Fiat Scudo Van Review
The Fiat Scudo Van at a glance
It’s safe to say that you probably weren’t planning on your next small commercial vehicle purchase to come in the form of a Fiat. But with the release of the third generation Scudo model, thanks to the borrowed engineering and technology of the Stellantis Group, you might find that you could be persuaded by the Italian manufacturer. Much like its design counterparts, the 2022 Scudo panel van is practical, efficient and pleasant to drive. A definitive step in the right direction for Fiat.
But how did we get here? Back in 2016, Fiat pivoted its small van range away from two generations of Scudo branding, and regenerated it as the Talento – basing it on a Nissan Renault Alliance platform. This was deemed a bit of a commercial misfire, so six years later Fiat revisited the Scudo name and ditched the Renault roots to produce this Stellantis Group-esque panel van.
As to be expected, the new Scudo shares key similarities with other Stellantis-engineered small vans – the Citroen Dispatch, the Peugeot Expert and the Vauxhall Vivero. What this does mean is that, because its design and engineering have already been solidly proven in their capabilities, you know that the Fiat Scudo is a safe bet.
Engines and Spec
As mentioned above, all of the engineering that the Fiat Scudo offers is synonymous with other Stellantis Group small panel vans. So naturally, with an EMP2 platform beneath it, there is a choice of a diesel or electric-powered engine. We begin with a 1.5 litre diesel, available with either 100hp or 120hp, combined with 6-speed manual transmission. There is also a 2.0-litre Multijet diesel with 145hp and a choice of manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. This 2.0-litre model can also come with 180hp, but only with 8-speed auto.
If you’d like your business to prioritise sustainability by moving away from diesel vehicles, you’ll probably want to look into the two e-Scudo variants, both of which use a 136hp electric motor. Tradespeople who mainly work in metropolitan areas will be pleased with the base e-Scudo, which has a 50kWh battery that lasts for 144 miles. There is also a longer crew van variant with a 75kWh that boasts a 205 mile range.
Regardless of your engine preferences, drivers of any model will no doubt appreciate the car-like sensibilities of the driving position. Top-spec variants also receive a camera-driven kit including speed limit recognition, lane departure warning, side blind spot alert and attention alert systems. There’s also a handy ‘intelligent speed adaptation’ system that enables drivers to maintain a certain speed whilst at a cruise.
All models are decently equipped, with even the base variants containing cruise control, a speed limiter and a DAB audio system with Bluetooth. Top-spec variants have additional features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, high beam assist, power-folding mirrors and front parking sensors.
Interior
Internally, there is a clear yet cursory attempt on Fiat’s part to set the Scudo apart from its Stellantis Group cousins, but drivers aren’t likely to mind thanks to the quality of the car-like, extensively soundproofed cabin. The seating position is relatively low for a van, and plenty of seat and wheel adjustment is offered. Typical of this class is the three-seater bench and a Moduwork bulkhead flap that can be used to push longer items through from the cargo area. The Moduwork feature also allows the passenger seat to be folded forward so that the backrest can lay flat to create a handy work surface. The dashboard is virtually identical to that of other versions of this design, meaning that most functions are located on the central touchscreen, though the climate controls are found below. A head-up display can be specified.
Loading and Storage
Load volumes vary between 5.3 and 6.1m3 depending on your chosen wheelbase, and payload capacity goes up to around 1.2 tonnes. With the Moduwork system, items up to 4 metres long can be comfortably transported in the lengthy Maxi variant, and this also means that the total capacity can be increased to 6.6m3.
For the standard model, the load area is 2,512mm and 2,862mm for the Maxi. In both, there is a maximum height of 1,397mm from floor to ceiling.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive payload
- Pleasant to drive
- Extensively soundproofed cabin
- Moduwork system is a great bonus for long loads
Cons
- The cabin is a little cramped
- The EV model is expensive compared to the diesel
- Nothing that you can’t get in other models of its kind
The Verdict
Realistically, the Scudo doesn’t necessarily offer anything that you can’t get in the Peugeot, Citroen or Vauxhall versions of this same Stellantis design. However, if a Fiat supplier is more convenient for your business and is offering a better deal, you’ll at least know that with the Fiat Scudo you’re investing in a tried and tested, state-of-the-art commercial vehicle. When it comes to small to mid-sized panel vans, opting for an Italian brand just got that little bit more enticing.
To find out more about what the Fiat Scudo has to offer, contact Van Sales UK. Both the diesel and e-Scudo models are available for outright purchase as well as hire purchase, contract hire and finance lease. All of our new Fiats come complete with manufacturers warranty and manufacturers roadside assistance, and free mainland UK delivery is included with every purchase. To get started, give Van Sales UK a call on 0117 205 2628.
