The Fiat Tipo (356) 1.6 (110 hp) Automatic, produced between 2015 and 2018, represented a key offering in Fiat’s re-entry into the mainstream European C-segment sedan market. Positioned as a practical and affordable family vehicle, this variant aimed to provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience with the ease of an automatic transmission. It was part of the 356 project, which also encompassed hatchback and station wagon body styles, all built on a stretched version of the Fiat Compact platform. The Tipo was intended to appeal to buyers seeking value for money without sacrificing essential features or practicality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Tipo |
| Generation | Tipo (356) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (110 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 146 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 152 Nm @ 4500 rpm (112.11 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 55268036 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1705 kg (3758.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 800 kg (1763.7 lbs.) |
| Length | 4532 mm (178.43 in.) |
| Width | 1792 mm (70.55 in.) |
| Height | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.93 m (35.86 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Fiat Tipo 1.6 Automatic utilized the Fiat Fire family engine, specifically the 55268036 code. This 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine was a naturally aspirated unit featuring multi-point fuel injection. The engine produced 110 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 152 Nm (112 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized fuel efficiency and reliability over outright performance. The automatic transmission was a conventional six-speed unit, chosen for its ease of use and suitability for everyday driving. While not a dual-clutch or continuously variable transmission (CVT), it provided smooth shifts and adequate responsiveness for typical commuting and highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine paired with the six-speed automatic transmission delivered a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.6 seconds, and top speed was approximately 119 mph. The automatic transmission was tuned for economy, meaning it would upshift quickly to maintain fuel efficiency. This resulted in a somewhat relaxed driving feel, with the engine rarely being pushed to its limits during normal driving conditions. Compared to the more powerful engine options available in the Tipo range, such as the 1.4 T-Jet, this variant felt noticeably slower, especially during overtaking maneuvers. However, the automatic transmission made it a more convenient choice for drivers prioritizing ease of use over sporty performance. The gear ratios were fairly conservative, favoring fuel economy over rapid acceleration. The transmission didn’t offer a sport mode or manual shifting capabilities, further emphasizing its focus on comfortable, effortless driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Automatic trim typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were standard. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over stylistic flair. Base models featured simpler instrumentation, while higher trims might include a trip computer and more detailed displays.
Chassis & Braking
The Tipo 1.6 Automatic featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front brakes were discs, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing adequate feedback and precision. The suspension was tuned for comfort, resulting in a slightly softer ride compared to sportier variants of the Tipo. Stabilizer bars were present, but relatively thin, contributing to the car’s overall focus on ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Tipo 1.6 Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family car. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and competitive pricing. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked outright power and that the automatic transmission could feel somewhat sluggish at times. Compared to other C-segment sedans like the Volkswagen Jetta or Ford Focus, the Tipo offered a more budget-friendly option, but it didn’t quite match their levels of refinement or performance. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the Tipo achieving around 37.3 US mpg in combined driving, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious buyers. The Tipo aimed to undercut competitors on price, offering a compelling value proposition for buyers who didn’t prioritize premium features or sporty handling.
Legacy
The Fiat Tipo 1.6 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The Fire engine is known for its durability, and the automatic transmission, while not the most advanced, has generally held up well over time. Common issues are typically related to wear and tear on suspension components and minor electrical glitches. Today, the Tipo 1.6 Automatic represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and practical family sedan. Its simplicity and relatively low running costs make it an appealing choice for those prioritizing functionality over performance or prestige. Parts availability remains good, and the car’s straightforward design makes it relatively easy to maintain and repair, contributing to its continued appeal in the used car market.
