The Fiat Tipo (356) 1.3 MultiJet 95 hp, produced from 2018 to 2020, represented an entry-level diesel option within the broader Tipo range. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical sedan, it aimed to provide affordable transportation for families and commuters. The Tipo (356) itself was Fiat’s re-entry into the compact sedan market after a hiatus, designed to compete with established rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. This particular variant, with its smaller displacement engine and modest power output, was geared towards buyers prioritizing economy over outright performance. It was primarily sold in European markets, where diesel engines remained popular due to favorable taxation and fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Tipo |
| Generation | Tipo (356) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 MultiJet (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 122 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp, 75.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 158.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 55266963 |
| 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 | 16.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.9 l (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1260 kg (2777.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1760 kg (3880.14 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4532 mm (178.43 in.) |
| Width | 1792 mm (70.55 in.) |
| Height | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Rear track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.93 m (35.86 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc, 284 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 228 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tipo 1.3 MultiJet is the Fiat Firefly engine family. Specifically, this variant utilizes the 1.3-liter turbocharged diesel engine, designated with engine code 55266963. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, featuring a common-rail direct injection system. The MultiJet technology, developed by Fiat, allows for multiple injections of fuel per combustion cycle, improving efficiency and reducing noise. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, helps to boost power output and torque. The engine produces 95 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque at 1500 rpm. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 16.8:1 is typical for diesel engines, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for this trim level. An automatic transmission was not available for this specific engine/trim combination.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 MultiJet 95 hp Tipo delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 11.1 seconds, and top speed is approximately 112.47 mph. The engine’s torque is readily available from low revs, making it suitable for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. However, the engine can feel strained when pushed hard, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. The five-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with gear ratios optimized for fuel efficiency. Compared to higher-powered Tipo variants, such as those with the 1.6-liter gasoline engine, the 1.3 MultiJet prioritizes fuel economy over outright speed. The manual transmission provides more driver engagement than an automatic would, but also requires more effort in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 MultiJet 95 hp typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on practicality and affordability. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as driver and passenger airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as the Lounge or Sport, offered additional features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included metallic paint, fog lights, and a panoramic sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The Tipo 1.3 MultiJet utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not particularly sporty. The front brakes are disc brakes, measuring 284 mm in diameter, while the rear brakes are drum brakes, measuring 228 mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension is tuned for comfort and stability, rather than aggressive handling. The relatively lightweight nature of the 1.3-liter engine contributes to a balanced chassis, but the rear drum brakes limit overall braking performance compared to models equipped with rear disc brakes.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Tipo 1.3 MultiJet was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and affordability. It was praised as a practical and sensible choice for buyers seeking a budget-friendly diesel sedan. However, some reviewers criticized its lack of power and refinement compared to rivals. Compared to the gasoline-powered Tipo variants, the 1.3 MultiJet offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the Tipo offered a lower price point but lacked the same level of brand prestige and overall refinement. Its fuel economy figures of around 51.1 US mpg combined were competitive within its class.
Legacy
The Fiat Tipo 1.3 MultiJet, while not a performance icon, proved to be a reliable and economical option for many European drivers. The Firefly engine family, in general, has a reputation for durability, and the 1.3-liter variant is known for its relatively low running costs. On the used car market, these models represent good value for money, particularly for those seeking a fuel-efficient and practical sedan. However, potential buyers should be aware of the typical maintenance requirements for diesel engines, such as regular servicing of the diesel particulate filter (DPF). The Tipo 1.3 MultiJet remains a viable option for budget-conscious buyers looking for a dependable and economical vehicle.
