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It was 30 years ago, in 1988, that Fiat first introduced the Tipo hatchback to the world, and while some of you may struggle to remember that, it was a more significant date than you realise.
That original Tipo scored a number of firsts in the industry, including a plastic composite tailgate, a digital dashboard (not the first, but one of the better variants of that breed), and a modular platform that would allow Fiat to spin-off saloon and estate models, as well as going on to form the basis of a whole host of others - the Fiat Coupe, the Alfa Romeo GTV and many others would not exist were it not for the Tipo... Equally, neither would the Zastava Florida, but perhaps that's best forgotten.
Nowadays, the current Tipo is a bit less sophisticated in spirit than its forebear, but a lot more affordable relative to the competition. And Fiat has just added a sporty-looking new S-Design version, doubtless looking to cash in on any 30 year nostalgia that might be knocking around for the original.
S-Design models get a glossy black radiator grille, with a similar finish on the foglight surrounds, and door mirror caps. They get bi-Xenon lights, diamond-cut 18-inch alloy wheels, tinted rear windows, and body-coloured door handles. There are five paint options, including a new shade called 'Street Grey.'
Inside, there are new seats with a mix of Airtex fabric and leather, with leather trim on the steering wheel and gear shifter, plus glossy black and 'Technico Grey' interior trim.
There's also the seven-inch uConnect touchscreen infotainment system, which now comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
S-Design trim will be offered on two engines - the 120hp 1.4-litre T-Jet turbo petrol, and the 120hp 1.6 M-Jet turbo diesel, with Co2 figures ranging from 98g/km to 139g/km.
Irish prices are €22,995 for the petrol version, and €24,745 for the diesel.