Fiat Doblo Review 2026
Fiat Doblo Verdict
Huge space. Massively practical. Great diesel engines. Decent ride quality and hardwearing interior.
Can be noisy especially under hard acceleration. Styling not to everyone's taste. Lacks refinement.
Find out more about the Fiat Doblo
Insurance Groups are between 4–13
On average it achieves 90% of the official MPG figure
The original Doblo, launched in 2001, was little more than a van with windows. And there was nothing wrong with that, it was an honest, reliable car that proved great value for buyers looking for massive space on a small budget.
And now, nine years on, the 2010 Doblo has moved the game on. The best bits remain: it's incredibly practical, has a huge amount of space inside and comes with some excellent engines, but it's so much more car-like than before. That's because it now shares much with the Punto Evo on which it's based. It handles better, has a far more user-friendly and attractive interior and gets a whole raft of electronic goodies including ESP with hill hold function, hands-free phone connectivity and touch-screen Blue&Me TomTom satellite navigation.
A lot more thought has gone into how it looks this time round, too, with a number of styling tricks that make you think that you're looking at more than just a van with windows. There's no getting away from the overall van-like shape, but Fiat has created a floating roof, large glazed side area and what on first glance seems like a huge screen at the back, all of which makes Doblo look far more interesting and differentiates it from similar models. Styling-wise it now has more in common with the likes of the Skoda Roomster and even the Kia Soul than other van-based cars.
All cars come with five seats and a huge boot as standard, but as with the previous generation model, it's possible to specify two seats in the huge boot space, turning it into an affordable seven-seater.
Engines come in the shape of a 1.4-litre petrol and 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre diesel. The two diesels are the pick of the range. They're powerful, punchy and incredibly efficient, keeping Doblo's CO2 emissions - and therefore running costs - down.
Reviews for Fiat Doblo's top 3 rivals
.jpg?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
Fiat Doblo handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.4 to 2.0 MultiJet
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 25–54 mpg
The engines in the 2010 Doblo significantly outperform those in the old model and, crucially, they're a lot cleaner and provide better economy too. The sole petrol is a 95bhp 1.4-litre 16v engine. Power is up on the previous model by 18bhp and torque is pretty flat between 1500 and 400rpm.
The Multijet diesels are the stars of the show, though. The first, a 1.6-litre with 105bhp, replaces the old 1.9-litre JTD. Although it has the same 105bhp power output as the old car, it's improved in almost every other respect. Torque is up by 90nm to 290nm, while emissions have tumbled from 153 g/km in the old 1.9 JTD to 138 g/km, knocking it down a couple of Road Tax bands in the process.
That's thanks to a diesel particulate filter and a system to recirculate exhaust gases; owners will also get better economy as the Combined Cycle figure is now 54.3mpg - a 5.6mpg improvement.
The range-topping 2.0-litre Multijet is a surprisingly powerful engine. It feels far more powerful than its 135bhp figure suggests, especially at lower speeds where it provides plenty of low-down pulling power. It's quick for its size, too, with 60mph achieved in just over 11 seconds and a top speed of 111mph possible. With 320nm of torque available at just 1500rpm and a braked towing weight of 1500kg, this is the version for towing small and medium trailers and horseboxes, further underlining Doblo's credentials as a practical workhorse. Economy is good, too, with 49.6mpg on the Combined cycle and emissions of 150 g/km CO2.
The 1.4-litre petrol engine get a five-speed manual transmission, while the two diesels have a smooth six-speed transmission. An auto is available on the 1.6-litre diesel. It can either be a traditional automatic, or the driver can make changes by pushing or pulling on th gearlever.
Out on the road, Doblo's Punto Evo underpinnings soon become clear. It steers well, has plenty of grip and bodyroll is kept well in check. The ride is a bid fidgety when there's just the driver on board, but once fully loaded, Doblo feels far more settled. Around town, it's easy to manoeuvre and park, with a tight turning circle and plenty of visibility. All cars have a Start&Stop as standard, which cuts the engine when it's idling at traffic lights or in heavy traffic. It's re-started automatically by pressing the clutch.
