The Tofas Palio Weekend 1.2 i S (60 hp) was a station wagon variant produced by Turkish automaker Tofas between 2001 and 2003. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the Palio Weekend range, it aimed to provide affordable family transportation with a focus on practicality and fuel economy. The Palio Weekend itself was based on the Fiat Palio platform (Project 178), a supermini that gained popularity in Europe and emerging markets. The “i S” designation denoted a specific trim level, typically featuring a modest level of equipment. This variant played a significant role in the Turkish market, where station wagons were – and continue to be – a popular body style due to their versatility.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tofas |
| Model | Palio |
| Generation | Palio Weekend |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 i S (60 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 153 km/h (95.07 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17.1 kg/Hp, 58.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10 kg/Nm, 99.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 60 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 48.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 102 Nm @ 2500 rpm (75.23 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1242 cm3 (75.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 70.8 mm (2.79 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.9 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.74 l (3.95 US qt | 3.29 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1025 kg (2259.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1540 l (54.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l (12.68 US gal | 10.56 UK gal) |
| Length | 4130 mm (162.6 in.) |
| Width | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Height | 1512 mm (59.53 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2423 mm (95.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1388 mm (54.65 in.) |
| Rear track | 1385 mm (54.53 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 | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/70 R13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Tofas Palio Weekend 1.2 i S was powered by a 1.2-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, often identified by its internal code 182B2.000, was a relatively simple and robust design. It featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-point fuel injection system, which, while not particularly advanced, provided adequate fuel atomization for the engine’s modest power output. The engine’s 9.8:1 compression ratio was a compromise between efficiency and performance. The 5-speed manual transmission was a standard offering, chosen for its affordability and simplicity. The transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards fuel efficiency rather than spirited acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 60 horsepower output of the 1.2-liter engine resulted in modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 15.7 seconds, and the top speed was around 95 mph. In real-world driving, the engine felt strained when fully loaded or attempting to climb hills. The 5-speed manual transmission helped to keep the engine within its optimal power band, but frequent downshifts were often necessary. Compared to other Palio Weekend variants, such as those equipped with the 1.6-liter engine, the 1.2 i S felt significantly underpowered. However, its lighter weight and focus on economy made it more nimble in city driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “i S” trim level represented a basic specification. Standard equipment typically included power steering, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras, such as air conditioning and power windows, were available but often added a significant cost to the vehicle. The focus of this trim level was on providing essential transportation at an affordable price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Palio Weekend utilized a relatively simple chassis design. Front suspension consisted of coil springs and independent suspension, while the rear employed a twist beam setup with coil springs. Braking was handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as a standard safety feature. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, providing a reasonably smooth ride on typical road surfaces. The relatively narrow 175/70 R13 tires contributed to the car’s fuel efficiency but offered limited grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Tofas Palio Weekend 1.2 i S was generally well-received in the Turkish market as an affordable and practical family car. Critics noted its fuel efficiency and spacious interior, but also pointed out its lack of power and basic equipment levels. Compared to the higher-trim Palio Weekend variants, the 1.2 i S offered a more economical entry point but sacrificed performance and features. Its fuel economy was competitive with other small station wagons available at the time, and its reliability was generally considered to be good.
Legacy
The Tofas Palio Weekend 1.2 i S, while not a performance icon, remains a relatively common sight on Turkish roads today. The 1.2-liter engine and 5-speed manual transmission proved to be durable and reliable, and parts availability remains reasonably good. In the used car market, these models are valued for their affordability and practicality. While not sought after by enthusiasts, they represent a practical and economical choice for those seeking a basic, reliable station wagon.
