Reviews - Fiat

Overall Rating

The Fiat Doblo Cargo is not only an economical spacious small van it's one of the most stylish in the market after upgrades from earlier models improved its looks. Fiat's small van replacement for the Fiorino comes in two well designed engine sizes in petrol or diesel aimed at maximizing mpg.

• Practical
• Good engine choice
• Stylish

• Early models not quite so easy on the eye
• Petrol version

Fiats replacement for the Fiorino in the small van market the Doblo Cargo is available in two engine sizes 1.3 and 1.9 using the latest Multijet engine, the entry-level 16-valve 1.3-litre JTD unit is a second-generation common-rail diesel. With 75bhp making the Doblo feel quicker than its performance figures suggest on paper. You should be able to average over 50mpg making this an economical small van option suitable for town driving as well as long distance. The 8-valve 1.9 JTD 105bhp engine is of the first generation configuration with Fiats Uni-jet injection system. It's not as advanced as the 1.3-litre but it is faster and nearly as economical. Fiat is also bringing out an 85bhp version of the 1.3 and a 120bhp 1.9 JTD. The final engine option is the 1.4-litre 77bhp unit. Whether you opt for the petrol or diesel the Doblo Cargo handles well with plenty of grip. Style-wise the Doblo has taken the bold step away from usual commercials and comes in 12 different paintworks with some unusual colourful trims that come in cloth or vinyl. There is a shelf above the windscreen for extra storage and decent sized-door pockets for holding paperwork. Gearlevers are mounted on the dashboard to give more leg space in the front. The exterior is dominated by large bumpers and large headlamps, rubber strips run along the side as prevention to bodywork damage. The driving position is upright and visibility is good, combining with the tight 10.5m turning circle to make the Doblo Cargo a small van with a lot of manoeuvrability. Upgrades to the current Doblo Cargo have shown the size increase with the standard form offering a 3.2m3 load volume or 8m3 if you opt for a high roof derivative. Loading is accessed through the asymmetrically split side-hinged rear doors and if you upgrade to the SX trim level, a pair of 685mm sliding side-doors are also added.

A stylish small van with looks that match its functionality. Economical with plenty of room inside and the added benefit of great maneuverability.