Apart from the ubiquity, what makes the 1.3-litre Multijet diesel engine such a likeable one? To start with, it’s fairly economical, runs smoothly, and has enough grunt for everyday driving. The turbo lag may not be completely absent, but with a good old surge coming in at 2,000 rpm, the engine keeps the practical enthusiast happy, too. But come 2022, there will be no new Fiat diesel engines, according to a report by Financial Times. Needless to mention, our favourite the 1.3 Multijet will sadly be gone, too.
The report mentions that Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is likely to present its four-year plan this year, which will further elaborate the group’s outlook regarding diesel engines and possible electrification. The recent drop in sales of diesel-engined vehicles (by up to eight per cent) in Europe, the increased expenses to comply with the latest emission standards, and possibility of going electric make diesel engines’ survival quite a weak case.
Autocar India had earlier reported that due to both Tata and Maruti switching to their respective diesel engines, it would become difficult for the 1.3-litre Multijet to survive in the Indian market beyond 2020. Which is when the new BS-VI regulations come into effect.
So as the saying goes, make hay while the sun shines.
Source: Financial Times; ACI
