The Fiat Tipo (356) facelift, introduced in October 2020, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the Tipo compact car. Among the engine options available, the 1.3 MultiJet producing 95 horsepower was a significant offering, particularly in European markets where diesel engines remained popular for their fuel efficiency. This variant occupied the lower-mid range of the Tipo lineup, positioned as an economical and practical choice for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and everyday usability over outright performance. It was offered primarily as a sedan, though hatchback and station wagon body styles were also available with this engine in some regions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Tipo |
| Generation | Tipo (356, facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 MultiJet (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | October, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 110-113 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d Final |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.1 kg/Hp, 76.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 161.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 46345266 |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69.6 mm (2.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.9 l (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1240 kg (2733.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1740 kg (3836.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 12.5 l (3.3 US gal | 2.75 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 45 kg (99.21 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 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.) |
| Front overhang | 893 mm (35.16 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1003 mm (39.49 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 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 with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc, 284×22 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 228×40 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Tipo variant is the 1.3 MultiJet engine, a member of Fiat’s family of turbocharged diesel engines. This engine, identified by code 46345266, is a 1248cc inline-four cylinder unit. It utilizes a second-generation Common Rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler to increase air density and boost power output. The valvetrain employs a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) configuration with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and efficiency. The 95 horsepower output is achieved at 3750 rpm, while peak torque of 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) is available from just 1500 rpm, providing good low-end responsiveness. The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 MultiJet 95 hp engine in the Tipo delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.8 seconds, and top speed is rated at 184 km/h (114.33 mph). While not a sporty configuration, the engine’s strong low-end torque makes it well-suited for navigating city streets and overtaking on highways. Compared to higher-output versions of the Tipo, such as those with the 1.6-liter gasoline engine, this diesel variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright speed. The 5-speed manual transmission offers a relatively conventional gear ratio spread, with a focus on maximizing fuel efficiency. The gear ratios are spaced to keep the engine within its optimal torque band during normal driving conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 MultiJet 95 hp Tipo typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as driver and passenger airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Tipo’s chassis features an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam setup at the rear. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are disc brakes, measuring 284x22mm, while the rear brakes are drum brakes, sized at 228x40mm. This combination is adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance capabilities. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing braking safety. The steering system is a rack and pinion type with electric power assistance, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.3 MultiJet 95 hp Tipo was generally well-received in markets where diesel engines were popular. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers and those covering long distances. Compared to the gasoline-powered variants, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy. However, it was often criticized for its relatively modest performance and the characteristic diesel engine noise. Compared to competitors like the Volkswagen Golf or Peugeot 308, the Tipo offered a more affordable price point, but often lacked the same level of refinement and brand prestige.
Legacy
The 1.3 MultiJet engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, with many examples still on the road today. While diesel engines have faced increasing scrutiny in recent years due to emissions concerns, the Tipo’s 1.3 MultiJet engine, meeting Euro 6d Final standards, remains a viable option for those seeking a fuel-efficient and practical compact car. On the used car market, these models are often sought after for their affordability and low running costs, making them a popular choice for first-time buyers or those needing a dependable daily driver.
