The Lancia Musa, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2007, represented a unique offering in the compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment. This iteration, produced through 2012, aimed to blend Italian styling with practicality, targeting families and individuals seeking a small, versatile vehicle. The 1.3 Multijet 70 hp Automatic variant occupied the entry-level position in the Musa lineup, prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of use over outright performance. It was primarily sold in European markets, where compact MPVs were highly popular, and represented Lancia’s attempt to capture a share of that demand with a premium-feeling, albeit modestly powered, vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lancia |
| Model | Musa |
| Generation | Musa (facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 Multijet (70 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 125 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 159 km/h (98.8 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17.2 kg/Hp, 58.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 149.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 70 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 1750 rpm (132.76 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 188 A9.000 |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69.6 mm (2.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l (3.17 US qt | 2.64 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1705 kg (3758.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1488 l (52.55 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Length | 4035 mm (158.86 in.) |
| Width | 1698 mm (66.85 in.) |
| Height | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2508 mm (98.74 in.) |
| Front track | 1444 mm (56.85 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1431 mm (56.34 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 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, automatic transmission Dualogic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Musa 1.3 Multijet Automatic is the 188A9.000 engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a product of Fiat’s Multijet technology, a second-generation common rail direct injection system. Multijet allows for multiple injection events per combustion cycle, improving efficiency, reducing noise, and lowering emissions. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. The 70 hp figure is achieved at 4000 rpm, while the 180 Nm (132.76 lb-ft) of torque is available from 1750 rpm, providing a relatively broad torque band for everyday driving. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Paired with this engine is a five-speed automatic transmission, marketed by Fiat as “Dualogic.” This transmission is essentially a conventional automatic with the ability to manually shift gears, offering a degree of driver control. However, it’s not a true manual transmission and lacks the responsiveness of a traditional gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 Multijet Automatic Musa prioritizes fuel economy over spirited performance. Acceleration is leisurely, taking approximately 15.4 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The Dualogic transmission, while offering some manual control, can feel hesitant and slow to respond, particularly during quick overtaking maneuvers. The relatively low horsepower and torque figures mean the engine needs to be worked hard, especially when fully loaded or climbing hills. Compared to the more powerful 1.9 JTD versions of the Musa, this variant feels significantly underpowered. However, the broad torque band does make it reasonably drivable in urban environments, and the automatic transmission simplifies the driving experience. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency rather than acceleration, contributing to the car’s respectable fuel economy figures.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 Multijet Automatic trim typically included basic features such as air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a radio/CD player. Safety equipment included ABS brakes and driver/passenger airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system. The Musa aimed for a slightly more upscale feel than some of its competitors, with attention paid to interior materials and design, though the base 1.3 Multijet Automatic trim remained relatively spartan.
Chassis & Braking
The Musa’s chassis features 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 discs, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The car’s relatively light weight (1205 kg / 2656.57 lbs) helps to mitigate the effects of the modest engine power. A stabilizer bar is fitted to the front suspension to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lancia Musa 1.3 Multijet Automatic was generally well-received for its fuel efficiency and practicality. Critics praised its comfortable ride and spacious interior for its size. However, the engine’s lack of power and the Dualogic transmission’s sluggishness were common criticisms. Compared to other compact MPVs like the Renault Scenic or Citroën C4 Picasso, the Musa offered a more stylish and refined interior, but lacked the performance and driving dynamics of some of its rivals. The 1.9 JTD versions of the Musa offered significantly better performance, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption and a higher price point. The 1.3 Multijet Automatic appealed to buyers prioritizing economy and ease of use over driving excitement.
Legacy
The 1.3 Multijet engine proved to be relatively reliable, although the Dualogic transmission can be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Today, the Musa 1.3 Multijet Automatic can be found on the used car market at affordable prices. Its fuel efficiency and practicality continue to make it an appealing option for budget-conscious buyers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the transmission’s potential weaknesses and ensure it has been regularly serviced. The Musa, while not a sales success for Lancia, remains a distinctive and interesting vehicle, representing a unique blend of Italian style and practicality in the compact MPV segment.
