The Fiat 500X Urban 1.6 MultiJet II (120 Hp) DCT, produced from August 2018 to January 2020, represents a key variant within the refreshed first-generation (338) 500X lineup. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance for the European crossover market. This model was part of Fiat’s strategy to broaden the 500 family’s appeal beyond the city car segment, offering a more practical and spacious vehicle while retaining the brand’s distinctive styling. The facelift brought updated aesthetics and refined powertrain options, with the 1.6 MultiJet II diesel being a popular choice for drivers prioritizing economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | 500X |
| Generation | 500X Urban (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 MultiJet II (120 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | August, 2018 |
| End of production | January, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.0-5.5 l/100 km (47 – 42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5-4.9 l/100 km (52.3 – 48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7-5.1 l/100 km (50 – 46.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 122-134 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 186 km/h (115.58 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 90.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 242.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 55260384 |
| 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 | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1000 l (35.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4264 mm (167.87 in.) |
| Width | 1796 mm (70.71 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2025 mm (79.72 in.) |
| Height | 1603 mm (63.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm (101.18 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 157 mm (6.18 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.05 m (36.25 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 500X Urban 1.6 MultiJet II is the Fiat-developed 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, bearing the code 55260384. This engine is a member of the MultiJet II family, known for its common-rail direct injection system and turbocharging. The MultiJet II technology allows for multiple injections per combustion cycle, optimizing fuel burn and reducing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). The engine produces 120 horsepower at 3750 rpm and a substantial 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1750 rpm. This torque output is a key characteristic of the engine, providing good low-end responsiveness and making it well-suited for everyday driving. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Paired with the engine is a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This DCT provides quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to a more engaging driving experience compared to a traditional automatic transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 MultiJet II with the DCT offers a comfortable and efficient driving experience. While not a performance-oriented setup, the 320 Nm of torque provides adequate acceleration for merging onto highways and overtaking. The DCT transmission contributes to brisk shifts, and the engine feels responsive in most driving situations. Compared to the 1.4-liter petrol versions of the 500X, the 1.6 MultiJet II offers significantly better fuel economy and a more relaxed cruising experience. However, it lacks the outright punch of the higher-powered petrol engines. The gear ratios in the DCT are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel economy over outright acceleration. The engine is relatively quiet for a diesel, thanks to the MultiJet II technology, but some diesel clatter is still noticeable, particularly at idle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Urban trim level of the 500X, as offered with the 1.6 MultiJet II engine, typically included features such as air conditioning, a 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Standard safety equipment included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras available for this trim included a larger 7-inch touchscreen with navigation, rear parking sensors, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded upholstery. The interior generally featured a mix of cloth and vinyl upholstery, with a dashboard design that echoed the retro-modern styling of the standard 500.
Chassis & Braking
The 500X Urban 1.6 MultiJet II utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with independent suspension at the front (MacPherson strut) and a torsion beam setup at the rear. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride over most road surfaces. The torsion beam rear suspension is a cost-effective solution, but it doesn’t offer the same level of sophistication as a fully independent rear suspension. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat 500X 1.6 MultiJet II DCT was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient crossover. Reviewers praised its comfortable ride, stylish interior, and the responsiveness of the diesel engine and DCT transmission. However, some criticized its relatively high price compared to competitors and the limited rear passenger space. Compared to the petrol-powered 500X variants, the 1.6 MultiJet II offered significantly better fuel economy – around 4.7-5.1 l/100km (50-46.1 US mpg) – making it a popular choice for drivers covering long distances. The diesel version also held its value slightly better in the used car market due to its fuel efficiency and reputation for reliability.
Legacy
The 1.6 MultiJet II engine, in general, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain when properly maintained. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly on vehicles used primarily for short trips, and occasional injector problems. The DCT transmission is generally robust, but regular servicing with the correct fluid is crucial to prevent issues. Today, the 500X Urban 1.6 MultiJet II represents a good value proposition in the used car market, offering a stylish and economical crossover with a proven powertrain. Its blend of Italian design, diesel efficiency, and modern transmission technology continues to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and distinctive vehicle.
