Dabbling with the New Fiat Doblo

Available in the UK in January 2015, the new FIAT Doblò has been unveiled, the fourth generation of the Doblò. Originally launched in 2000, it has sold 300,000 since launch and now sports a restyled front end for 2015 with a sculpted bonnet; new front wings; distinctive new headlamps and a bold new grille.

That sleek new front bumper, lower air intakes and fog light shrouds help the Fiat Doblo look more like a car while making sure that it still looks as solid and robust as it should – while at the rear there are new light clusters and a new body-coloured moulding across the tailgate.

Also available in a new dark grey exterior colour, the 2015 FIAT Doblò manages to maintain the promise that it has always had as a van that offers one of the broadest and most comprehensive ranges in its segment with three engine/transmission choices, three trim levels, two roof heights and a choice of five- or seven-seat versions. It has twin sliding rear doors as standard, and also offers a choice of tailgates and the option of a fold-flat front passenger seat ready for customers of Fiat to take the decision as to which Doblò best suits their lifestyle.

Inside the van, the new FIAT Doblò is both versatile and practical (as previously) with the 5-seat versions offering up a vast 790 litre boot (up to the parcel shelf) which, when all passenger seats are folded down, can be increased to a class-leading 3,200 litres. Even the parcel shelf founds itself as part of the solution as it is able to carry loads of up to 70kg!

When it comes to the drive, the 2015 FIAT Doblò has had its engine upgraded to allow for lighter and more precise gear changes, and also includes a more responsive throttle pedal, new instrumentation and even better noise insulation; yet it continues to offer the best ride and handling in its class, all down to the segment-exclusive, bi-link, independent rear suspension that comes complete with dual-rate shock absorbers, high-performance springs and a rear anti-roll bar all tuned and ready to give any driver the ideal combination of handling and damping performance on all roads.

THE DOBLO RANGE

Here in the UK, the Doblo range has been completely revised for 2015, with a new entry-level Pop trim joining, fully equipped with Start&Stop, remote central locking, electric front windows and a 60/40 split rear seat as standard.

The “MyLife” trim level is replaced by the new “Easy” version which adds in body-coloured bumpers front and rear, front fog lights, body-coloured electric door mirrors, steering wheel audio remote controls and a height adjustable driver’s seat when looked at in comparison to the Pop specification. There are three powertrains available; a 95hp 1.4-litre petrol engine, the 1.6-litre MultiJet 2 105hp, and a 1.6-litre MultiJet 2 90hp Dualogic (equipped with FIAT’s automated-manual transmission.)

At the top of the range we find the Eleganza version which takes the Easy version and adds in air conditioning; 16-inch alloy wheels; rear parking sensors; an audio system upgrade including Bluetooth and USB/Aux-in connectivity; rear electric windows; power folding door mirrors; a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob; dark tinted windows and cruise control all as standard. Two powertrains are available here in the shape of the 1.6-litre MultiJet 2 105hp and the 1.6-litre MultiJet 2 90hp Dualogic version (again equipped with FIAT’s automated-manual transmission.)

When it comes to safety, it is comforting to know that, as standard, every new FIAT Doblò is equipped with ESC (Electronic Stability Control); ASR (Anti Slip Regulation), HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assist), Hill Holder; ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution); front airbags (side bags are optional) and TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System).

Available in January 2015 in the UK, click here to see what Nationwide Vehicle Contracts have to offer when it comes to leasing a Fiat Doblo.