Following our look at the biggest discounts on medium panel vans 2015, we highlight a number of great deals within the sector. The Fiat Scudo LWB Tecnico was one such deal, being offered by Pentagon for £12,495 plus Vat, saving over £7,000 off the list price.
This deal relates to the Technico trim level, which includes cruise control, reverse parking sensors, Bluetooth connectivity and air conditioning.
While the Fiat Scudo may be aging, it’s still very productive with impressive fuel economy and a decent payload. Refinement, however, falls well short of its more modern competitors and the cab is the most utilitarian on the market.
Impressive load capabilities
Having the high 2.9t gross vehicle weight, this particular Scudo is able to offer up to 1,200kg of payload. The load area measures 2,584mm long, by 1,600mm wide by 1,499mm high on the long wheelbase (with low roof), giving a total load volume of six cubic metres.
In addition to the rear barn doors, twin side loading doors also provide access to the load area. A full, solid bulkhead provides the driver and passengers with protection, and there is a light and six lashing points.
On the road
Even though Fiat develops its own reputable diesel engines, the 1.6-litre unit in the Fiat Scudo is developed by Peugeot (PSA). It develops it to 89bhp of power and 180Nm of torque, and achieves around 40.9mpg on the combined cycle.
The entry-level 1.6 is noisy and long motorway runs become tiresome due to the over-revving engine (5-speed manual) and road noise. The engine has plenty of low-down power and well-spaced gears, making it easy to pull away at low speed and gear changes are effortless and precise.
Summary
While it may not be the most comfortable to drive, it has a decent sized load area and is relatively cheap to run. The deal includes Fiat Professional’s competitive three year or 120,000 mile warranty and service intervals are set at a fairly lengthy 18,000 miles or every two years. Available from £12,495 plus VAT, the deal from Pentagon represents a saving of over £7,000.