The Fiat Tipo (357) Hatchback 1.6 MultiJet, producing 120 horsepower, was a key variant in the Tipo lineup offered between 2018 and 2020. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, it aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a balance between economy and performance in the compact hatchback segment. This model represented Fiat’s attempt to recapture market share in the European C-segment, offering a competitive package with modern features and a diesel powertrain. The Tipo, in general, was designed as a no-nonsense, value-oriented vehicle, and the 1.6 MultiJet exemplified this philosophy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Tipo |
| Generation | Tipo (357) Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 MultiJet (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 year |
| End of production | 2020 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 118 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 90.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 242.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 55260384 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 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 (Back) track | 1543 mm (60.75 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc, 281 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 264 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tipo 1.6 MultiJet is the 1598cc inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated with engine code 55260384. This engine belongs to Fiat’s MultiJet family, known for its common-rail direct injection system and turbocharging. The MultiJet technology allows for multiple injections per combustion cycle, improving efficiency and reducing noise. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 120 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1750 rpm. This torque curve provides good responsiveness in everyday driving situations. The engine utilizes a 16.5:1 compression ratio, typical for diesel engines, and four valves per cylinder. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a good balance between fuel economy and drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 MultiJet engine, paired with the 6-speed manual gearbox, offered a practical and efficient driving experience. While not a performance-oriented setup, the 320 Nm of torque provided ample pulling power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.6 seconds, and top speed was rated at 201 km/h (124.9 mph). The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, with a relatively long final drive. Compared to higher-output versions of the Tipo, such as those with petrol engines, the 1.6 MultiJet prioritized fuel economy and low-end torque over outright speed. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control, but the engine’s characteristics meant it wasn’t particularly rev-happy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 MultiJet variant of the Tipo typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The overall interior design was functional and modern, but not overly luxurious, reflecting the Tipo’s value-oriented positioning.
Chassis & Braking
The Tipo 1.6 MultiJet utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday driving. The front brakes were ventilated discs measuring 281mm, while the rear brakes were solid discs measuring 264mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The chassis was tuned for stability and predictability, rather than sporty handling. The weight distribution was fairly balanced, contributing to neutral handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Tipo 1.6 MultiJet was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable hatchback. Its fuel economy was a major selling point, with combined fuel consumption figures of around 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg). Compared to petrol-powered versions of the Tipo, the 1.6 MultiJet offered significantly better fuel economy, making it an attractive option for high-mileage drivers. However, some critics noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy and lacked the refinement of some competitors. Compared to other diesel hatchbacks in the C-segment, such as the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the Tipo offered a more affordable price point, but with slightly less sophisticated technology and interior appointments.
Legacy
The 1.6 MultiJet engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, with many examples still on the road today. Common issues are typically related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF), which can become clogged if the vehicle is primarily used for short journeys. Regular servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are essential for maintaining the engine’s longevity. On the used car market, the Tipo 1.6 MultiJet represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical hatchback. Its affordability and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for those on a budget.
