Fiat has unveiled first details of the sixth generation of its Ducato van, first launched in 1981, writes Brian Byrne.
The nameplate is sold in 80 markets, including Russia, Middle East, Australia and Latin America, as well as North American where it is marketed under the RAM brand.
The all-new front end features new DRL headlamps, with optional LEDs, and a new grille design, available in satin silver or piano black, as well as a new three-part front bumper designed to help reduce repair costs. A new bonnet, skid plate and new alloy wheels complete the revised exterior style.
Inside, the new FIAT Ducato offers two cabin environments - Classic or Techno. New seats offer car-like comfort levels on all models, while other enhancements include large new cup holders and a new, segment-exclusive Multifunction Tablet Holder which can safely secure any one of a variety of devices such as smartphones and tablets, as well as normal pads of A4 paper.
The new Ducato features reduced emissions and improved economy by around 10 percent across the Euro 5+ engine range, which includes 2.3 diesels in three power outputs. There is also a 3.0 option with 180hp.
GVW is up to 4.2 tonnes. All versions have as standard a rollover mitigation system integrated to the ESC, and there are Load and Centre of Gravity Detection (LAC), Hill Holder, anti-slip (ASR) and electronic braking assistance (EBA) systems as part of safety and comfort technologies.
The new model offers Bluetooth technology and MP3 playback as standard and top-of-the-range versions include a five-inch colour touchscreen, reversing camera, built-in navigation and DAB digital radio.
Market-specific details and pricing for the Irish FIAT Ducato range will be announced shortly.
