The Alfa Romeo AR 33201 is a 1,742 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), and twin variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard tune it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 180 Nm of torque, designed for responsive urban driving and efficient highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Giulietta and MiTo, the AR 33201 was engineered to balance fuel economy with Alfa Romeo’s signature driving dynamics. Its character emphasizes throttle responsiveness and smooth delivery, supported by a compact design and transverse mounting. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 6 standards across its production run.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly under extended service intervals or mixed driving conditions. This issue, referenced in Alfa Romeo Service Information Bulletin 15 04 23, can lead to timing misalignment and potential valve-to-piston contact. Later production revisions included an updated tensioner design with improved oil retention and durability.
Production years 2015–2020 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Alfa Romeo AR 33201 is a 1,742 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact performance models (2015–2020). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with twin variable valve timing (VVT) to deliver agile throttle response and balanced efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it supports Alfa Romeo's focus on driver engagement in small-platform vehicles.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,742 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 @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; tensioner wear documented) | |
| Oil type | Alfa Romeo 5W-40 SP2 (ACEA A3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The naturally aspirated design with twin VVT provides linear throttle response ideal for urban agility but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Alfa Romeo 5W-40 SP2 (ACEA A3/B4) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and anti-wear additives protecting the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling and frequent short trips increase thermal stress on the tensioner. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to low-octane fuel, which can trigger knock sensor intervention and reduced performance. Post-2017 models feature revised tensioner geometry; pre-2016 units should have the updated assembly per Alfa Romeo SIB 15 04 23. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent lambda sensor function and avoidance of oil/fuel contamination.
Oil Specs: Requires Alfa Romeo 5W-40 SP2 specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 15 04 23). Meets ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). No Euro 5 variant exists.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output assumes 98 RON fuel quality (Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A36025).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A36210, SIB 15 04 23
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Alfa Romeo AR 33201 was used across Alfa Romeo's 952/332 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the MiTo and revised exhaust routing in the Giulietta-and from 2017 the facelifted Giulietta adopted updated engine management software, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Alfa Romeo TIS A36200). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('B' for 1.8 JTS series). Pre-2016 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2016 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 2.0 TBi: AR 33201 has a single exhaust manifold and no balance shaft; 2.0 TBi uses a dual-exhaust manifold and balance shaft assembly. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 03/2016 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Alfa Romeo SIB 16 05 24).
The AR 33201's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban-highway use. Internal Alfa Romeo quality reports from 2016 noted a significant share of pre-2016 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage vehicles. Extended oil intervals and low-octane fuel increase thermal and mechanical stress, making oil quality and fuel specification adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (2015-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO AR33201.
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