Fiat Doblo

The new Doblo is certainly an improvement on the previous version. It looks, drives and handles better. Add onto this an up-to-date interior with improved levels of standard equipment, plus a competitive pricetag and there's lots to like about Fiat's latest family car.

Make some room for the new Doblo. Fiat’s practical people carrier is back, and this time it has more space than ever. With longer, wider and taller dimensions, plus updated styling, the new Doblo has rivals like the Skoda Roomster and Citroen Berlingo firmly in its sights.

The Doblo still looks boxy, and its unique appearance will still split opinion, but Fiat has made a good attempt at making it that much easier to love. The front end now looks more up-to-date and the overall outline is softer and easier on the eye compared to the previous version.

Inside, the cabin has been given a dramatic makeover too. The spacious design means the Doblo is a relaxing place to be and with lots of headroom and plenty of space for five passengers, the Doblo is ideal for big families. For an extra £800, Fiat can also fit two extra seats in the rear. But if you want to stick with the more standard five seat set-up, the Doblo has a class-leading 790-litres of boot space and the parcel shelf is extremely sturdy, with the capability of supporting up to 70kg.

The engine line-up has been updated too, with three new options available made up of a 1.4-litre petrol, and 1.6 and 2.0-litre MultiJet diesels. Fiat expects the 1.6 diesel to be its biggest seller and this is the version that we tested.

Delivering 105bhp and 290Nm of torque the Doblo feels surprisingly quick despite its passive 0-62mph time, and it feels good all the way up through the ranges too, with more than enough power when you need it. Fuel economy is rated at 54.3mpg which is good for its class, and emissions are measured at a very respectable 138g/km.

Handling has been improved too, steering feels more precise now, grip is surprisingly good, with body-roll far less evident than in the previous car. The Doblo is also very competitively priced. Starting from £12,295 for the entry-level 1.4-litre Active petrol, the cheapest model in the range costs less than its equivalent Skoda and Renault rivals. Combin this with its improved driving characteristics and high levels of practicality, the new Doblo makes a very strong case for itself and would make an attractive all round alternative to the usual suspects if you’re in the market for a new family car.