boot key on the remote control twice in rapid succession, the rear window can be opened having to press the switch located above the number-plate lights.

>>> my car: customising your car

Automotive technology goes electronic and becomes reconfigurable: in the same way as a computer or mobile phone. We are all used to configuring our electronic organisers, video recorders, answering machines, radio alarms and CD players. But the idea of choosing the way our car responds to our everyday habits seems quite alien. And certainly more interesting. Just as our relationship with the car - an object like no other - is more interesting.

This is the reason why, a few days after you buy it, every Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon will lose all trace of anonymity and standardisation that make it similar to all other Fiat Stilos. And each individual user will see it as 'my car'. From an individual viewpoint, the instrument panel will speak my language and will only show me the information that affects me. The car will react to remote control commands by opening and closing only doors that I want to open and close. At the press of a button, it will welcome me by adjusting seats, steering wheel and rear view mirrors to my needs.

The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon is easy to customise because all operations can be carried out via the panel to the left of the steering wheel and a button on top of the right column switch. This interface is fast and intuitive to use, but also innovative with a comprehensive choice of settings. The MODE key can be used to access the setup menu, that may be scrolled by pressing UP and DOWN keys marked by the familiar triangle symbols. Once you have chosen the submenu screen you want and decided on the best setting, simply press the MODE key for two seconds and your choice will be confirmed. 

My Car also allows you to activate and regulate the speed limit; choose the dusk sensor sensitivity setting; opt to repeat radio information on the multifunction display; set the time and date; activate Trip computer B that collects and displays data on a single trip. MODE can also be used to select a language for messages on the display and measurement units for distances, fuel consumption and outdoor temperature. You can also adjust the volume of confirmation beeps emitted when keys are pressed and also the various acoustic signals. The display can also show the date of the next service.

On cars with CONNECT, the menu items are displayed on the relevant screen, except for the speed limit and dusk sensor sensitivity options, that are permanently displayed on the multifunctional display.

>>> electrically controlled seats with memory

When aboard the Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon, all you have to do is press a key to move seat, steering wheel and door mirrors to the ideal position for the person sitting in the driver's seat at that moment. This is made possible by the Set-up Memory, a device that does away with time-wasting and frustration because it can save up to three configurations. This enables several people (your family, for example) to set out under ideal conditions of comfort and safety at all times.

Once you have adjusted the position of the seats and two door mirrors, you can save the setting by pressing one of the three keys at the side of the front bench for about three seconds. An electronic control unit now receives the settings and emits a beep to confirm they have been saved.

This ideal position can be associated with a numbered key only with the car at a standstill and the key turned to the first click (MAR). This facility prevents children left on their own in the car from altering the memories. Drivers call up their own settings by simply pressing the allocated key, even with the car in motion, provided speed is lower than 10 km/h.

The memory function can also be used to save the right door mirror angle used during parking manoeuvres. Adjustment takes place with the car at a standstill and reverse engaged. All you have to do is press the key selected for the ideal driving position. The stored setting is called up whenever reverse is engaged. If no seat or mirror customisation has been saved, the system still tilts the mirror at a preset angle to improve visibility while manoeuvring. 
The rear view mirror goes back to its initial arrangement 10 seconds after reverse has been released or when the speed exceeds 10 km/h, regardless of the speed engaged.

The set-up memory option also includes an antipanic function: seat forward motion is locked when any seat memory or adjustment key is pressed.

>>> xenon headlamps

Excellent visibility at all times, even in the dark is an important preventive safety factor. The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon may therefore be optionally equipped with xenon headlights, that offer an improved light emission quality and excellent performance in all weathers. 

The benefits over normal halogen headlights are easy to enumerate: light intensity doubles (from 1500 to 3000 lumens); efficiency increases from 25 to 85 lumen per Watt and hours of duration also increase (from 1500 to 3000). Xenon headlights also consume less energy and distribute the light beam more effectively. Because they emit a shade that is closer to white light, they also ensure improved visibility even though the level of illumination remains the same. 

Due to the improved performance offered by the system (brighter, more far-reaching light), xenon headlights are combined with an automatic ride corrector to prevent the headlights dazzling oncoming vehicles and keep the lit area constant for improved driving comfort. The device cuts in automatically to compensate for static car changes (due to changing load on the axles) and also dynamic changes (caused by acceleration and braking). 

>>> rain sensor

Excellent visibility at all times is an important passive safety factor. The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon therefore comes with a rain sensor that keeps the windscreen clean at all times, even when the weather is bad. 

