As far back as the B-pillar the styling was effectively the same as the Bravo/Brava, but behind that the body was new, and in the saloon version it ended in a distinct boot. The Weekend had an extended estate body with characteristic high mounted rear lights and integrated roof bars. It also featured a fold down edge in the rear bumper to reduce the height of the lip, to ease loading of the 1540dm3 (with the rear seats folded) luggage space. Equipment fitted in its role as the top of the range Fiat model included air conditioning, electric windows, drivers airbag, three 3-point rear seatbelts and ABS as standard, with numerous additional items also available as options.

A dual-fuel vehicle, known as the Marea Bipower was is available. This featured a 1581cc 16V engine modified to operate on either petrol or methane, switchable from the drivers seat. Two sets of injectors were fitted and a special tank in the boot held the methane at high pressure. A light commercial vehicle, the Fiat Marengo, was also offered, which was basically a Weekend with no rear seats and various modifications to optimise it for its role as a light commercial vehicle.

The Marea ceased production in Europe during late 2002. However secondary assembly in Brazil (which began shortly into the model's life) still continues where the Marea remains Fiat's flagship sedan. This year now sees the car gain a mild all-round final facelift to extend its life further, with a new entry-level version that is aimed at widening its market appeal, as well as an increase to its options package, trims and cosmetic finish.