The Fiat Egea (project code 356), marketed in some regions as the Tipo, represents Fiat’s entry into the competitive C-segment sedan market. Introduced in 2016 and produced through 2019 for this generation, the Egea aimed to offer a practical and affordable vehicle with a focus on comfort and fuel efficiency. The 1.6 E-Torq variant, equipped with a 110 horsepower engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, occupied a mid-range position within the Egea lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a balance between performance and convenience. This configuration was particularly popular in markets where automatic transmissions were highly desired, such as certain parts of Europe and Latin America.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Egea |
| Generation | Egea (356) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 E-Torq (110 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 146 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 91.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm, 126.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 152 Nm @ 4500 rpm (112.11 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 55268036 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1705 kg (3758.88 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) |
| Max. roof load | 55 kg (121.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 800 kg (1763.7 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.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2002 mm (78.82 in.) |
| Height | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 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 | 1003 mm (39.49 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 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, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc, 284×22 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 228×40 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Egea variant is the 1.6-liter E-Torq inline-four cylinder engine, designated with engine code 55268036. This engine is a naturally aspirated unit, meaning it doesn’t employ turbocharging or supercharging. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system, providing a balance between efficiency and performance. The engine produces 110 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 152 Nm (112 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth and convenient gear changes. This transmission isn’t known for particularly rapid shifts, but prioritizes comfort and ease of use. The engine’s architecture is relatively simple, contributing to its generally good reliability.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 E-Torq automatic Egea delivers a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 11.2 seconds, which is typical for a naturally aspirated engine of this displacement in a vehicle of this weight. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy and smooth cruising, rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic suffers a slight performance penalty due to the transmission’s inherent inefficiencies. Higher-output engine options, such as the diesel variants, offered significantly more responsive performance. However, the automatic transmission provides a level of convenience that many drivers prioritize, especially in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 E-Torq automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features generally included ABS brakes, airbags for the driver and front passenger, and seatbelt pretensioners. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over stylistic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Egea’s chassis utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are disc brakes, measuring 284x22mm, while the rear brakes are drum brakes, sized at 228x40mm. This configuration was common for vehicles in this price segment, prioritizing cost-effectiveness. The electric power steering provides light and easy steering feel, making it well-suited for city driving. Stabilizer bars were included on both axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Egea 1.6 E-Torq automatic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family sedan. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of outright power and the automatic transmission’s somewhat sluggish performance. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.6 E-Torq offered lower running costs in terms of fuel price, but sacrificed fuel efficiency. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Jetta and Skoda Octavia, the Egea offered a more affordable price point, but lacked the same level of refinement and brand prestige.
Legacy
The 1.6 E-Torq engine, while not a groundbreaking design, proved to be a relatively reliable unit. The automatic transmission, when properly maintained, also demonstrated good durability. In the used car market, the Egea 1.6 E-Torq automatic represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and practical sedan. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s modest power output and the transmission’s less-than-sporty character. Overall, the Egea 1.6 E-Torq automatic remains a viable option for those prioritizing comfort, affordability, and ease of use.
