The Fiat Ottimo 1.4 T-Jet (150 hp) was a compact hatchback produced between 2014 and 2017. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Ottimo lineup, it aimed to provide a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The Ottimo itself was a rebadged version of the Dodge Dart, a product of Fiat’s ownership of Chrysler. This model was primarily sold in European and Asian markets, offering a more refined and fuel-conscious alternative to larger Fiat models. It was built on the CUSW (Compact US Wide) platform, shared with the Dodge Dart and Jeep Cherokee.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Ottimo |
| Generation | Ottimo |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 T-Jet (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.0 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 196 km/h (121.79 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 162.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 109.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 3000 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 343A0027 |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1415 kg (3119.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 347 l (12.25 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1253 l (44.25 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4545 mm (178.94 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2708 mm (106.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| 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 | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Ottimo 1.4 T-Jet was the 343A0027 engine, a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder. This engine was a member of Fiat’s “Fire” family of engines, known for its compact size and relatively simple design. The “T-Jet” designation indicated the presence of a turbocharger and direct fuel injection. Specifically, this engine utilized multi-point fuel injection, delivering fuel into the intake ports rather than directly into the combustion chamber. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, boosted power output to 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a relatively direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, though some reviewers found the shift quality to be somewhat notchy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 T-Jet Ottimo offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to lower-spec models equipped with smaller, naturally aspirated engines. While not a sports car, the turbocharger provided a useful boost of power for overtaking and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.4 seconds, and the top speed was rated at 196 km/h (121.79 mph). The manual transmission allowed for a degree of driver engagement, but the engine’s peak torque arriving at 3000 rpm meant that frequent downshifts were often necessary to maintain momentum. Compared to the more powerful engines available in the Dodge Dart (such as the 2.4-liter four-cylinder), the 1.4 T-Jet prioritized fuel efficiency over outright speed. The suspension was tuned for comfort, resulting in a relatively soft ride, but this also meant that the Ottimo wasn’t particularly engaging in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 T-Jet Ottimo typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, cruise control, and fog lights. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather available on some models. The dashboard layout was functional but not particularly stylish, reflecting the Ottimo’s value-oriented positioning. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Ottimo 1.4 T-Jet utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup was a common choice for compact hatchbacks, offering a good balance of cost, weight, and ride comfort. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety in emergency braking situations. The electric power steering provided light and easy steering, but lacked the feedback of a hydraulic system. The tires were typically 205/55 R16, offering a reasonable compromise between grip and rolling resistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Ottimo 1.4 T-Jet was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient hatchback. However, some reviewers criticized the interior quality and the somewhat unrefined driving experience. Compared to other compact hatchbacks in its class, such as the Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus, the Ottimo offered a lower price point but lacked the same level of sophistication. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the 1.4 T-Jet achieving around 7.0 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg) in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the turbocharger and fuel injection system.
Legacy
The Fiat Ottimo, and specifically the 1.4 T-Jet variant, has become a relatively affordable used car option. The 1.4 T-Jet engine, while not known for being exceptionally durable, has proven to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues include turbocharger failure and carbon buildup on the intake valves. The availability of spare parts is generally good, but some components may be specific to the Ottimo/Dart platform. Today, the Ottimo 1.4 T-Jet represents a budget-friendly choice for those seeking a practical and reasonably efficient hatchback, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the turbocharged engine.
