The Fiat Tipo (357) Hatchback 1.3 MultiJet, producing 95 horsepower, was a key variant in the Tipo lineup offered between 2018 and 2020. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range option, it aimed to provide fuel efficiency and practicality for everyday use. This model represented Fiat’s attempt to recapture a segment of the European C-segment hatchback market, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 308. The Tipo, designed by Roberto Giolito, was a return to a more conventional hatchback design for Fiat after a period of focusing on smaller city cars.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Tipo |
| Generation | Tipo (357) Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 MultiJet (95 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 (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 | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp, 73.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 153.8 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 | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 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 | 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 |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 18 |
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 an inline-four cylinder unit featuring a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, enhances power output and efficiency. The engine produces 95 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1500 rpm. This torque curve provides good responsiveness in everyday driving situations. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet stringent Euro 6d-Temp emission standards. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The 5-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 MultiJet 95 hp engine, paired with the 5-speed manual transmission, offered a balance between fuel economy and acceptable performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 12.5 seconds, and top speed was around 181 km/h (112.47 mph). While not a particularly sporty setup, the engine’s strong low-end torque made it suitable for urban and highway driving. The gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, meaning the engine didn’t feel strained at cruising speeds. Compared to higher-output versions of the Tipo, such as those with the 1.6-liter gasoline engine, the 1.3 MultiJet offered significantly better fuel economy but lacked the same level of outright acceleration. The manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience than an automatic would have, but it wasn’t as refined as some of its competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 MultiJet typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control were also standard. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof and upgraded audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Tipo 357 utilized a McPherson strut independent suspension setup at the front and a torsion beam rear suspension. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs measuring 284 mm, while the rear brakes were drum brakes measuring 228 mm. This combination was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance. Electric power steering provided light and easy steering feel. The chassis was designed to prioritize practicality and affordability over dynamic handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Tipo 1.3 MultiJet was generally well-received for its fuel efficiency and practicality. Critics praised its spacious interior and competitive pricing. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to other diesel-powered hatchbacks in its class, the Tipo offered a good balance of economy and usability. Its fuel economy figures of around 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg) were competitive, and its reliability was generally considered to be good. However, the interior materials and overall refinement weren’t quite on par with some of its more established rivals.
Legacy
The 1.3 MultiJet engine proved to be a reliable and durable unit, and many examples are still on the road today. While not known for exceptional performance, it offered a cost-effective and fuel-efficient option for drivers seeking a practical hatchback. In the used car market, the Tipo 1.3 MultiJet represents a good value proposition, offering a spacious interior, decent fuel economy, and relatively low running costs. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues, which are common in modern diesel engines. Overall, the Tipo 1.3 MultiJet remains a sensible and affordable choice for those seeking a practical and economical hatchback.
