The Alfa Romeo AR 01655 is a 1,750 cc, inline — four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It forms the core of Alfa Romeo's downsized gasoline lineup, featuring direct fuel injection, variable valve timing (Dual VVT), and a twin — scroll turbocharger. In standard tune it delivers 147 kW (200 PS), with torque peaking at 300 Nm from 1,500 rpm, enabling responsive performance ideal for sporty driving dynamics.
Fitted to key models including the 940 Giulie…
Production years 2015–2017 meet Euro 6b standards; 2018–2020 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Alfa Romeo AR 01655 is a 1,750 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size performance models (2015–2020). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances sporty driving character with regulated efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,750 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin-scroll) | |
Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
Torque | 300 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6b (2015–2017); Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2020) | |
Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | IHI twin-scroll turbo with vacuum-actuated wastegate | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, front-mounted) | |
Oil type | SAE 5W-40, API SN/CF, ACEA C3 | |
Dry weight | 132 kg |
The Alfa Romeo AR 01655 was used across Alfa Romeo's 940/952/956 platforms with transverse mounting in the Giulietta and longitudinal in the Giulia/Stelvio, creating drivetrain-specific adaptations. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-adapted intake manifolds in the 940 and revised cooling layouts in the 952-and from 2018 the facelifted Giulia QV adopted a higher-lift cam profile for improved airflow. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The AR 01655's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator failure, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Alfa Romeo field reports from 2019 indicated a significant number of pre-2018 units required actuator replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures linked to prolonged rich-running conditions. Frequent cold starts and low-speed operation increase carbon buildup, making oil quality and warm-up cycles critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (2016-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The AR 01655 offers strong performance and responsiveness, but early models (2015–2017) had reliability concerns, particularly turbo wastegate and injector issues. Later revisions (post-2018) improved actuator durability and ECU calibration. Well-maintained examples with regular oil changes and quality fuel can achieve high mileage. Using TOP TIER petrol and adhering to service intervals greatly enhances longevity.
The most documented issues are turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, direct injector coking, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. Secondary concerns include timing chain rattle on early units and occasional cam phaser faults. These are addressed in Alfa Romeo service bulletins, with updated parts available for critical components.
This 1.75L turbo petrol engine was used in the Giulietta (940), Giulia (952), and Stelvio (956) models from 2015 to 2020. It powered the 200 HP variants across these lines, with longitudinal mounting in the Giulia and Stelvio, and transverse in the Giulietta. No cross-manufacturer usage is documented.
Yes. The AR 01655 responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes typically achieve 230–250 HP safely, as the stock turbo and internals handle moderate overboost. Supporting mods like intercooler and exhaust improve reliability at higher outputs. Tuning should preserve OEM safety parameters and use high-octane fuel to prevent knock.
In mixed driving, expect 8.0–9.5 L/100km (29–35 mpg UK). Highway efficiency reaches ~6.8 L/100km (~41 mpg UK), while city driving may exceed 11 L/100km (~25 mpg UK). Real-world figures depend heavily on driving style. The engine's turbo efficiency helps, but aggressive use reduces economy significantly.
Yes. The AR 01655 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact will occur, resulting in severe internal damage. Chain maintenance and oil condition are critical. Any cold-start rattle should be diagnosed immediately to prevent catastrophic failure.
Alfa Romeo specifies SAE 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting ACEA C3 standards. Use of API SN/CF compatible oil is permitted. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 1 year. Proper oil ensures turbo bearing protection, timing chain lubrication, and particulate filter compatibility.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ALFA-ROMEO Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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