Fiat Ducato 2015 Review

Fiat

The year (2015) is shaping up as a 'battle royale' in Australia's large van market. The next-gen Ford Transit arrived last September and the subject of this review – Fiat Professional's revised Ducato – hit showrooms in December. Iveco's new Daily is also looming, as is Renault's new Master.Fiat sold 933 examples of its Ducato in 2014 (FCAI data), placing it third in the large van market behind Mercedes-Benz's Sprinter (2736 units) and Renault's Master (1086). Ducato sales dropped 10.1 per cent last year while Sprinter and Master sales grew by 23.5 and 35.1 per cent respectively – something Fiat is hoping to address with its revised offering.So, what's different?For starters, there's that restyled front end. With a longer bonnet for easier engine access, higher headlights (now with optional LED daytime running lights) and a new three-part bumper (for cheaper repairs), the new Ducato has a sleeker, more dynamic look.The cab has been updated, there's a new multimedia system and there's now roll-over mitigation, while Fiat says it's enhanced brake performance, clutch life, and suspension operation. The white paint is also new, and is said to offer greater UV resistance.The Ducato is available in three wheelbases, four lengths, two heights and two GVMs (3510kg or 4005kg), while payloads range from 1480-2110kg and capacities from 8-18 cubic metres. The van models are complemented by a cab/chassis variant.