Multi-taAing MUltijet
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It's been five years since the Doble Cargo first lifted the coveted International Van at the Year title. During that time the high-cube van sector has swollen with competitors, so the new Dc11316 Cargo's resurgence to the top spot was no small achievement.
Wisely, Fiat has concentrated on the basics, equipping the new Doblo Cargo with a range of economical engines, a larger load space and a more appealing look. While the old van was no beast, the new DoblO Cargo exudes Italian style with head-turning looks both inside and out. The increased capacity, now up to a class-leading 4.2m3 in this long wheelbase van, makes the new Doblb Cargo a fraction larger (110min) across its waist and 464mm
higher than its predecessor. Maximum payload for the short wheelbase van is 750kg but, for this model, you can load the scales with up to one tonne of ballast. But it's the engines that sell the Doble Cargo, with a range of economical turbo-diesels available as a 1.3-litre Multijet, 1.6-litre Multijet and the range topping 2.0litre Multijet. For those that prefer a petrol engine, there's also a peppy 95hp 1.4-litre unit that returns nearly 40mpg.
Our test model came with the more generous SX trim instead of the basic Cargo option, providing us with a bulkhead, remote central locking, and a PVC lining for the load space. Additional options include Blue&Me13 luetooth, metallic paint, a multifunction steering wheel and electric mirrors. However, the stop/start system would top our list of extras, as it brings all the engines up to meet Euro-5 — with the exception of the 2.0-litre diesel which already meets the standard.
Prices for the Dob16 Cargo start at £11,305 for the base I.4-litre petrol, rising to ,E16,105 for the Maxi SX 2.0-litre (tested here).
Productivity In previous tests of Fiat's Multijet engines we've been impressed with the superb economy, and have seen figures as high as 67mpg during unladen tests of the 1.3-litre Dobro Cargo. With a varied diet of city, motorway and country routes, the 2.0-litre Multi jet recorded over 50mpg, impressing us with its levels of torque and ability to pull through in higher gears.
Loading and unloading was made easier thanks to the twin sliding doors on our test vehicle and the low loading lip height (545mm) coupled with rear doors that open to 180 degrees. The Maxi's extended wheelbase also increases load length from 1.8m to 2.17m and payload from 750kg to 1,000kg, Cab comfort The Doblo Cargo is aimed squarely at fleet buyers and it dresses to impress. It's not what you'd expect a tough, no-nonsense van to look like, and is instead pleasing both aesthetically and ergonomically.
The slightly textured dash looks classy and feels tough. The smoked glass of the radio adds a touch of car-like refinement to the centre console, and the design of the handles — that you cleverly push down to lock — shows real ingenuity.
There's an abundance of storage. with overhead shelves, door cubbies and a useful dash pocket to the right of the steering wheel, not to mention coat hooks on the bulkhead. The seating position is low, but comfortable, and while forward visibility is good, the view to the rear is exceptional. thanks to the large split wing mirrors. Although the DohlO Cargo's extra width has improved load space, it has made finding a comfortable spot for your right arm difficult: however there is an arm rest on the left and the steering wheel does adjust for both rake and reach.
On the road The abundance of power from the 2.0-litre diesel engine made driving the Doblii Cargo a real pleasure. Power isn't the Dobla Cargo's only ace, though. The suspension and chassis work well to deliver a smooth and comfortable ride, and the poise and handling shown by our Doble Cargo was remarkable for a long wheelbase van.
The 320Nm of torque can work in your favour when fully loaded and certainly makes trundling around town in a single gear a lot easier. However, it does create a whiff of torque steer and, on occasions, you wish there were five wider gear ratios rather than six.
Verdict Taking the productivity, purchase price and overall quality of the Doble Cargo package, it's hard to see this van not succeeding. Fleet buyers will love the potential cost reductions provided by the 1.3-litre unit, while owner-drivers will find our 2.0-litre test van an engaging and charismatic worker. Definitely one for the fleet shortlist. •