The Fiat 500L Living/Wagon 1.3 MultiJetII (85 hp) Dualogic was a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by Fiat between 2013 and 2014. Positioned as a more practical and spacious derivative of the popular Fiat 500, the 500L aimed to broaden Fiat’s appeal to families and those requiring increased cargo capacity. The “Living/Wagon” designation refers to the extended wheelbase version, offering significantly more rear passenger legroom and a larger trunk compared to the standard 500L. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.3 MultiJetII diesel engine and Fiat’s Dualogic automated manual transmission, represented an entry-level option within the 500L range, prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | 500L |
| Generation | 500L Living/Wagon |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 MultiJetII (85 Hp) Dualogic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| 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 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 164 km/h (101.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.5 kg/Hp, 64.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 151.5 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 | 1320 kg (2910.1 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 |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this 500L variant is Fiat’s 1.3 MultiJetII diesel engine, identified by the engine code 199B4000. This is a common rail, direct injection diesel engine known for its fuel efficiency and relatively low emissions. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. The MultiJetII technology utilizes multiple injection pulses per combustion cycle, optimizing fuel atomization and combustion efficiency. The engine produces 85 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque at 1500 rpm. This torque figure, available from relatively low engine speeds, is a key characteristic of diesel engines and contributes to the 500L’s usability in everyday driving. The engine is paired with Fiat’s Dualogic automated manual transmission, a five-speed gearbox that automates the clutch and gear changes. Dualogic is essentially a conventional manual gearbox with robotic actuators controlling the clutch and gear selection, offering a degree of convenience without the full complexity (and cost) of a traditional automatic transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 MultiJetII engine, while not particularly powerful, provides adequate performance for the 500L Living/Wagon. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 15.2 seconds, and the top speed is 164 km/h (101.9 mph). The Dualogic transmission, however, can exhibit some hesitation during gear changes, particularly at lower speeds. This is a common characteristic of early automated manual transmissions. Compared to the more powerful 1.4-liter petrol engine or the higher-output versions of the 1.3 MultiJet, this variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, resulting in a relaxed cruising experience but requiring more planning when overtaking. The readily available torque, however, makes it feel more responsive than its horsepower figure suggests.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 MultiJetII Dualogic trim typically included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features included ABS brakes, electronic stability control (ESC), and airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system, and upgraded interior trim materials. The 500L Living/Wagon aimed for a balance between affordability and practicality, and this trim level reflected that ethos.
Chassis & Braking
The 500L Living/Wagon utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not particularly sporty. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is rack and pinion, providing reasonable precision. The 500L’s weight of 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs) is relatively moderate for its class, contributing to its manageable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat 500L Living/Wagon 1.3 MultiJetII Dualogic was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and spaciousness. However, the Dualogic transmission was often criticized for its jerky gear changes and lack of refinement. Compared to other MPVs in the segment, the 500L offered a distinctive style and a more engaging driving experience, but it lacked the outright practicality of some competitors. The 1.3 MultiJetII engine offered significantly better fuel economy than the petrol alternatives, making it a popular choice for those covering long distances. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the Dualogic transmission.
Legacy
The Fiat 500L Living/Wagon, and particularly the 1.3 MultiJetII Dualogic variant, has become a relatively affordable option on the used car market. The 1.3 MultiJetII engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance is essential. The Dualogic transmission remains a potential weak point, and prospective buyers should be aware of its limitations. Despite its quirks, the 500L Living/Wagon offers a practical and stylish alternative to traditional MPVs, and its fuel efficiency continues to appeal to budget-conscious buyers.