It can be off-putting when you first use it, but soon becomes second nature. It does a good job of reducing unnecessary fuel consumption. And that's also the aim of eco:Drive, an on-board fuel efficiency tool that can cut consumption by up to 15 per cent, which can add up to a saving of £175over 12 months. On the move it gathers information on the car's efficiency and stores it to a USB stick. This can then be analysed online to show you how drive more efficiently.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4 | 39 mpg | 15.4 s | 165–166 g/km |
| 1.4 95 | 39 mpg | 15.4 s | 165 g/km |
| 1.6 | 39 mpg | 15.4 s | 165 g/km |
| 1.6 MultiJet 105 | 38–54 mpg | 13.4–15.9 s | 138–171 g/km |
| 1.6 MultiJet 120 | 49–54 mpg | 12.1–12.6 s | 137 g/km |
| 1.6 MultiJet 90 Dualogic | 38–57 mpg | 13.9–15.9 s | 133–171 g/km |
| 1.6 MultiJet 95 | 49–54 mpg | 13.9–14.4 s | 137 g/km |
| 1.6 MultiJet Dualogic | 57 mpg | 15.4 s | 133 g/km |
| 2.0 MultiJet | 46–50 mpg | 11.3–11.8 s | 150–163 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Fiat Doblo
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
90%
Real MPG
25–54 mpg
MPGs submitted
49
Fiat Doblo interior
- Boot space is 790–3200 litres
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4390–4740 mm |
| Width | 1832 mm |
| Height | 1845–1905 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2755–3105 mm |
The first thing that strikes you about the interior of the Doblo is the sheer amount of space. The square shape lends itself to excellent headroom and there's plenty of shoulderoom inside for passengers too. The large front screen and big side windows lets in loads of light, making it particularly light and airy inside, while providing the driver with great all-round visibility.
The driver benefits from a commanding driving position, with a seat that's multi-adjustable and a steering wheel that adjusts for height and reach. There are also steering wheel-mounted controls for the stereo, too. The new dash is smart, practical and, as it's partly shared with the van version of the Doblo, should take everyday knocks and scrapes in its stride.
Blue&Me - a system for phone connectivity and satellite navigation - which is available on several other Fiats, is now available on Doblo as an option. It's a touch screen TomTom that's integrated with the car. It's a great compromise between a built-in system and an off-the shelf portable sat nav. It's portable and works in synch with the car, yet costs a fraction of the cost of an integrated system.
The boot is huge, too. Five seat versions have a colossal 790 litres on offer, which will be more than enough for the needs of most families. In fact, it's so large that there's room for two extra seats, which can be specified on Dynamic and Eleganza versions at extra cost to turn Doblo into a value-for-money seven-seater. All the seats in rows two and, where fitted, three can be folded and tumbled or removed altogether for a incredibly practical 3200-litre load area.
It's easy to load too. The large tailgate lifts up and with no lip, large objects can slide straight in. An adjustable parcel shelf does a good job of disguising anything that's in the boot and is capable of supporting up to 70kg. Elsewhere in the cabin there are lots of built-in storage area, including a large shelf above the windscreen and large door bins.
Getting in and out of the Doblo is easy for passengers. The big sliding doors can be opened simply and quickly from either the outside or inside by pulling on large grab-handles, which are more practical than on other small MPVs. The large opening provides plenty of space for entering the car in comfort, plus it's close to the ground, too, which means you don't need to step up into it.
Equipment levels from launch:
Active has height and reach adjustable steering wheel, electric front windows, remote central locking, a radio CD player, three rear head restraints, body coloured bumpers and body coloured door mirrors with indicator repeaters.
Dynamic gets manual air-conditioning, remote central locking and a height adjustable driver's seat.
