The Fiat Tipo (358) Wagon 1.6 (120 hp) DDCT represents a specific configuration within the Tipo wagon range, produced between 2016 and 2018. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with reasonable performance for family transport. The Tipo, relaunched in 2016, was intended to recapture Fiat’s presence in the competitive C-segment, offering a practical and affordable alternative to established rivals. This wagon variant, utilizing a 1.6-liter diesel engine paired with a dual-clutch transmission (DDCT), was primarily marketed in Europe where diesel engines and wagons remained popular choices.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Tipo |
| Generation | Tipo (358) Wagon |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (120 Hp) DDCT |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp, 84.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 224.6 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 | 1425 kg (3141.59 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1925 kg (4243.9 lbs) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs) |
| Length | 4571 mm (179.96 in.) |
| Width | 1792 mm (70.55 in.) |
| Height | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2638 mm (103.86 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 | 1040 mm (40.94 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 DDCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tipo Wagon 1.6 (120 hp) DDCT is the Fiat-sourced 1.6-liter Multijet II diesel engine. This engine, identified by code 55260384, is a four-cylinder, inline configuration utilizing a common-rail direct injection system. The Multijet II technology allows for multiple fuel injections per combustion cycle, improving efficiency and reducing noise. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances power output. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 3750 rpm and a respectable 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1750 rpm, providing good low-end responsiveness. The DDCT (Dual Dry Clutch Transmission) is a six-speed automatic gearbox. Unlike traditional torque-converter automatics, the DDCT uses two separate clutches for odd and even gears, enabling faster and smoother gear changes. This transmission was chosen for its efficiency and responsiveness, contributing to the vehicle’s overall fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter diesel with the DDCT provides a comfortable and practical driving experience. While not a performance-oriented setup, the engine’s torque delivery makes it well-suited for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration to 60 mph takes approximately 9.9 seconds, and the top speed is around 124 mph. The DDCT transmission generally shifts smoothly, although some drivers have reported occasional hesitation at low speeds. Compared to the higher-output 1.4 T-Jet petrol engine available in the Tipo range, the 1.6 diesel offers significantly better fuel economy but lacks the petrol engine’s outright acceleration. Against other diesel variants, like a potential 1.3 Multijet, the 1.6 offers a noticeable power advantage, making it more capable when fully loaded or tackling inclines. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over sporty performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 (120 hp) DDCT variant of the Tipo Wagon typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered additional features like automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, a navigation system, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were generally durable and functional, reflecting the Tipo’s focus on practicality and value. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, prioritizing ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Tipo Wagon utilizes a McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and responsive feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis is designed to balance comfort and handling, prioritizing stability and predictability over sporty dynamics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Tipo Wagon 1.6 (120 hp) DDCT was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable family vehicle. Its fuel economy was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was often cheaper than petrol. However, some reviewers noted that the DDCT transmission could be occasionally jerky, and the interior, while functional, lacked the premium feel of some competitors. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf Estate or the Ford Focus Estate, the Tipo Wagon offered a lower price point but may have lacked some of the refinement and brand prestige. Its reliability record has been generally good, with few widespread issues reported.
Legacy
The Fiat Tipo Wagon 1.6 (120 hp) DDCT represents a solid and dependable choice in the used car market. The 1.6 Multijet engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs, provided it receives regular servicing. The DDCT transmission, while occasionally exhibiting minor quirks, is generally reliable. As a used vehicle, the Tipo Wagon offers excellent value for money, providing a spacious and practical interior, good fuel economy, and a comfortable ride. Its simplicity and robust construction make it a potentially long-lasting vehicle, appealing to buyers seeking a no-frills, dependable estate car.
