The Fiat Tipo (357) Hatchback 1.6 MultiJet 120 Hp DCT represents a significant offering in the compact hatchback segment, produced between 2018 and 2020. Positioned as a mid-range option within the Tipo lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with reasonable performance, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and economical family vehicle. The Tipo, revived in 2015 after a two-decade hiatus, was designed to offer a spacious and well-equipped package at a competitive price point, primarily targeting European markets. This particular variant combined a modern diesel engine with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) for a more refined driving experience than base models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Tipo |
| Generation | Tipo (357) Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 MultiJet (120 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (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 | 199 km/h (123.65 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 230.2 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 | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1890 kg (4166.74 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 | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic 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 1.6-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine, identified by engine code 55260384. This engine belongs to Fiat’s family of turbocharged diesel engines, known for their efficiency and relatively low emissions. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output and improving torque delivery. The 16.5:1 compression ratio is typical for diesel engines, contributing to their thermal efficiency. Paired with this engine is a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This DCT provides quicker and smoother gear changes compared to a traditional automatic transmission, enhancing the driving experience and contributing to improved fuel economy. The DCT’s operation relies on two separate clutches, one for odd gears and one for even gears, allowing for pre-selection of the next gear.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque offered by this powertrain configuration provide adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 10.1 seconds, which is competitive within its class. The DCT transmission contributes to a more responsive feel than the five-speed manual transmission available on lower-spec Tipo models. However, compared to higher-output versions of the Tipo, such as those equipped with the 1.4 T-Jet petrol engine, the 1.6 MultiJet feels less eager to rev and offers a more relaxed driving experience. The DCT is programmed for fuel efficiency, meaning gear changes occur at lower RPMs, prioritizing economy over outright performance. The torque curve is relatively flat, providing good pulling power from low engine speeds, making it suitable for overtaking and driving on hilly roads.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 MultiJet DCT trim typically included a good level of standard equipment. This generally encompassed air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, electric windows, and central locking. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, a rear parking sensor, cruise control, and a more advanced infotainment system with navigation. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and modern, prioritizing usability over extravagant design.
Chassis & Braking
The Tipo 1.6 MultiJet utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The electric power steering offers a light and precise feel, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Tipo 1.6 MultiJet DCT was generally well-received by automotive critics for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and competitive pricing. It was often praised for its spacious interior and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy and that the interior materials, while functional, weren’t particularly luxurious. Compared to other diesel-powered hatchbacks in its class, such as the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the Tipo offered a more affordable alternative, albeit with a slightly less refined driving experience. Its fuel economy figures were competitive, typically achieving around 52.3 US mpg on the combined cycle.
Legacy
The 1.6 MultiJet engine, in various iterations, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While diesel engines, in general, can be more susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly, the Tipo’s engine has a reasonably good reputation for durability. On the used car market, the Tipo 1.6 MultiJet DCT represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking an economical and practical hatchback. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good. However, potential buyers should ensure that the DPF has been properly maintained and that the vehicle has a full service history.