Eleganza includes electric rear windows, electric heated door mirrors, front fog lights, a leather steering wheel and gear knob and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Fiat Doblo models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4390–4740 mm |
| Width | 1832 mm |
| Height | 1845–1905 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2755–3105 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1340–1500 kg |
| Boot Space | 790–3200 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 120000 miles |
| Servicing | 18000–21000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Tyre-repair kit | ||
| Alternative | Full-size spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £14,400–£21,670 |
| Insurance Groups | 4–13 |
| Road Tax Bands | E–H |
| Official MPG | 38.2–56.5 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | - |
Currently on sale
On sale until June 2016
| Small MPV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Maxi Estate LWB 1.6 105 Mljt MyLife 5dr | £17,575 | 54.3 mpg | 13.4 s |
| Maxi Estate LWB 1.6 105 Multijet Eleganza 5dr | £18,375 | 54.3 mpg | 13.4 s |
| Maxi Estate LWB 1.6 90 Multijet Eleganza Dualogic 5dr | £19,175 | 56.5 mpg | 15.4 s |
| Maxi Estate LWB 1.6 90 Multijet MyLife Dualogic 5dr | £18,375 | 56.5 mpg | 15.4 s |
On sale until April 2015
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.6 Easy Air Multijet 105 5dr | £16,245 | 54.3 mpg | 13.4 s |
| 1.6 Easy Multijet 105 5dr | £15,900 | 54.3 mpg | 13.4 s |
| 1.6 Easy Multijet 90 Dualogic 5dr Auto | £16,700 | 56.5 mpg | 15.4 s |
| 1.6 Lounge Multijet 105 5dr | £17,980 | 54.3 mpg | 13.4 s |
| 1.6 Lounge Multijet 90 Dualogic 5dr Auto | £18,780 | 56.5 mpg | 15.4 s |
On sale until January 2015
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.4 Eleganza 95 5dr | £15,280 | 39.2 mpg | 15.4 s |
| 1.4 Eleganza 95 High Roof 5dr | £16,275 | 38.2 mpg | 15.9 s |
| 1.4 MyLife 95 5dr | £14,480 | 39.2 mpg | 15.4 s |
| 1.4 MyLife 95 High Roof 5dr | £15,475 | 38.2 mpg | 15.9 s |
| 1.6 Eleganza MultiJet 105 5dr | £17,780 | 54.3 mpg | 13.4 s |
| 1.6 Eleganza MultiJet 105 High Roof 5dr | £18,680 | 49.6 mpg | 13.9 s |
| 1.6 Eleganza MultiJet 90 Dualogic 5dr Auto | £18,580 | 56.5 mpg | 15.4 s |
| 1.6 Eleganza MultiJet 90 High Roof Dualogic 5dr Auto | £19,515 | 48.7 mpg | 15.9 s |
| 1.6 MyLife MultiJet 105 5dr | £16,980 | 54.3 mpg | 13.4 s |
| 1.6 MyLife MultiJet 105 High Roof 5dr | £17,880 | 49.6 mpg | 13.9 s |
| 1.6 MyLife MultiJet 90 Dualogic 5dr Auto | £17,780 | 56.5 mpg | 15.4 s |
| 1.6 MyLife MultiJet 90 High Roof Dualogic 5dr Auto | £18,715 | 48.7 mpg | 15.9 s |
| 2.0 Eleganza MultiJet 135 5dr | £18,080 | 47.9 mpg | 11.3 s |
| 2.0 Eleganza MultiJet 135 High Roof 5dr | £18,965 | 45.6 mpg | 11.8 s |
On sale until May 2014
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.4 Active 5dr | £13,470 | 39.2 mpg | 15.4 s |
| 1.6 MultiJet 105 Active 5dr | £15,860 | 54.3 mpg | 13.4 s |
On sale until July 2011
| People Carrier | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.4 16v Active 5dr | £13,300 | 39.2 mpg | 15.4 s |
| 1.4 16v Dynamic 5dr | £13,660 | 39.2 mpg | 15.4 s |
| 1.4 16v Eleganza 5dr | £14,480 | 39.2 mpg | 15.4 s |
| 1.6 16v MultiJet 90 Dynamic Dualogic 5dr Auto | £17,335 | 56.5 mpg | 15.4 s |
| 1.6 16v MultiJet 90 Eleganza Dualogic 5dr Auto | £18,155 | 56.5 mpg | 15.4 s |
| 1.6 16v MultiJet Active 5dr | £15,700 | 54.3 mpg | 13.4 s |
| 1.6 16v MultiJet Dynamic 5dr | £16,360 | 54.3 mpg | 13.4 s |
| 1.6 16v MultiJet Eleganza 5dr | £17,180 | 54.3 mpg | 13.4 s |
| 2.0 16v MultiJet Dynamic 5dr | £16,730 | 49.6 mpg | 11.3 s |
| 2.0 16v MultiJet Eleganza 5dr | £17,550 | 49.6 mpg | 11.3 s |
Model History
March 2010
New Doblo launched
Eight versions of the Doblo featuring seating for up to seven will be available when it goes on sale this month, with prices ranging from £12,295 to £17,145 (OTR). As well as a sophisticated new appearance, all incorporate innovative bi-link rear suspension for a high level of comfort. The longest wheelbase in the segment doesn't just mean more room for passengers but more space for their luggage too, with a roomy 790-litre boot that can be expanded to a class-topping 3200 litres.
