Fiat Scudo (07 on) - Review

With a combination of two wheelbase lengths and two roof heights the Scudo can offer load volume capacities of 5, 6 or 7 cubic metres, with driver-inclusive payloads of 1000 or 1200kg. Platform cab versions are rate for up to 3000kg of payload. Combi passenger versions can carry up to nine people. Panel vans benefit from a 1245mm of clearance between the rear wheel-arches, sliding load doors on both sides and are equipped with eight fold-away load hooks. A pneumatic suspension system is available as an option, so the Scudo could be lowered to access to height-restricted areas or to aid loading, and contributes to a joint best-in-class load height of 490mm. Another option is the provision of a roof-mounted storage tunnel for carrying lengths of pipework or timber.

ABS braking (which prevents skidding) is standard and the driver gets an airbag with further airbags available as options. Visibility is generally good, although the sloping front-end is out of sight and the windscreen pillars cause a bit of a blind spot. The remote central locking can unlock the cabin while the load compartment remains secured. An electronic stability control system can be specified to help the driver retain control in an emergency situation which is a feature only fitted to the more sophisticated vans. It also includes a hill-holder facility that prevents rolling backwards when pulling away, or reversing, up a hill.

The Scudo undercuts its Citroen and Peugeot relations by around £500 with fuel and insurance costs being comparably low.

The engines tend to be reliable. The Scudo features a fuel pump integrated within the fuel tank, so if it runs out of fuel, a re-fuel will get it going again without the services of a technician. 21 per cent of the 75 Fiat Commercial dealerships have extended opening hours or are open 24 hours for servicing and repairs.