The Fiat 500L Living/Wagon 1.3 MultiJetII (85 hp) Dualogic, produced from 2013 to 2014, represents a unique offering within the broader 500L range. Positioned as a practical, family-oriented variant, it distinguished itself with its seven-seat configuration and the availability of Fiat’s Dualogic automated manual transmission. This model aimed to bridge the gap between the stylish, city-focused 500 and the need for a more spacious and versatile vehicle, particularly appealing to European families. It was built on the B-segment platform, specifically the 1HX0/A3 platform shared with other Stellantis vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | 500L |
| Generation | 500L Living/Wagon |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 MultiJetII (85 Hp) Dualogic 7 Seat |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 105 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 164 km/h (101.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.4 kg/Hp, 64.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 152.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 85 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 199B4000 |
| 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 | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1310 kg (2888.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1584 l (55.94 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Length | 4352 mm (171.34 in.) |
| Width | 1784 mm (70.24 in.) |
| Height | 1667 mm (65.63 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2612 mm (102.83 in.) |
| Front track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1519 mm (59.8 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Dualogic |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 500L 1.3 MultiJetII lies Fiat’s 199B4000 engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a second-generation MultiJet design, incorporating common-rail direct injection and a variable geometry turbocharger. The MultiJet technology allows for multiple fuel injections per combustion cycle, improving efficiency and reducing noise. The 85 hp output is achieved at 3500 rpm, while peak torque of 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) is delivered at a low 1500 rpm, emphasizing usability and fuel economy. The engine features a compression ratio of 16.8:1. Paired with this engine is the Dualogic transmission, a five-speed automated manual gearbox. Dualogic utilizes electro-hydraulic actuators to shift gears, offering a degree of automation without the full complexity (and cost) of a traditional automatic transmission. It essentially automates the clutch and gear selection of a standard manual transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 MultiJetII with the Dualogic transmission delivers a driving experience focused on economy and practicality rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 16.3 seconds, and top speed is limited to 164 km/h (101.9 mph). The Dualogic transmission, while convenient, isn’t known for its speed or smoothness. Shifts can be somewhat jerky, particularly at lower speeds, and the system sometimes exhibits a noticeable delay when selecting a gear. Compared to the manual version of the same engine, the Dualogic offers less driver engagement. However, the low-end torque of the 1.3 MultiJetII makes it reasonably capable for everyday driving, and the relatively long gear ratios prioritize fuel efficiency. It’s noticeably slower than higher-powered 500L variants, such as those equipped with the 1.6 MultiJet engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 500L Living/Wagon 1.3 MultiJetII Dualogic 7-seat model typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional, if not luxurious, design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. The “Living” designation indicated a focus on family-friendly features, such as the seven-seat configuration and increased cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The 500L utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride, although it’s not particularly sporty. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing adequate precision for everyday driving. The weight distribution is fairly balanced, contributing to predictable handling. The 1310 kg (2888.06 lbs) curb weight is relatively light for a seven-seat vehicle, which helps to mitigate the effects of the modest engine output.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat 500L Living/Wagon 1.3 MultiJetII Dualogic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and versatility. However, the Dualogic transmission was often criticized for its lack of refinement. Compared to other 500L variants, the 1.3 MultiJetII offered the best fuel economy but the slowest performance. The 1.6 MultiJet, while more expensive, provided a significantly more enjoyable driving experience. The 1.4 petrol engine offered a smoother, if less efficient, alternative. In terms of reliability, the 1.3 MultiJetII engine is generally considered to be robust, but the Dualogic transmission can be prone to issues if not properly maintained.
Legacy
The Fiat 500L Living/Wagon 1.3 MultiJetII Dualogic remains a relatively common sight on European roads. The 1.3 MultiJetII engine has proven to be durable and relatively inexpensive to maintain, making it a popular choice in the used car market. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues with the Dualogic transmission and ensure it has been regularly serviced. While not a performance icon, this variant carved a niche for itself as a practical, economical, and family-friendly option within the 500L lineup, offering a unique combination of space, efficiency, and affordability.
