The Fiat Tipo (357) Hatchback 1.4 (120 hp) was a front-wheel-drive compact car produced by Fiat between 2016 and 2018. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Tipo lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and reasonable performance for the European market. The Tipo, relaunched in 2016, represented Fiat’s return to the C-segment hatchback class after a period focusing on smaller vehicles. This variant utilized a turbocharged 1.4-liter gasoline engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, offering a step up in power compared to the base 1.2-liter engine while remaining more affordable than the diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Tipo |
| Generation | Tipo (357) Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 215 Nm @ 2500 rpm (158.58 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 940B7000 |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.1 l (3.28 US qt | 2.73 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Length | 4368 mm (171.97 in.) |
| Width | 1792 mm (70.55 in.) |
| Height | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2638 mm (103.86 in.) |
| Front track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Rear track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Front overhang | 893 mm (35.16 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 837 mm (32.95 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.93 m (35.86 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| 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 | Electric |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tipo 1.4 (120 hp) is the Fiat Firefly 1.4 T-Jet engine, designated with the code 940B7000. This is a four-cylinder, inline engine featuring a turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. The engine utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a timing chain, contributing to its durability. The turbocharger provides increased power and torque compared to naturally aspirated engines of similar displacement. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing drivers with good control over the engine’s power band. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel economy. The engine’s 9.8:1 compression ratio is relatively moderate, allowing it to run on standard 95 octane gasoline.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 T-Jet engine in the Tipo provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 1.2-liter engine. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.1 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The turbocharger delivers a surge of power in the mid-range, providing good overtaking capability. While not a particularly sporty car, the Tipo 1.4 offered adequate performance for everyday driving. The six-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.4 T-Jet offered a more responsive and engaging driving experience, albeit with slightly lower fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Tipo 1.4 (120 hp) typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. The specific standard equipment varied slightly depending on the country and optional packages selected.
Chassis & Braking
The Tipo 1.4 utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday driving. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The chassis was designed to balance handling with ride comfort, prioritizing practicality over outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Tipo 1.4 (120 hp) was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable family hatchback. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the interior materials felt somewhat low-rent compared to some competitors. Compared to the 1.2-liter version, the 1.4 T-Jet offered a significant performance boost, making it a more appealing option for drivers who frequently travel on highways or carry passengers. Against diesel alternatives, it offered a lower purchase price but slightly higher running costs due to fuel consumption.
Legacy
The Fiat Tipo (357) 1.4 (120 hp) has established a reputation as a reliable and affordable used car. The 1.4 T-Jet engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered durable when properly maintained. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential oil leaks. However, these are typically manageable with regular servicing. Today, the Tipo 1.4 represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and economical family hatchback. Its relatively simple mechanical design makes it easier and cheaper to maintain compared to more complex modern vehicles.
