The Fiat Talento Combi 1.6 Ecojet (125 hp) L1H1 N1, produced from 2016 to 2021, represents a practical and versatile offering within the light commercial vehicle segment. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the Talento Combi lineup, it catered to businesses and families needing a spacious, efficient, and relatively affordable vehicle for both passenger and cargo transport. The “Combi” designation signifies a passenger-carrying variant, differentiating it from the panel van versions. This model is based on the Renault Trafic III and Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro B platforms, a result of the collaboration between the PSA Group (now Stellantis) and Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. The L1H1 designation refers to the vehicle’s body length and roof height, indicating a shorter wheelbase and standard roof configuration.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Talento |
| Generation | Talento Combi |
| Type | 1.6 Ecojet (125 Hp) L1H1 N1 |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 145 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 169 km/h (105.01 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.8 kg/Hp, 67.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 173.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R9M 452 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.45:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1847-1859 kg (4071.94 – 4098.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2880-2970 kg (6349.31 – 6547.73 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1033-1111 kg (2277.38 – 2449.34 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3200 l (113.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4999 mm (196.81 in.) |
| Width | 1956 mm (77.01 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2283 mm (89.88 in.) |
| Height | 1971 mm (77.6 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3098 mm (121.97 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear track | 1628 mm (64.09 in.) |
| Front overhang | 933 mm (36.73 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 968 mm (38.11 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.40 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, 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 |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16; 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Talento Combi 1.6 Ecojet utilizes the Renault-developed R9M engine family, specifically the R9M 452 variant. This is a 1.6-liter, inline four-cylinder diesel engine featuring a twin-turbocharger setup with an intercooler. The twin-turbo configuration is crucial for balancing low-end torque with higher-end power delivery. The engine employs a common-rail direct fuel injection system, enabling precise fuel metering and contributing to improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The 15.45:1 compression ratio is typical for modern diesel engines, maximizing thermal efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this trim, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. The engine produces 125 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1500 rpm, making it well-suited for carrying loads and providing adequate acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Ecojet with the 6-speed manual transmission delivers a practical driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides sufficient power for everyday driving and hauling. The readily available torque at low engine speeds makes it easy to navigate city traffic and maintain comfortable cruising speeds on the highway. The gear ratios are well-chosen to optimize fuel economy and provide adequate acceleration in each gear. Compared to higher-output versions of the Talento, such as those with more powerful engines, this variant offers a more economical and relaxed driving experience. It’s noticeably less brisk in acceleration, particularly when fully loaded, but the trade-off is improved fuel efficiency. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control, but requires more driver involvement than an automatic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Talento Combi 1.6 Ecojet L1H1 N1 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and driver and passenger airbags were also standard. The interior typically featured durable cloth upholstery. Optional extras included a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded seating options. The “N1” designation indicates it’s registered as a commercial vehicle, offering potential tax benefits for businesses.
Chassis & Braking
The Talento Combi utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, even when carrying a load. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The hydraulic power steering provides a reasonably light and responsive steering feel. The suspension is tuned for practicality and load-carrying capacity rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Talento Combi 1.6 Ecojet was generally well-received as a practical and affordable light commercial vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior, good fuel economy, and relatively low running costs. Compared to other vans in its class, such as the Volkswagen Transporter and Ford Transit, the Talento offered a competitive price point. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials were not as refined as those found in some of its rivals. The 1.6 Ecojet engine was considered a good compromise between performance and efficiency, but it wasn’t as powerful as some of the larger engine options available in the Talento range.
Legacy
The Fiat Talento Combi 1.6 Ecojet has proven to be a relatively reliable workhorse in the used car market. The R9M engine, while not without its potential issues (such as turbocharger and EGR valve problems), is generally durable when properly maintained. Regular servicing, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. The availability of spare parts is good, thanks to the shared platform with Renault and Opel/Vauxhall. Today, these vans represent a good value proposition for businesses and families seeking a spacious and practical vehicle at a reasonable price.