The system is applied to the upper part of the passenger compartment, behind the central rear view mirror and automatically activates the windscreen wiper and adjusts sweep rate to rain intensity. It is activated by moving the right column switch to the first position (intermittence). Its operation is based on the principle of refracting infrared beams through the glass and raindrops. The optical part of the sensor (lens) sends infrared light to the sensor. The lens reflects it and sends it back to the sensor. Because the light energy sent to the windscreen is constant, the value recorded at the time of reception falls in proportion to the increase in the quantity of water and other impurities on the glass. The change in the signal is processed by the electronic part of the sensor that activates the appropriate sweep rate. Because a wet glass surface disturbs the human eye more by night than by day, the sensor also adjusts windscreen wiper activation on the basis of environmental light. It also recognises the water streaks caused by worn blades and compensates for the effects of ageing on the windscreen and the electronic system. In specific situations, it also adopts special sweep cycles: for example, when the windscreen is marked by individual drops or impurities are present on the surface (salt deposits, dirt etc.).
Rain sensor sensitivity may be modified by adjusting a three-position selector on the right switch. If the engine is turned off with the system activated, the system is deactivated automatically. To reactivate, when the engine is turned on you can choose to move the switch to zero and then back to the first position or alter sensor sensitivity. 

The system indicates reactivation by controlling one wiper sweep even if the glass is dry. 

After operating the washer pump, the sensor is activated automatically for the time required to remove the drops that have fallen on the window. 

>>> dusk sensors

The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon is equipped with headlights that come on automatically as darkness falls or as you drive into a tunnel. They are controlled by a sensor installed on the front window that works on the principle of infra-red ray refraction. The device measures exterior light intensity and compares it with a value set by the driver to activate the Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon's exterior lights in accordance with the chosen setting. The sensor is able to assess brightness above the car and in the direction of motion to detect the presence of tunnels or main roads. 

To activate the Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon's dusk sensors, simply move the left column switch to 'automatic'. This enables simultaneous activation of the side lights and dipped beams on the basis of external brightness. The user can adjust sensor sensitivity via the control panel by selecting a value from 1 to 3 using keys on the control panel. The setting may also be adjusted with the car in motion. 

When the sensor controls automatic light activation, the user can also operate the foglight and rear foglight. The foglights turn off automatically together with the other lights controlled by the sensor: first the dipped beams, then the side lights after 10 seconds. When the sensor is activated, the driver can only use the light flasher. To activate the fixed beams, a wheel on the left switch must be set to 'dipped beams' and the main beams must be turned on.

For safety reasons, if the sensor does not work, the side lights and dipped beams are turned on independently of exterior brightness while the instrument panel indicates a fault. Motorists are therefore able to deactivate the automatic device and turn on the lights manually. The dusk sensor system does not detect the presence of fog and the motorist must therefore turn on the lights if visibility is poor. 

>>> parking sensor

When parking, some obstacles located behind the car may be outside the driver's field of view or the driver may simply not be able to calculate the distance to a car parked behind.

This is a job for the Parking Assistance system, which comes into play whenever the ignition is turned on and reverse is engaged. The system was produced for the Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon and consists of a control unit with a CAN network interface, four ultrasound sensors inserted in the rear bumper (two to either side of the bumpers and two beside the number plate) - and a buzzer. The four detectors cover the rear side areas of the car (from a distance of less than 60 cm) and the rear median areas (from a distance of less than 150 cm). Let's take a look at how this works.

The four detectors are ultrasound transducers that act as smart pulse transmitters and receivers. Pulses are emitted whenever reverse is engaged and are reflected and received by the sensor in the same way as an echo when an obstacle is encountered. The input signal is now converted into a digital signal and sent to the electronic control unit, which activates the buzzer. 

The information is then transmitted to the driver in the form of bleeps at intervals. The bleeps are emitted closer and closer together and become a continuous signal when the car reaches a distance of 30 cm from the obstacle. 

The sound buzzer is interrupted when the side sensors detect an object approaching for longer than three seconds. This is to prevent the system from continuing to emit a sound when manoeuvring along a wall parallel to the car's centre line. 

>>> glass segmented sunroof ( sky window )

The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon may be fitted with a large glass sunroof that represents a first for this segment and offers a new way of experiencing car travel. This state-of-the-art device, consists of five segments and a sunblind that slides independently toward the rear of the car on two aluminium guides. This system allows you to choose how you wish to enjoy the outside world as you drive. The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon can be converted from a closed car to a car with a glass sunroof, a car with a conventional sunroof or even a model with the feel of a cabriolet. Everything depends on the outdoor temperature and the type of day. On a windless day when you want to flood the passenger compartment with light, you can close the glass part and open the underlying blind. If you'd rather travel in an open-topped car, it takes just 10 seconds to open the segmented roof and blind fully to enjoy a patch of fresh air that extends to nearly one and a half square metres. Or you could decide to open the segments and the blind only partly. 

