The Fiat Qubo 1.4 (70 hp) CNG is a compact recreational vehicle produced by the Italian manufacturer Fiat between 2019 and 2019. Part of the Qubo model range, this variant was specifically designed to offer an economical and environmentally conscious transportation solution, leveraging both petrol and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuel options. It falls within the broader first generation of the Qubo (225A project), sharing its platform with the Citroën Nemo and Peugeot Bipper, a result of a collaborative venture between the PSA Group and Fiat. This particular engine and fuel configuration represented an entry-level option within the Qubo lineup, prioritizing fuel efficiency and lower running costs over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Qubo |
| Generation | Qubo |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (70 Hp) CNG |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (CNG) | 6.3 kg/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (CNG) | 4.2 kg/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (CNG) | 5.1 kg/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 17.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 17.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 16.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 149 km/h (92.58 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.8 kg/Hp, 59.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 11.2 kg/Nm, 89.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 77 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.3 Hp/l |
| Power (CNG) | 70 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre (CNG) | 51.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 3000 rpm (84.82 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Torque (CNG) | 104 Nm @ 3000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 350A1000 |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 11.1:1 |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.6 l (2.75 US qt, 2.29 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt, 5.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1290 kg (2843.96 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 250 l (8.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2400 l (84.76 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 13.2 l (3.49 US gal, 2.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3957-3971 mm (155.79 – 156.34 in) |
| Width | 1716 mm (67.56 in) |
| Height | 1735-1810 mm (68.31 – 71.26 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2513 mm (98.94 in) |
| Front track | 1462-1464 mm (57.56 – 57.64 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1464-1465 mm (57.64 – 57.68 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.82 m (35.5 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 257 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 228 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Fiat Qubo 1.4 (70 hp) CNG utilizes the 350A1000 engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is part of Fiat’s Fire family, known for its simplicity and durability. When operating on petrol, it produces 77 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 115 Nm of torque at 3000 rpm. However, when running on CNG, the power output is reduced to 70 horsepower at the same engine speed, with torque dropping to 104 Nm. The engine employs a multi-point sequential fuel injection system, optimizing fuel delivery for both petrol and CNG operation. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The 5-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available for this variant, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and contribution to overall fuel economy. The CNG system consists of a tank, a pressure regulator, and an electronic control unit (ECU) that manages the switch between petrol and CNG operation.
Driving Characteristics
The Qubo 1.4 (70 hp) CNG offers modest performance, prioritizing fuel efficiency over acceleration. The 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 17.5 seconds reflects its limited power output. The CNG mode further reduces performance, making it suitable primarily for urban driving. The 5-speed manual transmission is geared towards maximizing fuel economy, with relatively long gear ratios. This results in a relaxed driving experience at highway speeds, but requires frequent downshifting when overtaking or climbing hills. Compared to higher-powered Qubo variants, such as those with the 1.3 Multijet diesel engine, the 1.4 CNG feels significantly less responsive. However, the CNG variant offers a smoother and quieter driving experience, particularly in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Qubo 1.4 (70 hp) CNG typically served as the entry-level trim, offering a basic but functional equipment list. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. The interior typically featured cloth upholstery and a simple dashboard layout. Optional extras, depending on the market, could include air conditioning, a radio with CD player, and rear parking sensors. The Qubo’s modular interior design allowed for flexible seating configurations, with the rear seats folding flat or even being removed entirely to maximize cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The Qubo utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, particularly on smooth roads. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The relatively lightweight construction of the Qubo, with a kerb weight of 1290 kg, helps to compensate for the engine’s limited power output. The hydraulic power steering provides light and easy steering, making it well-suited for urban maneuvering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Qubo 1.4 (70 hp) CNG was primarily targeted at environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking a cost-effective vehicle for urban commuting. Critics generally praised its fuel efficiency and practicality, but noted its limited performance. Compared to the petrol-only Qubo 1.4, the CNG variant offered lower running costs due to the lower price of CNG fuel. However, the CNG version’s reduced power output was a drawback for some drivers. Compared to diesel-powered Qubo models, the CNG variant offered a quieter and cleaner driving experience, but lacked the diesel’s superior torque and fuel economy on longer journeys.
Legacy
The Fiat Qubo 1.4 (70 hp) CNG, despite its short production run, represents an important step in Fiat’s efforts to offer alternative fuel vehicles. The 350A1000 engine, while not known for its high performance, proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant. On the used car market, these models are often sought after by buyers looking for an economical and environmentally friendly vehicle. The CNG system requires periodic maintenance, including inspection of the CNG tank and fuel lines, but overall reliability is generally good. The Qubo’s practical interior and flexible seating configurations continue to make it a popular choice for small families and urban dwellers.
