The Fiat Talento Van 1.6 Ecojet (125 Hp) L2H1, produced from 2016 to 2021, represents Fiat Professional’s entry in the mid-size van segment. This variant, characterized by its 1.6-liter turbocharged diesel engine and L2H1 body configuration (Long wheelbase, High roof – 1), was designed to offer a balance of cargo capacity, fuel efficiency, and affordability for commercial users. It’s part of the broader Talento range, which was developed in collaboration with Renault and Nissan, sharing a platform with the Renault Trafic and Nissan NV300. The Talento aimed to provide a competitive alternative to established players like the Ford Transit and Volkswagen Transporter in the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Talento |
| Generation | Talento Van |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Ecojet (125 Hp) L2H1 |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 174 km/h (108.12 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.4 kg/Hp, 69.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 178.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R9M 452 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.45:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1797 kg (3961.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3040 kg (6702.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1243 kg (2740.35 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 6000 l (211.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5399 mm (212.56 in.) |
| Width | 1956 mm (77.01 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2283 mm (89.88 in.) |
| Height | 1971 mm (77.6 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3498 mm (137.72 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1628 mm (64.09 in.) |
| Front overhang | 933 mm (36.73 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 968 mm (38.11 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.73 m (45.05 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16; 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Talento 1.6 Ecojet utilizes the Renault-developed R9M engine family, specifically the R9M 452 variant. This is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine featuring a twin-turbocharger setup and a common-rail direct fuel injection system. The twin-turbo configuration is crucial for delivering both low-end torque for hauling and higher power output at higher RPMs. The engine boasts 125 horsepower at 3500 rpm and a substantial 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque available from just 1500 rpm. This makes it well-suited for carrying heavy loads. The engine’s compression ratio is relatively high at 15.45:1, contributing to its efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a good balance between fuel economy and drivability. The engine also incorporates an intercooler to further enhance performance by cooling the intake air.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Ecojet with the 6-speed manual transmission offers a practical driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for most commercial applications. The readily available torque makes it easy to accelerate even when fully loaded. The gear ratios are well-chosen to keep the engine within its optimal power band during typical driving conditions. Compared to higher-powered versions of the Talento, this variant feels less strained during acceleration, but naturally lacks the same outright speed. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control, especially when navigating hilly terrain or towing. Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle figures around 38.6 US mpg, making it a cost-effective option for businesses.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Talento 1.6 Ecojet L2H1 typically came with a functional, work-oriented interior. Standard equipment included a driver’s airbag, ABS brakes, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and manual air conditioning. The cabin focused on durability and practicality, with hard-wearing plastics and easy-to-clean surfaces. Optional extras included a passenger airbag, rear parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and cruise control. Trim levels were relatively basic, with the emphasis being on providing a versatile and affordable van for commercial use. The L2H1 configuration offered a generous cargo volume of approximately 6000 liters (211.89 cubic feet), making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Chassis & Braking
The Talento utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The hydraulic power steering provides a light and responsive feel. The suspension is tuned to prioritize load-carrying capacity over sporty handling, resulting in a slightly softer ride quality.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Talento 1.6 Ecojet was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient van. It was praised for its spacious interior, good payload capacity, and competitive pricing. However, some reviewers noted that the interior was somewhat basic compared to some rivals. Compared to the higher-powered versions of the Talento, the 1.6 Ecojet offered a more affordable entry point, but at the expense of performance. Against competitors like the Ford Transit Custom and Volkswagen Transporter, the Talento offered a compelling value proposition, particularly for businesses prioritizing fuel economy and practicality. The 1.6 Ecojet’s reliability was generally considered good, although long-term ownership costs could vary depending on maintenance practices.
Legacy
The Fiat Talento 1.6 Ecojet (125 Hp) L2H1 remains a popular choice in the used van market. The R9M engine, while not without its potential issues (such as turbocharger and EGR valve problems), is generally considered durable when properly maintained. The availability of spare parts is good, and the relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to repair. The Talento’s spacious interior and fuel efficiency continue to make it a practical option for small businesses and tradespeople. Its collaborative development with Renault and Nissan has ensured a degree of parts commonality, further enhancing its appeal in the used market.