To move the glass panels, simply turn the central courtesy light selector to one of five positions. At the first click, the first segment (rotary) takes up a position reminiscent of a not very pronounced spoiler, while the blind moves until it is level with the second segment. When you move the selector to position two, the system moves the first segment to its final position (when it looks like a higher spoiler) and the glass panels begin to slide toward the rear of the car. The next three clicks move the segments further and further back until the roof is fully open. The same movements take place in reverse order during closure, when the knob is turned anticlockwise. 

Move the sunblind by pressing one of the two open/close keys located near the knob that controls the segments. For safety reasons, the sunblind can never be opened to a lesser extent than the glass section when the segments are moved backward. The segmented roof (Sky Window) also comes with an anti-obstruction system that is operational on the front edge of the blind and the second segment and also on the rear edge of the first segment. If the blind encounters an obstacle (e.g. a finger or hand), the system reverses the direction of movement and moves the blind back by twenty centimetres. The same thing happens for the segments: more specifically, if only the first one is open, the presence of an obstacle reverses the direction of spoiler movement.

Once you have got out of the Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon, you can control segment closure or opening at the same time as the doors and windows by using either the remote or the key.

>>> CONNECT

Throughout the course of more than one hundred years of history, the car has continually evolved to become more comfortable, cleaner and a more effective performer. Aided by advances in the field of data processing and telecommunications technology, the industry again proves its great vitality by preparing for a new, radical change. A change that is destined to make the idea of a car journey as a period of detachment from everyday activities and habits a thing of the past. Instead a car journey will become a time in our day that allows us to maintain contact with the outside world and even offer a few extra opportunities. The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon has taken a decisive leap forward in this field and offers an unparalleled infotelematic array: the cutting-edge CONNECT system, an innovative MP3 file reader, and a useful WAP protocol. Not forgetting voice recognition and steering wheel controls, two advanced methods for imparting orders to the various on-board instruments. 

>>> the world on board

Fiat Auto, a leader in the field of information technology for automotive applications, is now pursuing a policy of bringing GSM phones, navigation systems and devices such as handsfree sets and voice memos on board its cars. All these devices have been bundled to form CONNECT, the most advanced integrated tool of this type and the one that currently offers the highest number of functions and services. 

The CONNECT system, located in the centre of the facia, acts as an on-board assistant that can be asked to make a phone call, consult a road map, put on some music or take a memo. All this is done by means of the keys that surround the unit or voice commands that may be issued while the screen relays a detailed report on requirements. The resulting device is full of functions, comes at an advantageous price and is, above all, as easy to use as one would expect of latest-generation technology.

CONNECT offers something more than its competitors. In other words, the possibility of talking to a real live person. This person is a call centre operator who is ready to provide information, resolve problems and offer a wide range of services at any time. All you have to do to gain access to this new world of services is to press the green CONNECT key. Then you are in contact with one of the 750 operators employed at the Contact Centre in Arese. This veritable factory produces services and information 365 days a year.

Motorists are just a phone call away from operators who speak their language (14 languages are already in use), can help them find their way and give them information on traffic conditions and the weather en route to their destination. They can even recommend a restaurant and book a hotel. In the future, they will also be able to buy airline tickets for motorists. And, if necessary, they can send out a rescue vehicle. Someone who can guide you step by step to your destination, remind you of appointments and notify you of traffic changes. 

The CONNECT system is really one of a kind in terms of the number of functions it offers and the quality of its services. Without counting the fact that Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon customers can choose between three different levels of the CONNECT system, all with a 192x80 pixel LCD graphic display, except for CONNECT NAV+, that comes with a 7" TFT colour screen.

The detailed range is as follows: 

- CONNECT NAV including an RDS radio with CD and MP3 function, trip computer, dual band GSM phone complete with handsfree function and WAP protocol, GPS module, independent navigation using pictograms and SOS button to link up to the Contact Centre and receive assistance and information. The system can also manage a Blaupunkt external CD changer, if fitted; 
- CONNECT NAV+ is the most comprehensive system. It offers all the previous functions plus a 7" active matrix colour display, map navigation system, atlas function, voice commands for the phone and a voice memo. 

CONNECT NAV can also come with voice commands as an option.

>>> navigation system

The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon offers a satellite navigation system, a cutting-edge device able to interact with other CONNECT functions: it is connected to a GSM phone, can exchange information with the radio and address book module, receive data from the trip computer, odometer (for speed) and information from map diskettes via the CD drive.

The navigation system is an effective aid for a relaxed drive in full comfort. The device uses visual and voice messages to indicate the route to reach the destination step by step.

All you have to do is tell the driver where you want to go, by indicating (you need only use a few letters) the town, address or even a crossroads along a road near your destination and the screen will display a list of towns or roads, which you can click on to choose. The navigation system also takes into account preferences indicated by the motorist when deciding on a route: motorways only, faster route etc. From that moment until arrival, an electronic co-pilot will inform the driver in advance of direction changes to be made. 

