The Fiat Tipo (357) Hatchback 1.4 (120 Hp) LPG, produced between 2016 and 2018, represents a specific configuration within the broader Tipo range. The Tipo, revived in 2016 after a two-decade hiatus, aimed to offer a practical and affordable family car, primarily targeted at the European market. This particular variant, combining a 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine with LPG capability and a six-speed manual transmission, occupied a mid-range position in the lineup, offering a balance between performance, economy, and cost. It was positioned as an alternative to diesel models, appealing to buyers seeking lower running costs without sacrificing too much power.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Tipo |
| Generation | Tipo (357) Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (120 Hp) LPG |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (LPG) | 11.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (LPG) | 6.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (LPG) | 8.3 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 146 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (LPG) | 135 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / LPG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp, 86.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 155.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 215 Nm @ 2500 rpm (158.58 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 940B7000 |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.1 l (3.28 US qt | 2.73 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1385 kg (3053.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1885 kg (4155.71 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) |
| Fuel tank capacity (LPG) | 53 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 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.) |
| Front overhang | 893 mm (35.16 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 837 mm (32.95 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.93 m (35.86 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| 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 this Tipo variant is the 940B7000 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is turbocharged and features multi-point fuel injection, along with an intercooler to enhance performance. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power compared to naturally aspirated engines of similar displacement. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 215 Nm (158.58 lb-ft) of torque at 2500 rpm. The addition of an LPG conversion allows the engine to run on both petrol and liquefied petroleum gas, offering potential fuel cost savings. The six-speed manual transmission provides precise gear changes and allows the driver to fully utilize the engine’s power band. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, paired with the manual transmission, delivers a reasonably engaging driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the turbocharger provides sufficient power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 10.1 seconds. Compared to the base 1.2-liter engine, this variant offers a significant improvement in performance. However, it doesn’t match the responsiveness of higher-spec engines like the 1.6-liter diesel. The manual gearbox allows for greater driver control, but the clutch pedal can feel slightly heavier than some competitors. The LPG system doesn’t significantly detract from the driving experience, although a slight reduction in power is noticeable when running on gas.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 (120 Hp) LPG variant typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as 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 a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and navigation.
Chassis & Braking
The Tipo (357) Hatchback utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday driving. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than outright handling prowess, but it offers adequate stability and grip in most driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Tipo 1.4 (120 Hp) LPG was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable family car. It offered a good balance of performance, economy, and equipment. The LPG conversion was seen as a significant benefit, particularly in countries with high petrol prices. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.4 LPG offered a quieter and smoother driving experience, but with slightly higher fuel consumption when running on petrol. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the Tipo offered a more affordable price point, but with a slightly less refined interior and driving experience.
Legacy
The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, in both petrol and LPG forms, has proven to be relatively reliable. Common issues include occasional turbocharger problems and potential issues with the LPG conversion system. However, with regular maintenance, these engines can provide many years of service. In the used car market, the Tipo 1.4 (120 Hp) LPG represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and practical family car. The LPG conversion adds to its appeal, offering potential fuel cost savings. The Tipo, as a whole, helped Fiat regain a foothold in the competitive European family car segment, and this variant played a role in offering a diverse range of options to consumers.
