The Fiat Talento Crew Cab 1.6 Ecojet (125 hp) L1H1, produced from 2016 to 2021, represents a versatile offering within the light commercial vehicle segment. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the Talento Crew Cab lineup, it catered to businesses and families needing both cargo space and passenger capacity. The Talento itself is a rebadged version of the Renault Trafic, a collaboration stemming from the Renault-Nissan-Fiat alliance. This particular variant, with its 1.6-liter diesel engine and six-speed manual transmission, aimed to balance fuel efficiency with adequate performance for typical commercial duties and family transport. The L1H1 designation refers to the vehicle’s body length and roof height – a standard length and standard height configuration.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Talento |
| Generation | Talento Crew Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Ecojet (125 Hp) L1H1 |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 155 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 174 km/h (108.12 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.9 kg/Hp, 67.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.7 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 | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1864 kg (4109.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2835-2845 kg (6250.11 – 6272.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 971-981 kg (2140.69 – 2162.73 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 (Back) track | 1628 mm (64.09 in.) |
| Front overhang | 933 mm (36.73 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 968 mm (38.11 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.40 m (40.68 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type 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 Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16; 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Fiat Talento Crew Cab 1.6 Ecojet (125 hp) L1H1, launched in 2016 and continuing through 2021, is a commercial vehicle designed to bridge the gap between cargo transport and passenger comfort. Built upon the shared platform with the Renault Trafic (the 1HX0/A3 platform), the Talento aimed to provide a practical solution for businesses requiring a flexible vehicle capable of carrying both goods and personnel. The Crew Cab configuration specifically adds a second row of seats, increasing passenger capacity to six, making it suitable for tradespeople, shuttle services, or families needing ample space. This 1.6 Ecojet variant, with its 125 horsepower output, represented a balance between affordability, fuel economy, and usability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Talento Crew Cab 1.6 Ecojet is the R9M 452 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine is turbocharged, and more specifically, twin-turbocharged, with an intercooler to increase air density and improve power output. This configuration helps to mitigate turbo lag and provide a broader torque curve. The engine produces 125 hp at 3500 rpm and a respectable 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque at just 1500 rpm. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a good balance of fuel efficiency and driver control. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for maximizing torque delivery at lower speeds, ideal for hauling loads or navigating urban environments.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Ecojet engine, paired with the six-speed manual transmission, delivers a driving experience focused on practicality rather than outright performance. While not a particularly quick vehicle, the 320 Nm of torque available from 1500 rpm provides sufficient pulling power for most tasks. Acceleration is adequate, but the engine does need to be revved to access its peak horsepower. Compared to higher-output versions of the Talento, such as those with more powerful diesel engines, this variant feels less strained when fully loaded. The manual transmission allows for precise control, and the gear ratios are well-suited to both city driving and highway cruising. The relatively low engine output does contribute to improved fuel economy compared to the more powerful options.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Talento Crew Cab 1.6 Ecojet L1H1 typically came equipped with a functional, rather than luxurious, interior. Standard features included air conditioning, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and power windows. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and driver and passenger airbags were also standard. The Crew Cab configuration features a second row of seats, typically with a 60/40 split-folding arrangement for flexible cargo space. Optional extras included a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and upgraded interior trim. The interior materials were durable and designed for longevity, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics.
Chassis & Braking
The Talento Crew Cab 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 reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The hydraulic power steering provides a light and responsive feel. The vehicle’s weight, around 1864 kg (4109 lbs) unladen, contributes to a stable and planted feel on the road. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Talento Crew Cab 1.6 Ecojet was generally well-received as a practical and affordable commercial vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior, versatile Crew Cab configuration, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.6-liter engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or when tackling steep inclines. Compared to the more powerful diesel variants, this version offered a lower purchase price and improved fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for businesses prioritizing cost-effectiveness. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Transporter and Ford Transit Custom, the Talento offered a competitive price point and a generous standard equipment list.
Legacy
The Fiat Talento Crew Cab 1.6 Ecojet has established a reputation for reliability, particularly the R9M engine. While not without its potential issues (like any diesel engine, it can be susceptible to DPF problems if not properly maintained), the engine is generally considered robust and long-lasting. On the used car market, these Talento models represent good value for money, offering a practical and versatile vehicle at an affordable price. The availability of spare parts is good, thanks to the shared platform with the Renault Trafic. The 1.6 Ecojet engine, while not the most powerful option, provides a good balance of fuel economy and reliability, making it a popular choice for businesses and families alike.
