Fiat’s long-running small panel van, the Doblo, has received a facelift and technical upgrades during its mid-life refresh. The current version was only launched in 2010 but the bosses at Fiat used the IAA Show in Germany to showcase the new and smarter looking version.
Stylish new look
While looks and design never play a huge role in the qualities of a commercial vehicle, the quirky and flamboyant front-end design of the current generation Fiat Doblo is a polarising subject; some arguing its cute and unique, while others detest that it’s downright ugly.
Whatever your opinion, there’s no disputing that the new design appears more solid and smart, and possesses the presentable quality that many van buyers look for. The headlights have been replaced by a more conventional, and stylish design and the grille now runs the full width of the bumper.
Engine tuning
But it’s not just the looks that have been modified. The ECU’s have been adapted to make the lower displacement engines (1.3 and 1.6mJet) more responsive, Fiat claims by up to 40 percent, by increasing the availability of torque at lower engine revolutions.
A new “EcoJet” version is also available, which offers a reduction in fuel consumption by utilising Start/Stop, low rolling-resistance tyres, low-viscosity oil, an ‘intelligent’ alternator, a variable-displacement oil pump and a new aerodynamic pack, which help achieve fuel economy figures of up to 64mpg.
Safety
In line with upcoming European legislation, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is now standard on the Fiat Doblo Cargo, along with ABS brakes with EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), ASR (Anti Slip Regulation), HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assist) and Hill-Holder systems. Following the likes of the Fiorino and Ducato, Traction+, which allows for extra traction on low-grip surfaces, is also now available.
Availability
The face-lifted Fiat Doblo will be arriving in UK dealerships by next spring. Prices are yet to be announced, but we expect a modest increase in line with the increased specification.
