Review of the Fiat Ducato

The Fiat Ducato is a large van that's been an ever-favourite in its sector since its inception. Now in its sixth generation, the Ducato comes with a great range of technology and high payload ratings.  

Rivals to the Ducato include the Ford Transit, Peugeot Boxer, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Citroen Relay, and Volkswagen Crafter.  

Our Fiat Ducato review covers:

• Modern exterior design with large front grille 
• Spacious and comfortable interior 
• Up to 17m3 of load volume 
• 2.2-litre diesel engine with three power outputs 
• One trim level

Pros:

• Good payload and load volume 
• Comfortable interior 
• Loads of variants available 

Cons:

• Most modern tech is optional 
• Suspension bumpy with no cargo on board 
• Top specs are expensive 

The Fiat Ducato is a large van… so it looks as you'd expect. Its boxy design is complemented by a large front grille and creases throughout the body. 

There's room for three people in the cabin of the Ducato. The driver and two passengers get loads of head and legroom, and the only qualm is that there might be a bit of shoulder-rubbing. There are also loads of storage, including a tray below the dash, above-dash storage, a dedicated area for mobile phones, and wireless charging. 

There's a version of the Ducato to suit every preference. Available in three wheelbases and three roof heights, load volumes range from 8 to 17m3, while payloads range from 905 to 2,220kg. This is impressive and is on par with the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter but falls slightly short of the Volkswagen Crafter. 

The cabin of the Ducato is one of the best around; the seats are comfortable, and the dashboard feels well-built. Add all of the optional extras, like the comfort pack and techno nav pack, and it's almost like you're sitting in a luxury car. 

The Ducato comes standard with a five-inch DAB radio that's a blast from the past. We'd recommend adding either the techno pack, which upgrades it to a seven-inch screen, or the techno nav pack, which adds a ten-inch screen with connectivity services. 

Just one trim level is available for the Ducato. It comes with 15-inch steel wheels, panelled rear doors, electric heated mirrors, a fixed full-width steel bulkhead, manual air conditioning, a five-inch DAB radio, parking sensors and reverse warning speaker, advanced emergency braking, and a perimeter alarm. 

There's a range of extras you can add, including a worksite maxi pack, a comfort pack, a techno pack, and a techno nav pack. 

The Ducato features Fiat's Multijet 3 diesel engine. A 2.2-litre four-cylinder unit, it comes with either 120,140 or 180hp. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, but a nine-speed automatic is optional on all models apart from the 180. 

Unlike its predecessor, the Multijet 2, the current engine is designed to deliver better fuel economy savings, and all versions come with the Eco pack as standard. With this, you'll be looking at a fuel economy in the mid-30s. 

The diesel engine is a strong performer on the road that copes well with heavy payloads. Around town, the Ducato's steering is direct and nicely weighted, meaning that it's relatively straightforward to navigate city streets. The suspension can be a bit bumpy with nothing in the rear, but it's fine with a full load. 

Increase up to motorway speeds, and the Ducato maintains its comfortable drive, being well-insulated from engine and road noise. We'd recommend going for the nine-speed automatic gearbox, which is pleasant to use and makes for a relaxing journey. It's much better than the Renault Master and is on the same level as the Ford Transit, which is a seriously good job. 

Prices for the new Fiat Ducato start from £37,326.00 OTR* or to lease from £549.10 per month.

Looking to get behind the wheel of the Fiat Ducato? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts is one of the UK's largest van leasing brokers and offers a range of leasing deals to suit your every need.

Leasing may be cheaper than an outright purchase, thanks to a low initial deposit and fixed monthly rentals.

*' On the road' price correct at time of publication and includes one year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Prices are subject to change; always check with your nearest retailer.