Performance ***
Doblo buyers can choose from a 77bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine, an 85bhp 1.3 turbodiesel and a 1.9 diesel with either 105 or 120bhp. We’ve yet to try the petrol, but the 1.3 turbodiesel is a willing worker that makes the 105bhp 1.9 diesel feel almost redundant. The 120bhp 1.9 offers a sizeable step-up in performance, delivering plenty of pull.
Ride & handling ***
At moderate speeds the Doblo feels surprisingly agile and composed, but travelling on the motorway can be nerve-racking because the steering is too light and body lean is marked when changing lanes. The ride is reasonably forgiving, although very bumpy roads send shudders into the cabin.
Refinement **
The 1.3 diesel unit is impressively quiet on start-up, and retains its composure unless revved hard. The 1.9s suffer from a lot more low-speed clatter, but settle down when cruising. Road noise is kept well in check at all speeds, but the Doblo’s boxy shape kicks up plenty of wind roar on the motorway.

Buying & owning ***
Prices for the face-lifted Doblo have yet to be confirmed but are likely to be good value, and a bit of haggling at your local Fiat dealer should make it even more affordable. Both petrol and diesel versions have reasonable running costs, but the Doblo’s residual values are traditionally weak so you won’t get a huge amount back when you sell it on.
Quality & reliability ***
The Doblo is intended as a workhorse and, while the cabin plastics are hard and unappealing, they should prove durable. Similarly, the materials that line the luggage bay feel resilient to scuffs and scrapes. Mechanically, it’s unlikely to let you down, with owners reporting few faults.
Safety & security **
All models come with anti-lock brakes and twin front airbags, but you must pay extra for side airbags and traction control isn’t available. On the security front, buyers get an immobiliser, but there’s no alarm and no deadlocks.

Behind the wheel ***
The cabin is basic, but everything is clearly laid out so all major controls are easy to find and use on the move. Although most drivers will be able to get comfortable, we would like to see a better-shaped, more supportive driver’s seat. All-round visibility is good.
Space & practicality ****
The Doblo can seat five adults without trouble, or seven if you choose the Family version. The five-seater offers masses of load space with the rear bench in place, while it’s positively gargantuan with the split rear seats folded down. Dynamic models get a conventional tailgate, rather than the unevenly split vertically hinged doors of the Active model.
Equipment ****
Base Active models don’t get much luxury kit, but are reasonably equipped given their expected low price tags. Power steering, front electric windows and remote central locking are all standard. Fork out the extra for Dynamic trim and you gain desirable features such as air-conditioning, a CD player and alloy wheels. Options include sat-nav with a built-in telephone.