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F
iat Professional has launched its new-generation Ducato
in Australia, bringing the large van and cab chassis range
up to date with a comprehensive overhaul headlined by a
new powertrain and a raft of advanced technology.
A 3.0L ‘180 Multijet’ turbo-diesel engine is fitted across
the range, producing 130kW of power at 3,500rpm and
400Nm of torque at 1,400rpm – enough for the Italian brand
to boast that Ducato is the now most powerful front-wheel-
drive van in its segment.
The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual gearbox
or a six-speed Comfort-matic robotised clutch-less manual
and returns fuel consumption as low as 7.2L/100km (cab
chassis) on the official combined cycle.
As well as improved efficiency and lower running costs, Fiat
says robustness and reliability, and high-tech features, were
development priorities for the new Ducato.
Body and chassis reinforcements have been made, weight-
saving measures employed (including composite materials in
the rear suspension), braking hardware upgraded to match
the improved performance, and a three-part front bumper
introduced to keep repair costs down.
Among the electronic safety features onboard are traction
and stability control, rollover mitigation, load and centre of
gravity detection, a hill-holder and emergency brake assist. A
reversing camera (vans only), hill-descent control and lane-
departure warning with high-beam recognition are also now
optionally available.
A highlight of the fully refitted three-seater cabin is a new
5" colour touch-screen infotainment system with steering
wheel controls. Other notable inclusions are newly developed
seats, bulkhead with viewing window, air conditioning, cruise
control, twin airbags, power windows/mirrors, Bluetooth
connectivity and rear parking sensors.
In terms of suitability for various trades, Fiat has plenty
of bases covered with the Ducato van range offering three
wheelbase lengths (short/3,000mm, medium/3,450mm and
long/4,035mm), four overall lengths (4,963mm, 5,413mm,
5,998mm and 6,363mm) and two roof heights (low/medium).
This provides for several different cargo load capacities,
from 8m³ through to 15 m³. Payload ranges from 1,560kg to
2,110kg, with GVM between 3,510kg and 4,005kg.
Priced from $44,000 plus on-road costs, the cab chassis has
a 3,800mm wheelbase and 4,005kg GVM.
Van pricing starts from $38,000 for the SWB low-roof, rising to
$40,000 for the MWB low-roof and to $44,000 for the MWB mid-
roof. The Comfort-matic gearbox is fitted standard to the LWB
mid-roof (from $48,000) and the extra-long van (from $52,000).
Fiat
www.fiat.com.auFIAT DUCATO