The Fiat Idea 1.2 16V Multijet, producing 90 horsepower, was a compact minivan marketed primarily in Europe from 2006 to 2010. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the Idea range, it aimed to provide affordable and economical transportation for small families. This variant occupied a crucial space in Fiat’s lineup, bridging the gap between basic city cars and larger, more expensive MPVs. It was built on the Fiat 1HX0/A3 platform, shared with other small Fiat and Peugeot/Citroën models. The 1.2 Multijet engine was a key component of Fiat’s strategy to offer fuel-efficient diesel options in a smaller vehicle segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Idea |
| Generation | Idea |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 16V Multijet (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1750 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| 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 | 17.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l (3.17 US qt | 2.64 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495 kg (1091.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 320 l (11.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1420 l (50.15 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Length | 3930 mm (154.72 in.) |
| Width | 1698 mm (66.85 in.) |
| Height | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2508 mm (98.74 in.) |
| Front track | 1434 mm (56.46 in.) |
| Rear track | 1424 mm (56.06 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/50R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Fiat Idea 1.2 16V Multijet was the 1.248-liter, inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, belonging to Fiat’s Multijet family, utilized second-generation common rail direct injection technology. The engine code for this specific output was typically 199B2.000. The Multijet system allowed for multiple fuel injections per combustion cycle, improving combustion efficiency, reducing noise, and enhancing power delivery. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output and compensate for the relatively small displacement. The engine featured a 17.6:1 compression ratio and four valves per cylinder, contributing to its efficiency and responsiveness. The 90 horsepower variant was paired with a six-speed manual transmission, optimized for fuel economy and smooth operation. The transmission’s gear ratios were relatively long, prioritizing efficiency over outright acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 Multijet engine in the Idea provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 11.6 to 12.2 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 107.5 mph. The engine’s peak torque of 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) was available from a low 1750 rpm, providing good pulling power for everyday driving situations. However, compared to higher-output versions of the Idea, such as those equipped with the 1.4-liter petrol engine, the 1.2 Multijet felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded or climbing hills. The six-speed manual transmission helped to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but required frequent shifting to maintain momentum. The ride quality was generally comfortable, but the handling was not particularly sporty.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 90 hp 1.2 Multijet Idea typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a radio/CD player, and rear electric windows. Higher trim levels, such as the “Dynamic” or “Eleganza” variants, added features like body-colored bumpers, upgraded interior trim, and additional safety equipment. The Idea was designed with practicality in mind, offering a versatile interior with folding rear seats and a generous amount of cargo space – ranging from 320 to 1420 liters depending on the seat configuration.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiat Idea utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were disc brakes, while the rear brakes were drum brakes – a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing reasonably precise control. The 195/50R15 tires offered adequate grip for everyday driving conditions. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Idea 1.2 16V Multijet was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It offered a compelling alternative to larger, more expensive MPVs for buyers who didn’t require a lot of space or performance. However, some reviewers criticized its relatively slow acceleration and basic interior. Compared to other engines in the Idea lineup, the 1.2 Multijet offered the best fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The petrol-powered 1.4-liter engine provided more power but was less fuel-efficient. The 1.9-liter JTD diesel engine offered a significant performance boost but was more expensive to purchase and maintain.
Legacy
The Fiat Idea 1.2 16V Multijet has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, particularly the engine itself. The Multijet diesel engine is known for its durability and longevity, provided it is properly maintained. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components and occasional problems with the fuel injection system. In the used car market, the Idea 1.2 Multijet remains an affordable and economical option for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient small minivan. Its compact size and easy maneuverability make it well-suited for urban driving. While it may not offer the most exciting driving experience, it provides a dependable and cost-effective means of transportation.
