Leaving the past behind
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Fiat's new Doble Cargo is a world apart from the old version, in that it's actually pretty good. CM went along to the European launch.
Words: Jutian !Agnes
IF THE OLD FIAT DoblO didn't exactly inspire. due to its average ability and un-German-like build, the new version veritably bounds onto the market, such are the level of improvements and revisions.
First thing to grab your attention is the load area. As seems to be the norm nowadays, the Italian manufacturer has opted for a 'bigger is better' approach it packs a payload that's available up to a class-leading 1,000kg.
There's also the load volume, again a class-leading 4.2in'.
But if that's an obvious approach, there's plenty more to spark your interest. Fiat reckons the latest Doblb is 97% new, and within that claim you get a second-generation multijct engine line-up — the one area that was so impressive on the previous version.
To boltly go...
Not only that, all engines — Euro 4 1.3-litre 90hp, Euro-5 1.6-litre 105hp and Euro-5 2.0-litre 130hp — get stop/ start engine technology as standard as well as a DPF anti-particulate filter: a bold and impressive move from the van-maker. A 1.4-litre 16v 95hp Euro 5 petrol version will also go on sale in the UK, most likely aimed at CNG/ LPG converters.
ABS, EBD, ASR, and Hill Hold come as standard, while you can spec detachable Tom Tom sat-nay on top of the optional 'Blue and Me' Bluetooth system. This includes Fiat's impressive eco-Drive software, which analyses driving style. The information can be downloaded via a USB port in the vehicle and analysed on a dedicated Fiat eco-Drive website, a function for the smaller fleets perhaps.
The new DoblO comes in two wheelbases and two roof heights, as well as three specs named Active, Dynamic and Emotion
Inside job
t_,p front is a vast improvement over its predecessor, with far more cohesion in the design.
There's plenty of storage, easy-toread dials and switches, and the quality of build — together with the lack of bare metal — provides a comfortable and accommodating environment.
That said, it still doesn't get first prize. It lacks that certain dynamism that can be found in, say, the Transit Connect's interior, which is surprising given the Italian manufacturer's penchant for a touch of style But if it loses out in that battle, it's a different story on the road...
One element that impressed with the old version was the engine, and this quality is still very much intact, but with claimed improvements in fuel economy and a tweaked torque curve, for even better response.
There's a reassuring delivery of torque from low-down, which builds progressively as the engine smoothes its way through the rev range. The gearchange has also been tightened up, with less play in the gates and a shorter throw, complete with six-speeds on the 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre versions.
Chassis talk
However, the biggest revelation comes from the chassis. 'That new Bi-link suspension, as Fiat has christened it, really does take the ride and handling to new levels.
We took our test vehicle on a variety of roads outside Turin and it never failed to provide a top-notch ride and superb composure, making the Dahl() feel wieldy and secure.
In this brief encounter we'd go as far to say it's the best overall driving machine in the class, such are the improvements and standards it sets.
Fiat still suffers in parts with its reputation on build quality; we can safely say this one is right up there with the competition. There's no rattles or squeaks in fact, the feeling of solidity is now equalling its direct rivals, •