There is a choice of three high-tech engines, all of which produce more power and torque than their predecessors while drinking less fuel and emitting less carbon dioxide. The 1.6 16v and 2.0-litre turbodiesels employ Fiat's ground-breaking MultiJet technology to combine best-in-class fuel consumption and exhaust emissions with lively yet smooth responses. They also feature a new six-speed manual gearbox while the 1.6 will also become available with an automatic.
The 1.4 16v petrol engine is the perfect range starter with a punchy 95bhp, and like its diesel siblings it complies with Euro 5 emissions standards. Whatever the engine, all models come with Start&Stop and also feature a gearshift indicator to tell you when it's the most fuel-efficient moment to change gear.
Inside, the Doblo is all about the family and its interior has been designed to reflect this, combining safety and comfort with a high degree of functionality. Five seats come as standard but a third row can be specified to bring the number to seven. The two back rows of chairs fold and tumble to liberate a vast amount of space in seconds. They can even be removed if you need more space. It means the new Doblo can accommodate just about any combination of passengers and their luggage.
As safety is top of the list for the majority of families, the Doblo follows every other Fiat by featuring state-of-the-art safety technology. ESP Electronic Stability Programme is standard. This includes a Hill Holder function so all the driver has to do is concentrate on other road users rather than the mechanics of a hill start.
ABS anti-lock brakes are standard, accompanied by EBD Electronic Brake Distribution to maximise stopping power. Also standard fit are front and new full-size side airbags, and crumple zones designed to shield passengers from the forces of an impact. In the event of damage, new Doblo has been built so that it's simple to repair, thus keeping insurance costs to a minimum.
Whether it's Active, Dynamic or Eleganza versions, the all-new interior hasn't just been designed to be safe and functional. The new dashboard, instruments, upholstery, seats and steering wheel are also good looking and comfortable. And the Doblo has been crammed with features more typical of a high-end family car.
Height and reach adjustable steering wheel, rear head restraints, electric front windows, remote central locking and a radio/CD player are standard in all models. Climate control is available too, as are cruise control, parking sensors, anti-whiplash front head restraints and the Blue&Me handsfree system.
Blue&Me TomTom can also be specified. This revolutionary system features a practical colour touch screen that acts as a hub for a mobile phone, navigation system and information about the car. It is even sophisticated enough to point the driver to the nearest fuel station when it detects the tank is nearly empty. It's also fully portable to combine the best attributes of aftermarket and factory fit systems.
Included is Fiat's ground-breaking eco:Drive system to give real-time fuel consumption information and advice on how to get the best economy out of the Doblo.
All this kit is wrapped in stylish new bodywork with an eye-catching yet sleek front end, robust wide wheel arches and a squared off rear that emphasises how practical the Doblo's interior is.
Fiat Doblo has always been the ultimate value-for-money family hold-all. And while the all-new version retains just 3 per cent of the previous model's parts, it builds on its concept by offering class-leading levels of comfort and carrying capacity.
Sitting on a comprehensively-adapted version of the platform that underpins the new Punto Evo, new Doblo is a versatile, spacious MPV that has passengers' comfort at heart. Underneath is a sophisticated bi-link independent rear suspension. Light yet compact so that there's minimal intrusion into the luggage compartment, this suspension is fitted with an anti-roll bar for a comfortable and forgiving ride. And it works with MacPherson independent front suspension to offer drivers excellent dynamic responses.
The combination means that in ride terms, the Doblo can compete with far more expensive small MPVs and offer superior comfort to more traditional rivals from the budget class. And it's endowed with sufficient size and flexibility to make it a true all rounder. At 4.39m, it's 137mm longer than the model it replaces. But while the increase in length isn't enough to have an impact on the Doblo's manoeuvrability, it boosts the wheelbase by 172mm to a class-leading 2.75m, yielding more passenger space.
The boot has been enlarged as well. New Doblo's luggage compartment is a sizeable 790 litres, again class-leading. But it's the flexibility of this load area that's one of the new car's most impressive attributes.
Designed for all shapes and sizes of family, it has a highly versatile seating arrangement, meaning it can accommodate just about any combination of passengers and their luggage. Regular models come with five seats, but Dynamic and Eleganza versions can be specified with a third row of two extra chairs. All the seats in rows two and three tumble and fold or can be removed altogether. Doing that frees a cavernous 3200 litres of load space.
