Fiat is adding a new entry-level engine to its Doblo small van range for 2019 with the introduction of an 80hp diesel.
The new engine has been announced alongside pricing for the ‘MY20’ model, which also brings a minor upgrade to standard equipment.
How does the new 80hp engine compare with the rest of the range?
The 80hp motor is based on Fiat’s 1.3-litre MultJet turbodiesel, which was already available in the Doblo in more powerful 95hp guise.
If neither of those sound strong enough for you, however, the Doblo is also available with a pair of 1.6-litre MultiJet turbodiesels, which provide 105hp or 120hp.
A 95hp non-turbo 1.4-litre petrol engine was offered previously as well, but this has now been discontinued from the range.
Are the new Doblos more fuel efficient?
We’re waiting on official mpg figures from Fiat UK (which is waiting on them from Fiat Italy at the moment), but suffice to say the 80hp diesel is likely to become the most efficient version.
All of the engines are now ready for the latest Euro 6 emissions regulations, which come into force for vans in September 2019.
What’s the Doblo’s new standard equipment?
The Doblo van comes in four trim levels: Standard, SX, Tecnico and Sportivo.
Changes for the MY20 Doblo are limited to the addition of an Eco pack on the Standard version, which means the entire range now gets stop-start technology, a smart alternator and an electronically controlled fuel pump – modifications that are specifically aimed at reducing fuel consumption.
Upgrade to the SX model, and you gain a sliding side door, height-adjustable driver’s seat and door mirrors finished in the same colour as the rest of the van body, rather than black plastic.
Tecnico is where things really get exciting, though, adding air-con, rear parking sensors, cruise control and sat-nav.
This leaves Sportivo at the top of range, targeting buyers who want a little more visual punch; available only in metallic black with red graphics, it also features 16-inch alloy wheels and heated door mirrors with an electric folding mechanism.
Why should I buy a Doblo?
As ever, the Doblo comes in a wide range of body variants as well, including the Cargo (short-wheelbase), Cargo Maxi (long-wheelbase) and Cargo XL (high roof), passenger versions of the same, plus Crew Van, Work Up pickup truck and Maxi Platform platform cab for conversions.
With up to 5.4 cubic metres of space inside, while the Doblo is getting on a bit now it still has one of the largest load areas in the small van class. And with a 1.0-tonne payload option it’s right up there in terms of weight capacity, too.
What does MY20 mean?
It stands for Model Year 20 – as in 2020. Despite this, the revised Doblo is on-sale now.
How much does the Fiat Doblo cost?
Prices for the MY20 Fiat Doblo start at £15,995 excluding VAT, which buys you an 80hp Cargo van in Standard specification.
