The Alfa Romeo Giulietta (Type 940 facelift) 1.6 JTDM 120 horsepower Start&Stop (S&S) model, produced from 2016 to 2018, represented a key offering within the refreshed Giulietta range. This variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance, targeting buyers seeking a practical and economical hatchback with a touch of Italian flair. It sat within the mid-range of the Giulietta lineup, positioned below the more powerful petrol and diesel options, and above the entry-level trims. The facelift brought styling updates and revised equipment levels, enhancing the Giulietta’s appeal in a competitive segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Giulietta |
| Generation | Giulietta (Type 940 facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 JTDM (120 Hp) S&S |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg, 85.6 UK mpg, 30.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 103 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 b |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 91.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 244.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 940C1000 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1310 kg (2888.06 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 4351 mm (171.3 in.) |
| Width | 1798 mm (70.79 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2364 mm (93.07 in.) |
| Front track | 1554 mm (61.18 in.) |
| Rear track | 1554 mm (61.18 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
INTRODUCTION
The 2016-2018 Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1.6 JTDM 120 hp S&S is a front-wheel-drive, five-door hatchback that formed a significant part of Alfa Romeo’s European lineup. Built on the Fiat-Chrysler C-segment platform (often referred to as the 940 series), the Giulietta aimed to blend Italian styling with practical everyday usability. The “JTDM” designation signifies a common-rail direct injection diesel engine, and the “S&S” indicates the inclusion of a Start&Stop system designed to improve fuel economy. This particular variant was positioned as a sensible choice for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and lower running costs, without sacrificing the Alfa Romeo driving experience entirely.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Giulietta 1.6 JTDM 120 hp S&S lies the 940C1000 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a second-generation MultiJet common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, with four valves per cylinder. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a relatively conventional gear ratio spread. The Start&Stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) and restarts it when the clutch is depressed, contributing to fuel savings.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 JTDM 120 hp variant of the Giulietta offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) took around 10 seconds. While not particularly quick, the engine provided sufficient torque for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The manual transmission, while not sporty, was precise and easy to use. Compared to the more powerful 170 hp diesel or the petrol versions, this variant felt less eager to rev, but offered significantly better fuel economy. The suspension setup provided a good balance between comfort and handling, typical of Alfa Romeo’s DNA, though it wasn’t as firm or focused as some of its rivals.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 JTDM 120 hp S&S typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and stability control. Higher trim levels, often denoted by names like “Veloce” or “Quadrifoglio Verde” (though these were usually reserved for the more powerful engines), added features such as alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, a touchscreen infotainment system, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather available on higher trims. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Giulietta’s chassis featured an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were also ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The electric power steering provided a light and responsive feel. The Giulietta’s suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort and stability, making it a pleasant car to drive on a variety of road surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Giulietta 1.6 JTDM 120 hp S&S was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical hatchback. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and stylish design. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the excitement of the more powerful options. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra, the Giulietta offered a more distinctive Italian flair, but often at a slightly higher price point. The 1.6 JTDM offered significantly better fuel economy than the petrol engines, and was a more affordable alternative to the 2.0 JTDM models.
Legacy
The 1.6 JTDM engine proved to be a reliable unit, and well-maintained examples of the Giulietta 1.6 JTDM 120 hp S&S continue to be available on the used car market. While not known for being exceptionally cheap to repair, the engine itself is generally robust. The Giulietta, as a whole, didn’t achieve the same sales success as some of its rivals, but it remains a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and practical hatchback with a touch of Italian character. The combination of fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and Alfa Romeo’s distinctive design makes this variant a compelling option for used car buyers.
