The Fiat Fiorino, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2016 with the 1.4 8V (77 horsepower) engine, represents an entry-level offering within the compact van segment. Positioned as a practical and affordable vehicle, the Fiorino caters to small businesses, tradespeople, and individuals requiring a versatile cargo and passenger solution. This iteration of the Fiorino falls under the broader Project 222 collaboration between Fiat and Peugeot-Citroën, sharing its platform and many components with the Peugeot Bipper and Citroën Nemo. Production of this variant spanned from 2016 onwards, building upon the foundation laid by the original Fiorino introduced in 2008.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Fiorino |
| Generation | Fiorino (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 8V (77 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 2-5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 161 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 157 km/h (97.56 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 77 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 3000 rpm (84.82 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 350 A1.000 |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 11.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.6 l (2.75 US qt | 2.29 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1070 kg (2358.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1680 kg (3703.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2800 l (98.88 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3957 mm (155.79 in.) |
| Width | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Height | 1721 mm (67.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2513 mm (98.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1469 mm (57.83 in.) |
| Rear track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14; 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 2016 Fiat Fiorino 1.4 8V utilizes the Fiat 350 A1.000 engine, a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder petrol engine displacing 1.4 liters (1368 cc). This engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system, providing adequate, though not exceptional, combustion control. The engine produces 77 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 115 Nm (84.82 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. The engine’s relatively simple design prioritizes reliability and affordability over outright performance. The Fiorino is paired with a standard five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and efficiency. An automated manual transmission (Dualogic) was offered as an option, but the standard manual was far more common.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 8V engine in the Fiorino delivers modest performance. Acceleration is adequate for urban driving and light loads, but becomes noticeably strained when fully loaded or tackling inclines. The five-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering reasonable gear spacing. Compared to potential higher-output engine options (not widely available in the Fiorino), this variant prioritizes fuel economy over spirited driving. The gear ratios are tuned for maximizing fuel efficiency rather than providing quick acceleration. The Fiorino’s light weight helps mitigate the engine’s limited power, making it feel more responsive than its horsepower figure might suggest. The driving experience is best described as utilitarian – focused on practicality and ease of use rather than driving enjoyment.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2016 Fiat Fiorino 1.4 8V typically came equipped with basic, functional features. Standard equipment generally included power steering, central locking, and an adjustable steering column. Safety features included ABS brakes and driver and passenger airbags. Interior trim was typically basic, with durable plastic materials and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, when available, added features such as air conditioning, a radio with MP3 compatibility, and electric windows. Optional extras included a passenger airbag deactivation switch (for load carrying), rear parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems. The Fiorino’s interior prioritizes durability and ease of cleaning over luxury or aesthetic appeal.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiorino utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capability. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The Fiorino’s relatively lightweight construction contributes to its manageable handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were typically not standard equipment on the base 1.4 8V model, further emphasizing its focus on affordability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Fiorino 1.4 8V was generally well-received as a practical and affordable light commercial vehicle. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its limited performance. Compared to other trims within the Fiorino lineup, the 1.4 8V represented the entry-level option, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy of around 34.1 US mpg combined was competitive within its class. Reliability was generally considered good, owing to the engine’s simple design. However, the lack of power and basic interior appointments were common criticisms.
Legacy
The Fiat Fiorino 1.4 8V has established a reputation as a reliable and economical workhorse in the used car market. The engine’s simplicity contributes to its long-term durability, and maintenance costs are generally low. While not known for its performance, the 1.4 8V powertrain has proven to be reasonably robust. Today, these Fiorinos are often found in the hands of small businesses and tradespeople who appreciate their practicality and affordability. The availability of spare parts remains good, ensuring that these vehicles can be kept on the road for many years to come. The 2016 facelifted model represents a refined version of the original Fiorino, offering improved styling and updated features while retaining the core values of practicality and affordability.
