Uno changes for Fiorino
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• Fiat has launched the revised Fiorillo high-cube van, based on the Unovan (see this week's roadtest). The new Florin() incorporates the frontal changes to the Uno range, launched a year ago, which include new front wings, bonnet and grille.
The petrol option has been dropped: the only engine now available is the 1.7-litre diesel which was revised last year to improve refinement and reduce exhaust emissions.
With a new induction system and injector pump, the engine produces 43kW (58hp) at 4,600rpm — down from 44kW (60hp) at 4,500rpm. Torque is reduced from 103Nm (761bft) at 3,000rpm to 100Nm (741bft) at 2,90Orpm. Like the Uno, the Fiorino gets uprated front suspension and more sound insulation. But unlike the Unovan, it gets proper van door mirrors which should improve rearward visibility.
Body volume is unaltered at 2.7m3 — one of the best in its class — and payload stays at 465kg with a 75kg driver.
When we tested the previous model (CM 9-15 March 1989), we criticised it for its noisy engine and exhaust smoke under load. If our experience with the Uno is anything to go by these problems have been dealt with by the engine modifications.
At £6,130 (ex-VAT) the new Morino is .£115 more expensive than the previous diesel, but competitively priced against its rivals. The Renault Extra 575 diesel costs £6,475 (ex-VAT), the Citroen C15D 600 £6,247 (ex-VAT), Vauxhall's Astramax 365 diesel £7,595 (ex-VAT) and Ford's Courier Popular diesel £7,630 (ex-VAT).