The Alfa Romeo AR 16201 is a 1,995 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2021 and 2023. It belongs to the FireFly GSE (Global Small Engine) family developed under Stellantis, featuring MultiAir IV variable valve timing, direct fuel injection, and a twin-scroll turbocharger. In standard tune it delivers 169 kW (230 PS), with peak torque of 330 Nm available from 1,900 rpm.
Fitted to models such as the 952 Giulia and 953 Stelvio, the AR 16201 was engineered for high-performance driving dynamics and modern emissions compliance. Emissions control is achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, gasoline particulate filter (GPF), and dual lambda sensors, meeting Euro 6d-Full standards across all production years in European markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump actuator, highlighted in Alfa Romeo Technical Service Bulletin 22 04 15. This issue is attributed to mechanical fatigue in the camshaft-driven tappet under sustained high-load operation. From 2022, revised metallurgy and updated fuel rail pressure calibration were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 2021–2023 meet Euro 6d-Full standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9372).
The Alfa Romeo AR 16201 is a 1,995 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine from the FireFly GSE family (2021–2023). It combines MultiAir IV valve control with gasoline direct injection to deliver sharp throttle response and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6d-Full emissions standards, it balances sporty performance with modern efficiency requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin-scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.3 mm × 81.3 mm | |
| Power output | 169 kW (230 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 330 Nm @ 1,900–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch MED 17.8.8) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-Full | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (IHI RHF6 VVT) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (integrated into cylinder head) | |
| Oil type | SAE 0W-20, ACEA C5 | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The MultiAir IV system enables precise valve control for improved low-end response and emissions but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using SAE 0W-20 ACEA C5 oil to prevent actuator wear. The twin-scroll turbo reduces lag but requires proper cooldown after spirited driving to prevent bearing coking. Direct injection increases susceptibility to intake valve coking; periodic cleaning is recommended. Post-2022 models benefit from improved high-pressure fuel pump tappet durability per Alfa Romeo SIB 22 04 15.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA C5 specification with low SAPS formulation (Alfa Romeo SIB 22 04 15). Compatible with API SN/SP standards.
Emissions: Euro 6d-Full certification applies to all production years (2021–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9372).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities due to dual lambda control and knock sensing (Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. D37010).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D35702, D36184, SIB 22 04 15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9372)
ISO 8854: Road vehicles — Light and heavy duty engines — Determination of gaseous emissions
The Alfa Romeo AR 16201 was used across Alfa Romeo's 952/953 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—sport-tuned ECU maps in the Giulia and revised torque delivery in the Stelvio—and from 2022 the facelifted Giulia models adopted updated MultiAir IV calibration with improved oil flow monitoring, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Alfa Romeo TIS D35914). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('L' for AR 16201 series). Pre-2022 models have red Alfa Romeo script on the cam cover; post-2022 units use black script. Critical differentiation from AR 16202: AR 16201 produces 230 PS with standard turbo boost, while AR 16202 delivers 280 PS with revised wastegate control and intercooler. Service parts require production date verification—high-pressure fuel pump assemblies for pre-2022 models are incompatible with later revisions due to tappet redesign (Alfa Romeo SIB 22 04 15).
The AR 16201's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump actuator wear under sustained load, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway driving. Internal Alfa Romeo quality reports from 2022 indicated a notable share of pre-2022 units required pump replacement before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter degradation in high-mileage examples. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel significantly increase wear, making fluid quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (2021–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2022–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO AR16201.
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