Stuart from VanLeasingQuotes.com takes a look at the striking new Fiat Scudo to see whether the new model is more than just a pretty face:Vans used to be all about function and practicality but manufacturers now realise that good looks are also on the agenda for the UK’s average van driver. The Fiat Scudo is a great example of modern, striking design and when put beside some of its competitors it’s certainly a head turner.
Design might be more important these days but we all know it’s never going to be on the top of the agenda for those looking to select a new model for their next van lease or van contract hire agreement.
So, looks aside, how does the Fiat Scudo fair against its competitors and could it be your next van?
Size Matters
The Scudo is larger than its predecessor. It used to occupy the void between Ford Transit-sized and Vauxhall Combo-sized vehicles but it’s now firmly competing with the Ford Transit, Volkswagen Transporter and Vauxhall Vivaro. Size-wise it has a number of varying roof height and wheel base options as well as a combi version and platform cab option for conversions. So it really is a flexible offer, which makes it an ideal van leasing option for a number of different business types. With two full height rear doors it’s also a breeze for load access.
Creature Comforts
You’re next van lease or van contract hire agreement is going to last at least 36 months so you best make sure your van of choice provides the comfort you and your colleagues need! In that case you’ll be happy to know that the Scudo is a great van in terms of comfort. The cab area offers supportive seating, a comfortable driving position and lots of extra storage space. With a CD player, power steering, remote central locking and an adjustable drivers seat as standard, Fiat really have taken comfort into consideration with this upgraded model. One downside is that, whilst the Scudo offers great comfort for 2 in the cab area, it does become a bit of a squeeze with all 3 seats occupied… better make sure your 3rd van man (or woman) is a skinny one!
On the Road
As you’d expect when leasing a Fiat vehicle, the Multijet diesel engines in both the 1.6 and 2.0 litre options are strong and offer plenty of torque. Add to this the surprisingly light steering and good cornering for a panel van of its size as well as powerful braking with EBD and ABS as standard. This is a great van to drive with the possible exception of a fairly noisy cab area if you opt for a model without the full bulkhead – but I’m nit picking!
The Verdict
So your looking for your next van lease; should the Fiat Scudo be your vehicle of choice? Quite probably I would say – It’s a great looking, modern van that drives well and is comfortable… what more could you want for your van leasing or van contract hire agreement? The only thing I would say is that Fiat might be missing a trick by increasing the size of the van to compete with the likes of the Transporter and Vivaro. The Scudo used to fill that void between van sizes and made a nice little niche for itself. Now it’s competing with the big boys, however this is a great van and there’s no reason you wouldn’t lease this vehicle over a Transporter, Vivaro or Transit.
Scudo Van Leasing at a Glance – What you Need to Know
ENGINES: (Multijet diesel)
90bhp 1.6
120bhp 2.0
140bhp 2.0
MAXIMUM PAYLOAD: 1,000kg - 1,200kg
LOAD VOLUME: 5m3 - 7m3
KERB WEIGHT: 1,661kg - 1,763kg
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