The Fiat Tipo (357) Hatchback 1.4 T-Jet, producing 120 horsepower, was a key variant in the Tipo lineup, launched in 2018 and remaining in production through 2020. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to balance performance and fuel efficiency for European buyers seeking a practical and affordable family hatchback. This model represented Fiat’s attempt to recapture market share in the competitive C-segment, offering a modern design and a turbocharged engine in a traditionally value-focused package. It was built on the Small Wide Architecture platform, shared with other Stellantis vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Tipo |
| Generation | Tipo (357) Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 T-Jet (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 163 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 168.6 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 |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.4 l (3.59 US qt | 2.99 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1275 kg (2810.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1775 kg (3913.21 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc, 281 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 264 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 1.4 T-Jet was the 940B7000 engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler. This engine utilized multi-point fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power compared to naturally aspirated engines of similar displacement. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a relatively direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The engine’s design prioritized efficiency and drivability over outright performance, making it suitable for everyday commuting and longer journeys. The turbocharger helped to mitigate turbo lag, providing a reasonably responsive driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 hp 1.4 T-Jet offered a decent level of performance for a family hatchback. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.4 seconds, and top speed was around 124 mph. While not particularly sporty, the engine provided enough power for confident overtaking and merging onto highways. The manual transmission allowed for driver control, but the gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to the more powerful diesel variants, the 1.4 T-Jet felt less effortless at higher speeds, requiring more frequent downshifts. However, it offered a smoother and quieter driving experience than the diesel, and its lighter weight contributed to more agile handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 T-Jet typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and stability control. Higher trim levels added features such as 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 options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Tipo 1.4 T-Jet utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The electric power steering provided light and easy steering, making it convenient for maneuvering in urban environments. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort and stability rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Tipo 1.4 T-Jet was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable family hatchback. It offered a good balance of performance, fuel economy, and equipment for its price point. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials felt somewhat low-rent compared to some of its rivals. Compared to the 1.6-liter diesel variants, the 1.4 T-Jet offered lower fuel economy but a smoother and quieter driving experience. It also provided a more responsive feel than the base 1.2-liter gasoline engine. The Tipo competed with models such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 308.
Legacy
The Fiat Tipo 1.4 T-Jet, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, proved to be a reliable and affordable option for buyers seeking a practical family hatchback. The 940B7000 engine, while not without its quirks, generally proved to be durable and relatively easy to maintain. On the used car market, these models represent good value for money, offering a decent level of equipment and a reasonably efficient powertrain. However, potential buyers should be aware of the typical maintenance requirements for turbocharged engines, such as regular oil changes and inspection of the turbocharger and intercooler.