To make the most of the boot room there's a clever height adjustable parcel shelf. This can either hide what's in the luggage compartment or be dropped to a lowered position. In this mode it's capable of supporting up to 70kg and can combine with folded rear seats to provide a perfectly flat load area.
To ensure all this space is easily accessible the Doblo comes with twin sliding rear doors as standard. A large, wide tailgate with a conveniently low lip makes getting things in and out of the boot as easy as possible. Proving its family credentials, a wide range of accessories for active families are offered such as towbar, bike racks and ski carriers.
But the Doblo is a lot more than a load lugger. The seats are a new design with new upholstery. And the cabin has been re-worked with improved ergonomics, a new dashboard, instruments and steering wheel. As Fiat understands about families, there are numerous oddment compartments, including a handy shelf above the windscreen, for stowing everything from mobiles to maps.
Proving that the Doblo really is the value-for-money choice, it comes with an extremely high level of standard equipment. The entry-level Active model features a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, electric front windows, remote central locking, a radio CD player, three rear head restraints, body coloured bumpers and body coloured door mirrors with indicator repeaters.
The mid-range Dynamic model builds on that with manual air-conditioning, remote central locking and a height adjustable driver's seat. Meanwhile the luxurious Eleganza model features equipment to put far pricier models to shame. It has electric rear windows, electric heated door mirrors, front fog lights, a leather steering wheel and gear knob and 16-inch alloy wheels.
So that drivers can focus on driving rather than fumbling with maps, making phone calls or entertaining the kids, the Doblo can be ordered with Fiat's impressive Blue&Me hands free system or Blue&Me TomTom. The award-winning Blue&Me uses Bluetooth connectivity to let the driver make and manage phone calls or listen to an MP3 player using voice activation or steering wheel controls.
Blue&Me TomTom combines this powerful tool with a 4.3-inch colour screen. Housed in a portable unit, this mounts on the dash to combine a cost-effective alternative to the best of after-market satellite navigation technology with none of the aggravation, at less than you'd expect to pay for a manufacturer's original equipment. It offers the latest in sat nav technology such as touch screen controls, differing voice choices and full European coverage.
As well as showing you where to go, it talks to the Doblo's in-car computer to provide information about your driving. But this is much more than a simple trip computer. It uses Fiat's widely acclaimed eco:Drive programme.
Designed in conjunction with software giant Microsoft, eco:Drive gathers information on vehicle efficiency and driving style. This data can be transmitted through the USB port of the Blue&Me infotainment system to a standard USB key. Read that on a computer and a website will analyse how efficient the driver is in terms of fuel consumption and emissions, provide a score out of 100 on an eco:Index, and offer tutorials to help improve that score and achieve more eco-friendly driving.
But Blue&Me TomTom has allowed Fiat to take eco:Drive a step further by giving real-time indication of fuel consumption and advice on how best to drive economically.
The award-winning eco:Drive is such a powerful tool, it can improve economy by up to 15 per cent, saving drivers between £105 and £175 a year in fuel costs. And when the Doblo's tank does eventually start to run dry, Blue&Me TomTom will flash directions to the nearest fuel station.
Every model in the range comes with Start&Stop as standard. This cuts the engine when it would usually be idling, to stop drivers wasting expensive fuel when they're not going anywhere. Dip the clutch and the engine automatically fires up. It's a simple device but is reckoned to reduce consumption by 15 per cent, no matter which engine. A gearshift indicator is also standard across the range. This tells you when it's the optimum moment to change gear - either up or down - in order to maximise pulling power or miles per gallon.
With these two features standard across the range, even the entry-level 1.4-litre 16v petrol engine is Euro 5 emissions compliant. Not only is its 166g/km of CO2 8g/km lower than the engine it replaces, the 95bhp unit also has 18bhp more. Flexibility is enhanced by a very flat torque curve between 1500 and 4000rpm, together with a slick five-speed manual gearbox. All of which allows this engine to return an impressive 39.2mpg on the combined cycle, allied to gutsy performance, making it ideal for round-town driving.
The two MultiJet engines feature all-new six-speed manual gearboxes. The 1.6 16v will also become available with Fiat's smooth MTA (Manual Transmission Automated) five-speed. It can either be left to control the changes itself or for added involvement the driver can prompt changes by pushing or pulling on the gearlever.
