Fiat Doblo Cargo review (2001-2010)
PROS
- Excellent capacity
- Great turbodiesels
- Price
CONS
- Ugly
- Feeble 1.2 petrol.
Summary
Unlike some of Fiat's other vans (collaborative projects with Peugeot and Citroen) the Doblo Cargo is all Fiat's own work.
Competing against the Citroen Berlingo and Renault Kangoo, the Doblo has several features that make it worth taking seriously. Whether your choosing the performance-biased 1.9-litre turbodiesel or the economy-conscious 1.3 Multijet, both are excellent.
Meanwhile the van is also available in a standard or high-roof body should you need a little extra space.
Revisions for 2005 witnessed neater front-end styling and improved petrol engines.
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The 1.9 JTD diesel versions of the Doblò Cargo are easily the most satisfying to drive, although the 1.3 Multijet diesel launched in 2004 is reasonably lively given its diminutive engine capacity.
The earliest 1.2-litre petrol models feel like hard work, although the 1.4-litre engine introduced later is a big improvement. The 1.9-litre models offer excellent pulling power, and still return comfortably more than 40mpg, so are the best bets for motorway work.
The Doblò Cargo is a decent drive, with limited body roll in bends.
The Doblò Cargo has a robust feel about its interior, and there are some clever design touches. The gearstick is mounted at the base of the dashboard, just below the ventilation controls, and some models are available with contrasting colour combinations that brighten the interior.
The driving position is excellent with height adjustment for both the seat and the steering wheel, and air conditioning is available as an option. There is an overhead shelf in the cabin, and the passenger side of the dashboard has a shelf and a lidded glove compartment.
From summer 2001 Fiat offered its Connect directory, hands-free phone and navigation system as an option on Doblò Cargo. Buyers looking at used versions of the Doblò Cargo with this useful feature fitted should check the status of the subscription to the directory service. It's less useful if the subscription hasn't been renewed.
The Doblò Cargo is well priced compared to rivals, and you'll also probably find you can buy a newer used Doblò than you can a Renault Kangoo or Citroen Berlingo.
Diesel versions are exceptionally economical, particularly the 1.3 Multijet. Servicing costs should also be average.
Well maintained examples shouldn't give any cause for concern in terms of the engine and gearbox, although some owners may experience niggling problems that are a struggle to get dealers to put right.
A driver's airbag has been standard on the Doblò Cargo since its launch with an optional passenger airbag, although anti-lock brakes are still optional on some models.
Side airbags have become available as options with the 2005 revisions to the range. Customer can also choose rear parking sensors on the latest versions.
