The Alfa Romeo AR 06168 is a 1,750 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It features multi-point fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cam. In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) at 6,500 rpm and 180 Nm of torque at 4,250 rpm, providing smooth, high-revving performance typical of Alfa Romeo's naturally aspirated engines.
Fitted primarily to the MiTo and Giulietta, the AR 06168 was engineered for responsive city driving and agile handling. Its compact size and front-transverse layout support Alfa Romeo’s sporty front-wheel-drive architecture. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, allowing the engine to meet Euro 5 standards across European markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in vehicles with extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Alfa Romeo Service Information Bulletin SIB 08/2012, can lead to chain slack and potential valve train damage. From 2013, revised tensioner materials and updated oil specifications were introduced to improve durability.
All AR 06168 engines comply with Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Alfa Romeo AR 06168 is a 1,750 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact Alfa Romeo models (2010–2015). It combines multi-point fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver linear power delivery and high-rpm responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances driving engagement with regulated emissions performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,750 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Fiat 9.55535-M2 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for spirited driving but requires regular high-RPM operation to maintain valve train cleanliness. Fiat 9.55535-M2 (5W-30) oil is essential for timing chain lubrication and longevity. Extended oil intervals increase risk of tensioner wear and chain stretch, as documented in Alfa Romeo SIB 08/2012. Oil changes every 15,000 km or 24 months are mandatory. The engine responds well to induction cleaning and spark plug replacement every 60,000 km to maintain peak efficiency.
Oil Specs: Requires Fiat 9.55535-M2 (5W-30) specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 08/2012). Replaces ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 5 standards across all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE Regulation 83. Output achieved using 95 RON fuel (Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. AR-TIS-06168-F).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AR-TIS-06168-A to AR-TIS-06168-F
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
UN ECE Regulation 83: Uniform provisions concerning the approval of vehicles with regard to the emissions from petrol engines
The Alfa Romeo AR 06168 was used across Alfa Romeo's 380 platform with transverse mounting. This engine was primarily fitted to base and mid-tier trims of the MiTo and Giulietta, and from 2013 received updated ECU calibrations and tensioner revisions, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the lower front face of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Alfa Romeo TIS AR-TIS-06168-ID). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for AR 06168 series). Pre-2013 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2013 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from turbocharged variants: AR 06168 lacks turbocharger, intercooler, and high-pressure fuel pump. Service parts require model-year verification—timing tensioners from pre-2013 models are not interchangeable with revised units (Alfa Romeo SIB 08/2012).
The AR 06168's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, particularly in vehicles with extended oil change intervals. Internal Alfa Romeo service reports from 2014 indicated over 20% of pre-2013 units required tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links a notable share of engine-related failures to timing chain noise and valve train wear. Infrequent high-RPM operation and poor oil quality increase wear, making adherence to oil specifications and service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (2010-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO AR06168.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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