The navigation system also receives RDS/TMC signals (Radio Data System-Traffic Message Channel) from the radio. These indicate difficulties such as traffic line-backs, accidents, fog banks and work in progress. Wherever this type of service is available, the driver is always kept abreast of situations that he or she will meet along the road by means of a text message.

When the car is started up, the first position signal arrives very quickly. The computer receiver is supplied with the data by the GPS (Global Position System) satellite aerial. ABS sensor signals are also considered when calculating car movements (particularly if GPS reception conditions are poor). 

The car position is identified on a map and displayed on a screen. During the trip, the radio volume is lowered automatically so that the driver can hear voice indications on the route and then returns to the previous settings. 

A map of the area appears on the display. Some interesting ideas have been adopted on the Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon. The maps, for example, can be configured in various scales, from 1-10,000 up to 1-20,000,000 and be oriented as 'North up' or 'Heading up'. Distinctive areas (such as parks or lakes) and the road route are coloured in. The route is shown in different shades according to the importance of the roads. Digital maps required for navigation are stored on CD-Rom. In order to compute the route, the system needs the map disc to be inserted in the audio CD player. Once the relevant area has been loaded into the memory, you can continue to listen to music by replacing the map CD with the music CD. 

In this case, the navigation system computes a new route for the same destination.

>>> mp3 files

The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon allows you to listen to MP3 files, the great breakthrough in musical enjoyment. These highly compressed digital audio files allow you to store more than one hundred tracks on a single disc. MP3 files may be downloaded from the Internet and saved on a CD-ROM. The creation or development of MP3 (Mpeg-Layer 3) layers was triggered by the all-pervasive extent of telecommunications technology and the need to find a fast way to transmit sound and images. Compression proved to be the solution. In 1988, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the body responsible for setting world industrial standards, set up the Mpeg (Moving Picture Expert Group) research group and gave it the brief of preparing a comprehensive system for coding and decoding compressed video and audio signals. The idea is to compact a file by means of a special mathematical algorithm and then decompress it once it reaches its destination. This strategy is still used to produce files that are smaller than the original files and send them via the Internet. 

MP3 files used a special algorithm that does not affect sound quality in the least because it operates in two different ways: it acts to cut out data information redundancy, the same mechanism applied by ZIP compression software. The MP3 algorithm also cuts out sounds that are covered by others at any given moment and all sounds with frequencies imperceptible to the human ear. If we imagine that one minute of a musical track can take up 10 MB, the Mpeg Layer-3 algorithm reduces the same file to one twelfth of its original size. While maintaining the best possible quality levels. 

>>> voice recognition

The Fiat Stilo Multi Wagon's telematic product array includes voice recognition, a device that allows you to call a phone number or change radio station by means of commands issued vocally. The voice recognition module works in two ways: 'speaker independent' and 'speaker dependent'. The former is used to activate general commands such as 'Radio Autostore', 'CD play', 'Navigation system Zoom'. The latter allows you to associate a voice command (pre-recorded by the user) with a phone number from the list, a stored radio station or a destination in a personal address book.

CONNECT uses speaker independent mode to analyse a command received by the microphone in accordance with a model that operates independently of the speaker's sex, tone of voice or inflection. This means that a set of simple commands such as 'Call a number', 'PIN code', 'Recall' etc. may be imparted by anyone using the device.

Speaker dependent working mode, on the other hand, ensures more wide-ranging (and thus more interactive) communication with CONNECT. If this mode is used, the system records a voice sample from the normal user after the voice recognition system has been activated using a key and associates them with names and numbers. The system can then compare the name with names in its memory and call the number required. Communication with CONNECT can therefore follow a simple pattern, whereby the motorist speaks the phone number, the system repeats and responds in the following way to the 'call' command: 'call has been sent'. Or it may issue commands of the following type:

- 'Repeat', when it is not clear whether the correct number has been spoken;
- 'Delete', in case of error;
- 'Interrupt', to suspend the operation.

CONNECT can also be asked to list all the names in its address book at any time. All you have to do is press the voice recognition button and speak the words 'Read all names'. If a mistake is made, you can always delete, replace or alter one or more (or even all) the recorded samples. It is also possible to change the language used by the system (i.e. the one set originally) and choose another from the seven options: English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese and Dutch. The module then adapts to the new setting.

The CONNECT system can also be used to record short voice messages. The motorist can use this function, known as voice memo, to save and play back names, addresses, phone numbers and other information for up to 30 seconds of playing time. 

The voice memo may be used as a normal recording machine to take notes when the driver's hands are busy driving (half a minute of recording time corresponds to about eight rows of text).