The Fiat Marea (185) 2.0 i 20V Turbo, produced between 2000 and 2002, represented the performance pinnacle of the Marea range. Positioned as the flagship trim, it offered a significant step up in power and driving experience compared to the lower-spec engines. The Marea itself was a mid-size family car designed to replace the aging Tipo, and the 185 series, introduced in 1998, brought updated styling and mechanical improvements. This 2.0-liter turbocharged variant was primarily aimed at drivers seeking a sporty and capable sedan, offering a blend of performance and practicality. It was largely a European market vehicle, with limited presence in North America.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Marea |
| Generation | Marea (185) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 i 20V Turbo (182 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2002 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 227 km/h (141.05 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 138.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 182 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 264 Nm @ 2750 rpm (194.72 lb.-ft. @ 2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 185 A4.011 |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.65 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Kerb Weight | 1310 kg (2888.06 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1790 kg (3946.27 lbs) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 400 l (14.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Length | 4395 mm (173.03 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2540 mm (100 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Marea 2.0 i 20V Turbo is the 185 A4.011 engine, a 1.998-liter inline-five cylinder powerplant. This engine utilized a Garrett turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output to 182 horsepower. The engine featured multi-port fuel injection and a 20-valve cylinder head (four valves per cylinder) contributing to its strong performance. The inline-five configuration, while less common than inline-fours or V6s, offered a good balance of smoothness and power delivery. The engine’s turbocharger provided significant boost, resulting in a noticeable increase in torque compared to the naturally aspirated versions of the Marea. The five-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine, designed to handle the increased power and torque.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 i 20V Turbo Marea offered a distinctly more engaging driving experience than its lower-powered siblings. Acceleration to 60 mph was achieved in around 7.4 seconds, and it boasted a top speed of 141 mph. The turbocharger meant that peak torque was available from relatively low engine speeds (2750 rpm), providing strong pull for overtaking and effortless cruising. The five-speed manual transmission allowed for precise control, and the gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s powerband. Compared to the 1.8-liter or 2.0-liter non-turbo versions, the turbocharged engine felt significantly more responsive and powerful. While not a dedicated sports sedan, the Marea 2.0 Turbo offered a level of performance that was uncommon in its class.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As the top-of-the-line Marea, the 2.0 i 20V Turbo typically came well-equipped. Standard features included power windows, central locking, power steering, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available. Air conditioning was standard, and higher-spec models could be equipped with features like a sunroof, alloy wheels, and a more advanced audio system. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over flashy design. The overall interior ambiance was comfortable and practical, reflecting the Marea’s role as a family car.
Chassis & Braking
The Marea 185 series featured independent suspension at the front, utilizing a wishbone setup, and a coil spring rear suspension. This configuration provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering strong stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The ABS system further enhanced braking performance and safety. The chassis was reinforced compared to the lower-spec models to handle the increased power and torque of the turbocharged engine. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Marea 2.0 i 20V Turbo was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its strong performance and comfortable ride. It was often compared favorably to other mid-size sedans of the time, such as the Ford Mondeo and Opel Vectra. However, some critics noted that the Marea’s styling was somewhat conservative. Fuel economy was reasonable for a turbocharged engine, but not exceptional. Reliability was generally good, although the turbocharger did add a potential point of failure. Compared to the naturally aspirated Marea variants, the 2.0 Turbo offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher purchase price and potentially higher maintenance costs.
Legacy
The Fiat Marea 2.0 i 20V Turbo remains a relatively rare and sought-after vehicle among enthusiasts. The inline-five turbocharged engine is particularly appreciated for its unique character and strong performance. While not known for being exceptionally common, the 185 A4.011 engine is generally considered to be durable if properly maintained. In the used car market, well-maintained examples of the Marea 2.0 Turbo can command a premium price. The car represents a high point in Fiat’s mid-size sedan offerings, and its combination of performance, practicality, and relative rarity has ensured its continued appeal to collectors and enthusiasts.
