The Fiat Ulysse II, specifically the 2.2 16V JTD variant producing 128 horsepower, was a key model in Fiat’s European minivan lineup from 2002 to 2006. Part of the 179 series, the Ulysse II represented a significant update to the original Ulysse, sharing its platform and much of its mechanical underpinnings with the Peugeot 806 and Citroën Espace, a result of the collaborative venture between these European automakers. This generation aimed to provide a spacious and practical vehicle for families, prioritizing comfort and versatility over outright performance. The 2.2 JTD 128 hp model occupied a middle ground in the Ulysse II range, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and affordability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Ulysse |
| Generation | Ulysse II (179) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 16V JTD (128 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg, 28 UK mpg, 9.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp, 71.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 176.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 128 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 314 Nm @ 2000 rpm (231.59 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4HW DW12ATED4 |
| Engine displacement | 2179 cm3 (132.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.75 l (5.02 US qt | 4.18 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.3 l (11.94 US qt | 9.94 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1783 kg (3930.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2505 kg (5522.58 lbs.) |
| Max load | 722 kg (1591.74 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 324 l (11.44 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2948 l (104.11 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4730 mm (186.22 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2825 mm (111.22 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Ulysse II 2.2 JTD was the DW12ATED4 engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine developed jointly by PSA (Peugeot-Citroën) and Fiat. This engine utilized a common rail direct injection system, a technology that significantly improved fuel efficiency and reduced noise compared to older diesel injection methods. The 16-valve cylinder head, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler, helped to boost power output to 128 horsepower and 314 Nm (231.59 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine’s design prioritized low-end torque, making it well-suited for hauling passengers and cargo. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a relatively direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The engine code ‘4HW’ is specific to Fiat applications of this engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2 JTD 128 hp Ulysse II offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 12.6 seconds, and top speed was limited to 182 km/h (113 mph). While not quick, the engine provided sufficient power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The manual transmission allowed for a degree of driver control, but the gear ratios were geared towards fuel economy rather than performance. Compared to higher-output versions of the Ulysse II, such as those equipped with the 2.0 JTD 16V engine, the 2.2 JTD felt less responsive, especially when fully loaded. However, it offered a smoother and more refined driving experience than the lower-powered 1.9-liter diesel options.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 JTD 128 hp Ulysse II typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included power windows, central locking, air conditioning, and an adjustable steering wheel. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a CD stereo system, and rear parking sensors. The Ulysse II was designed with practicality in mind, offering a flexible interior with configurable seating arrangements. The rear seats could be folded or removed entirely to maximize cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The Ulysse II utilized a conventional front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a coil spring suspension at the rear. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride even on uneven surfaces. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, assisted by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The steering was a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering reasonable precision and feedback.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Ulysse II 2.2 JTD 128 hp was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and comfortable family vehicle. It was praised for its spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, and fuel-efficient engine. However, some critics noted its lack of dynamic flair and its relatively slow acceleration. Compared to the 2.0 JTD, the 2.2 offered a more relaxed driving experience, but at the expense of outright performance. The 1.9 JTD models were more economical but lacked the power needed for comfortable highway cruising when fully loaded.
Legacy
The Fiat Ulysse II 2.2 JTD has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The DW12ATED4 engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance is essential to prevent issues with the turbocharger and fuel injection system. In the used car market, the Ulysse II 2.2 JTD represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious and practical minivan. Its combination of fuel efficiency, comfort, and affordability makes it a popular choice for families and those needing a versatile vehicle for work or leisure.