Showing the strides that Fiat Powertrain Technologies has taken, the 1.6-litre unit provides the same 105bhp power output as the 1.9 it replaces. However, its maximum 290Nm of torque is 90Nm up on its predecessor, making it an even more relaxing drive. The hike in pulling power that makes this the highest performer among engines of its kind and size is partially thanks to an electronically controlled fixed geometry turbocharger.
But the 1.6 16v isn't just about performance. Carbon dioxide emissions of 138g/km are significantly reduced in comparison to the 1.9. This is thanks to the close-coupled Diesel Particulate Filter and a built-in Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system that improves the control of gas temperature and flow. On top of this, fuel consumption over the combined cycle is boosted to 54.3mpg, a 5.6mpg improvement.
The new MultiJet engines don't just save money at the pumps; they're also cheap to service. Engine inspections now only occur every 21,000 miles meaning a 25 per cent saving on scheduled servicing over 56,000 miles.
Top of the range is the 2.0-litre MultiJet. This development of the trusty 1.9 also features an electronically controlled fixed geometry turbocharger to enhance torque even at low engine speeds. The result is 135bhp and a lusty 320Nm of torque, an impressive 120Nm more than the engine it replaces. This doesn't just mean any load can be transported effortlessly, it also adds to the Doblo's versatility by making it a good towing car.
But the improvements haven't all been about performance. The fully integrated and electronically activated EGR valve and cooling system and the same close coupled catalytic converter as the 1.6 result in an impressive increase in economy. Over the combined cycle this is boosted to 49.6mpg, a 3.3mpg improvement over the 1.9. And CO2 emissions are reduced to 150g/km.
As with all Fiats, safety is engineered into the Doblo from the ground up. It sits on MacPherson independent suspension at the front, bi-link with anti-roll bar at the rear. This innovative solution makes for predictable road holding and combines with new hydraulic power steering to maximise grip and responsiveness.
The powerful braking system uses self-ventilating discs at the front, drums at the rear and is supplemented by state-of-the-art electronics to offer stopping power that's unparalleled in its class. On top of this, every car is fitted with ABS anti-lock brakes that work in conjunction with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). This enables every driver to extract the absolute maximum from their car's braking system when it really matters.
The Doblo is also the only car in its class to feature Electronic Stability Programme in every model. This combines with automatic Hill Holder that enables drivers to pull off the perfect hill start without the stress of juggling accelerator, clutch and hand brake.
Although Fiat has made every effort to assist Doblo drivers in avoiding accidents, it's also taken measures to ensure they're safe in the event of incident. Crumple zones to dissipate energy are built-in, while head restraints are fitted as standard to every Doblo in the range. And anti-whiplash front head restraints can be specified on Dynamic and Eleganza models. Every car is fitted with driver and passenger air bags as standard. Next generation side bags are also included across the range. These are larger than previous side airbags to offer greater head and chest protection.
To make motorway driving as effortless as possible, cruise control is available on Dynamic and Eleganza models while fog lights are standard on Eleganza and optional on Active and Dynamic versions.
Safety has also been integrated into the Doblo's stylish and personable appearance. The large windscreen doesn't just brighten up the inside; it also gives occupants, and particularly the driver, superb visibility. This is further aided by flat blade windscreen wipers with a low aerodynamic profile to help minimise noise from air turbulence. Then there are sturdy body-coloured bumpers that incorporate protection from knocks in vulnerable areas at the sides and centre of the Doblo's nose. And a rubbing strip that runs down the flanks safeguards against nudges and emphasises the prominent wheel arches and sculpted sides.
As with the front, the rear is characterised by a large glass area with excellent visibility. New-look rear light clusters with clear lenses neatly frame the sides while the body-coloured rear bumper forms part of the rear tailgate and blends seamlessly into the rear wings. The overall impression highlights the Doblo's load-carrying credentials.
Even the guides for the rear sliding doors have been cleverly integrated into the bodywork so they're almost invisible. And the rear doors are big enough to incorporate full-size electric rear windows. That's a first for this class of car and proof that the new Doblo makes it possible to buy the style of a more expensive MPV for a significantly smaller outlay.
December 2011
Can also be supplied with Traction Control and Fiat's very effective off road diff called 'Traction Plus'.
