February’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 FIAT Doblo Cargo as “a van covering all the essentials including great fuel economy, near class-leading payload and great handling.”

Andy added, “Following the launch in 2000, buyers recognise the Doblo van as an assured player in the Small Van Sector offering a wide choice of variants, frugal engines and payload solutions for fleets and sole traders alike”.

WHEN WAS IT ON SALE

Launched in 2000, the first generation Doblo received minor updates through its life cycle until the second generation went on sale in 2010. Powered by FIAT’s renowned Multijet II engine, the second generation also launched the Cargo Maxi length and a drop side called the ‘Work Up’. The second generation also became the donor vehicle for the Vauxhall Combo between 2011 and 2018.

When the Doblo received a mid-life facelift in 2015, the engine upgraded to FIAT’s EcoJet technology improving fuel economy further with the most frugal versions managing an official 68.9mpg under the NEDC cycle. The facelift also incorporated standardised Bluetooth, aux in and USB sockets.

WHY

The FIAT Doblo Cargo range

• Two body lengths, Standard and Maxi
• Maxi body includes
  • 5-seat Crew Van
  • Maxi XL high roof
  • Maxi ‘Work Up’ drop side
  • Platform cab for conversions
• Four trim levels
  • Cargo
  • SX
  • Tecnico
  • Sportivo
• Engine line up
  • 1.3JTD 80bhp or 95bhp
  • 1.6JTD 105bhp or 120bhp

Following the 2015 front-end facelift, Euro 6 compliant power units launched in 2016, followed by WLTP Euro 6d rated engines in 2019. Of the original trim levels of Standard and SX, it is the SX that arguably gives the best value for money, especially when paired to the 1.6JTD 105bhp MultiJet II start and stop engine. In addition to the Standard specification, the SX came with height adjustable driver’s seat, soundproofed bulkhead, electric mirrors, load area PVC lining, body coloured electric mirrors, passenger seat storage and fog lights.

WHAT’S GOOD?

• Excellent mix of variants
• Economical manual engines
• Payloads up with the best in this sector
• Comfortable, but hard-wearing cabin
• Decent level of standard specification
• 3-year/unlimited mile warranty

WHAT’S BAD?

• Lacks the latest safety features newer vehicles in this sector have
• Outdated cabin equipment and design
• No automatic gearbox option

IDEAL BUY?

FIAT Doblo Cargo SX 1.6JTD MultiJet II 105bhp van

Registration Plate: 2016/66

Mileage: 41,000 miles

Glass’s Retail £5,925 Excl VAT

Glass’s Trade £4,750 Excl VAT