April’s Used Van Hero 2020

Each month, Glass’s Commercial Vehicle editors hold a meeting to name the current Used Van Hero in the UK market – the model they believe offers the highest level of versatility, durability and outstanding value for money.

Andy Picton, Glass’s Chief Commercial Vehicle Editor recommends the front wheel drive Fiat Ducato as the “ideal small large van, offering big payloads and a smooth drive.”

Andy added, “Following its launch in 1981, Fiat has proved to be a growing force in the large panel sector, offering a huge choice of vans and variants, with payload solutions for all businesses”.

WHEN WAS IT ON SALE

The Ducato has been on sale for nearly 40 years as part of the Sevel joint venture between Fiat and PSA Groupe.

The first generation was available between 1981 and 1993 and sold as the Ducato, the Citroen C25, the Peugeot J5, the Talbot Express and the Alfa Romeo AR6 in different world markets.

The second generation Ducato was launched in 1993 and remained in production for 13 years. It was also marketed as the Citroen Relay or Jumper and the Peugeot Boxer.

The third generation was launched in 2006 and continued to be served by the three brands of Fiat, Citroen and Peugeot. A facelift was launched in 2014 and was introduced to the North American and Canadian markets as the Ram ProMaster.

Euro 6 versions were introduced in 2016, with Euro 6d-Temp models featuring minor exterior and infotainment improvements launching in 2019.

A Ducato BEV (battery electric vehicle) with maximum power of 90kW, is due for launch during 2020.

WHY

The current Fiat Ducato range

• Four body lengths and three roof heights
• Front wheel drive
• Four trim levels
• Manual and automatic transmission
• Bodies include
  • Panel van
  • 6-seat Double Cab Crew Van
  • Dropside, Tipper and passenger variants
  • Chassis, Crew Cab Chassis, Platform cab and Back To Backs for conversions
• Euro 6d-Temp front wheel drive light duty engine line up
  • 2.3-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine with outputs of 120bhp, 140bhp, 160bhp and 180bhp

Standard specification on the 2016 Ducato Euro 6 included a full height bulkhead, driver’s seat arm rest and lumbar support, Bluetooth radio incorporating MP3, USB and AUX, steering wheel controls for radio, and electric heated mirrors and speed limiter. Safety features included Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Lane departure warning was fitted to 4.0-tonne and 4.2-tonne GVW models as standard.

Power to the front wheels came from the smooth and efficient 2.3-litre Multijet II EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) engine with outputs of 115bhp, 130bhp, 150bhp and 180bhp, all linked to a manual gearbox. These models did not require AdBlue to achieve Euro 6 standards.

The Tecnico trim level added air conditioning, DAB radio with 5” touchscreen and USB/AUX inputs, Bluetooth connectivity, reverse parking sensors, steering wheel controls, cruise control with variable speed limiter, satellite navigation and an alarm.

WHAT’S GOOD?

• Huge variety of models
• Smooth economical engines
• No AdBlue required for 2016 EGR models
• Good handling
• Well built
• Payloads up with the best in the sector
• Ample storage and cupholders
• Good turning circle
• Three piece unpainted bumpers on all models (except Sportivo)

WHAT’S BAD?

• Engines noisy
• Seats not the comfiest
• Driving position slightly awkward – limited legroom for taller drivers
• Cabin plastics not of a high quality
• Potential gearbox faults. Listen for whining noises
• Electronics issues affecting dashboard, airbags and ABS
• EGR valves known to stick

IDEAL BUY?

Fiat Ducato 30 Technico 2.3 Multijst II 130bhp Euro 6 SH1 van

Registraion plate: 2016/66

Mileage: 45,000 miles

Glass’s Retail £9,525 Excl VAT

Glass’s Trade £7,500 Excl VAT