Fiat Doblo Van Review

The Fiat Doblo Van at a glance

Small panel vans are a cornerstone of many industries, and we’re always on the lookout for brand-new models and futuristic features. That said, new doesn’t always mean best, and some vans really do stand the test of time.

The Fiat Doblo is one such van, and we’re mightily impressed by its performance and popularity, year after year.

Though it may not enjoy the veteran status of other, long-running models such as the transit, the Fiat Doblo has seen its fair share of action; its sturdiness, storage and reliability are what enable it to compete with an evolving market and modernised vehicles.

Since this model first hit the roads back in 2010, the Doblo Van has earned a reputation for reliability. Fiat’s extensive knowledge of commercial vehicles and their requirements really shines through, with the 2022 model feeling sturdy, safe, and built to withstand its fair share of bumps, bruises and long journeys.

Though the Doblo doesn’t feature the same high-tech cab design as certain competitors, the impressive choice of models and dependability are sure to keep Fiat in the conversation. After all, if a sturdy vehicle, reliable engine and practical design mean more to you than swanky modern tech and state-of-the-art features, the Fiat Doblo could be ideal.

Read on to hear our thoughts on engine specifications, payload, driving performance and cab design.

Engines and Spec

Fiat offers buyers a choice of engine sizes, with the option of a 1.3 or 1.6-litre multijet. Each of these is available in one of two power outputs: 80 or 95bhp for the smaller variant and 105 or 120bhp for the larger model. The smaller 1.3-litre diesel engine is paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox, whilst the 1.6-litre engine features a 6-speed alternative.

For larger loads and urban navigation, the choice of larger engine sizes is ideal, providing more than enough torque to get up tricky hills, no matter the load size. That said, this is by no means a work-only van, as its agile size and choice of an 80bhp model make it just as suitable for personal use.

We’re definitely fans of the choice available to prospective buyers, allowing you to find a model of Doblo that suits your needs best. That said, we’d recommend choosing a larger engine size if you plan on making longer, high-speed journeys.

Regarding fuel efficiency, the Doblo is pretty impressive, boasting a minimum of 50mpg on all of its models. That’s better than some of the newest vans on the market today!

This, combined with inexpensive parts and lengthy servicing intervals makes the Doblo admirably cheap to run.

Storage & Payload

As well as its standard, short-wheelbase ‘cargo’ model, the Doblo van is also available in a ‘Cargo Maxi’ variant, boasting a longer wheelbase, extended cargo space and the option for a high roof to be added.

We were really impressed by the Doblo’s payload capabilities, with every model boasting a capacity of 1,005kg, regardless of their body size. For a small panel van, the Doblo really shines. Whether you’re lugging tools from site to site, or stacking the cargo area full of goods for delivery, it shouldn’t be a problem for this vehicle.

Interior

Like it or not, the Doblo does exactly what it says on the tin. The van features a well-built, neatly finished interior and spacious cab which avoids the cramped feeling that commonly accompanies smaller vans via its lower seat positioning and high roof. The Doblo’s interior also features plenty of storage space, including a large, lockable glovebox and spacious door bins.

When it comes to the van’s entertainment system (or lack of), this is where tech lovers might be turned away. Unlike certain competitors, such as the Ford Transit Connect, the Doblo lacks the option for a full infotainment system. However, in the upgraded Tecnico models available here at Van Sales, the Doblo is kitted with USB and Bluetooth connectivity as well as cruise control and parking sensors.

With all of the above in mind, if a touchscreen entertainment system is something you can do without, there is no reason to discount this van as a brilliant option.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High payload capabilities

• Fuel-efficient

• Great cab storage features

• Reliable

Cons

• Lacking modern entertainment system

• Slightly out-dated cab

The Verdict

There’s no doubt about it, the Fiat Doblo is an impressive van that stands strong against the competition, even if it doesn’t feature the high-tech specifications of some newer alternatives. The van’s fuel efficiency, sizable payload and reputation for reliability make it a strong contender as one of the best value vehicles on the market today.

With a range of practical benefits, a variety of engine sizes and the choice between small and long wheelbases, we’d definitely recommend the Fiat Doblo as a perfect choice for tradespeople of all kinds.

Discover all the Fiat Doblo Van has to offer at Van Sales UK. Get in touch with us to discuss your requirements and find out more about our range of finance and purchase options, designed to suit you.

Call us now on 0117 428 7721 or send an email to sales@vansalesuk.co.uk.