Fiat is set to take on the Light Commercial Vehicle sector with the introduction of its new offering, the Fiat Fiorino. The Fiorino panel van goes head-to-head with South Africa’s traditional three-quarter ton bakkie offerings with greater versatility, comfort and safety on offer.
The most compact model in the Fiat Professional range, the Fiorino is slight enough to manage city traffic and day-to-day deliveries but vast enough to accommodate large and even irregular or intricately configured loads.
Measuring3.86 metresin length, it offers ample room and intelligent solutions for loading and unloading of goods. The load volume of 2.5 cubic metres can be increased to 2.8 cubic metres, with a loading length of 2.5 metres, thanks to a stowable front passenger seat.
The highly functional configuration of the Fiorino makes loading a breeze. The large side-hinged rear doors offer optimal load breadth and height thanks to a low load threshold, high roofline and favourable width between wheel arches.
The sliding side door is available as standard fitment on the 1.3 diesel model and as an optional extra on the 1.4 petrol model. A second sliding side door is also available as an option, further adding to the practicality by allowing one to easily access goods in the load bay no matter where they are loaded. This is a distinct advantage over a bakkie fitted with a canopy where one would not be able to access items loaded first or at the rear of the load bay.
For those concerned with the security of their goods the Fiorino’s panel van layout means all goods are securely hidden from prying eyes, while the option of a separate unlocking feature for the front and rear doors is available if desired.. The optional locking system offered in combination with the remote central locking option allows one to use the load compartment even when the driver’s cab is closed, thus guaranteeing greater safety during loading and unloading operations.
Proven petrol and diesel engines ensure optimal running costs. The 1.4-litre petrol derivative produces 54kW @ 5 200rpm and offers a maximum torque output of 118Nm @ 2600rpm. Its multipoint sequential phased electronic injection system insures performance comes at no sacrifice to fuel consumption with the 1360cc engine returning fuel consumption figures of 6.4l/100km on a combined cycle route.
The 1.3-litre diesel unit uses Fiat’s advanced electronically controlled common rail Multijet direct injection system with turbo and intercooler. Power output clocks in at 55kW @ 4000rpm with a torque peak of 190Nm @ 1500rpm resulting in versatile performance no matter what the load or conditions.
Fuel consumption remains frugal at just 4.6l/100km on the combined cycle run. That figure can be reduced to a remarkable 3.9l/100km on the open road. Emitting just 123g of CO2 per kilometer, its green credentials are not to be scoffed at either.
The Fiat Fiorino is not only a practical business asset; it offers a dynamic exterior design that presents a professional appearance for the business owner. Its rounded shapes, beefy front-end and robust stance combine to create a charismatic design.
The dynamic exterior lines are emphasised by modern, original headlights that add character to the front-end. The optional fog lights built into the bumpers ensure outstanding visibility under any conditions. The sliding side doors blend perfectly into the side panel while the vertical exterior handle offers excellent grip and can be opened with either hand.
A range of accessories can also be ordered to increase the Fiorino’s practicality and comfort even further. A one-piece steel roof rack can be used to carry bulky packages and materials. With a capacity of 80kg it can be complimented by a useful roller for loading long objects with minimal effort. A set of three steel bars can also be fitted, offering a capacity of 90kg. A tow hook is available in fixed or removable configurations.
The bright, modern, roomy cab combines practical, functional features with advanced ergonomics designed to ensure comfort and well-being for intensive professional use.
Standard equipment includes hydraulic power steering, driver and passenger airbags, and ABS brakes with EBD for enhanced safety. The centre console is equipped with an ashtray, cup holders, a cigarette lighter and a 12v socket. The numerous storage compartments and a roomy glove compartment mean that there is plenty of room to store personal effects and working documents including a laptop.
Many other options usually found in higher-priced segments are also available, including parking sensors, remote central locking, air conditioning, a car radio with CD player and MP3, steering wheel radio controls, and more. Also available as an option is the new integrated portable Blue&Me™ Tom Tom system that allows one to navigate, make phone calls and listen to music using the touch display, steering wheel controls and USB port on the central tunnel.
The Fiat Fiorino service intervals are stationed 12 months or 20 000kms apart for both petrol and diesel derivatives. A 3 year / 100 000km warranty insures peace of mind while an optional service plan is available as required.