The Fiat Qubo 1.3 16V (75 hp) MultiJet S&S was a compact MPV produced by Fiat between 2008 and 2016. Part of the Project 225 family, jointly developed with PSA Peugeot Citroën, the Qubo aimed to provide an affordable and practical vehicle for small families and urban environments. This particular variant, powered by the 1.3-liter MultiJet diesel engine with 75 horsepower, represented an entry-level option within the Qubo range, prioritizing fuel efficiency and low running costs over outright performance. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where small MPVs were a popular segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Qubo |
| Generation | Qubo |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 16V (75 Hp) MULTIJET S&S |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 155 km/h (96.31 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 1500 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 199 A2.000 |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt, 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt, 6.69 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1275 kg (2810.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1710 kg (3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 435 kg (959.01 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 329 l (11.62 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2500 l (88.29 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal, 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3959 mm (155.87 in.) |
| Width | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Height | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2513 mm (98.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1462 mm (57.56 in.) |
| Rear track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.55 m (34.61 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Fiat Qubo 1.3 MultiJet S&S, launched in 2008, was a key component of Fiat’s strategy to offer practical and affordable vehicles to a broad customer base. Built on the shared platform with the Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Partner, the Qubo aimed to capitalize on the popularity of compact MPVs in Europe. The 1.3-liter MultiJet engine with 75 horsepower was positioned as the entry-level powertrain option, appealing to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and low running costs. The “S&S” designation indicates the inclusion of Fiat’s Start&Stop system, further enhancing fuel efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Qubo 1.3 MultiJet S&S is the 199A2.000 engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Fiat’s MultiJet family, known for its common-rail direct injection system and advanced turbocharging technology. The MultiJet system allows for multiple fuel injections per combustion cycle, resulting in smoother operation, reduced noise, and improved fuel efficiency. The engine utilizes a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler to boost power and torque. The 16-valve DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain further contributes to the engine’s efficiency and responsiveness. The 75 hp output is achieved at 4000 rpm, while peak torque of 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) is available from just 1500 rpm, providing good low-end pulling power. This engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its simplicity and efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The Qubo 1.3 MultiJet S&S, with its 75 horsepower and relatively low weight, offered adequate performance for urban and suburban driving. Acceleration was not its strong suit, with a 0-60 mph time of around 14.4 seconds. However, the engine’s strong low-end torque made it surprisingly capable for overtaking maneuvers on the open road. The five-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing usable gear ratios for everyday driving. Compared to higher-powered versions of the Qubo, such as those equipped with the 1.4-liter petrol engine, the 1.3 MultiJet prioritized fuel economy over outright speed. The gear ratios were optimized for maximizing fuel efficiency, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience than the more powerful variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Qubo 1.3 MultiJet S&S typically came with a modest level of standard equipment. Basic features included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an adjustable steering column. Safety features included ABS brakes, driver and passenger airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included air conditioning, a radio with CD player, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as rear parking sensors, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded interior trim. The Qubo was designed to be a practical and affordable vehicle, so luxury features were generally kept to a minimum.
Chassis & Braking
The Qubo’s chassis was designed to provide a comfortable and stable ride. The front suspension utilized an independent McPherson strut setup, while the rear suspension employed a torsion beam. This configuration provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The Qubo’s relatively light weight contributed to its manageable handling characteristics. The steering was hydraulic, providing a reasonably direct and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Qubo 1.3 MultiJet S&S was generally well-received by critics for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It was praised for its spacious interior, versatile seating arrangements, and low running costs. However, some critics noted its modest performance and relatively basic interior. Compared to other compact MPVs in the market, such as the Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Partner (with which it shared its platform), the Qubo offered a similar level of practicality and fuel efficiency. The 1.3 MultiJet engine was considered a good compromise between performance and economy, making it a popular choice for buyers prioritizing fuel costs.
Legacy
The Fiat Qubo 1.3 MultiJet S&S has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The 1.3 MultiJet engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. While not known for blistering performance, the engine is generally considered robust and capable of handling high mileage. Common issues are typically related to wear and tear on components such as the turbocharger and fuel injectors, but these are generally straightforward to repair. Today, the Qubo 1.3 MultiJet S&S remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and economical MPV.
