The Fiat Scudo belongs to a niche of vans that are designed to be compact and diminutive with load space that are smaller than vans manufactured by other automobile brands. Its slanted front gives the vehicle a stylistic look when one views the anterior end of the refrigerated van. Sharing the same platform with equivalent refrigerated vans manufactured by Citroen and Peugeot, it has a cargo area that is ideal for the incorporation of a customized refrigerating system. A very aesthetically sleek vehicle, it doesn’t have the appearance of a haulage or industrial fridge van, but it is surprisingly rugged and efficient.
Load Space
The Fiat Scudo has three variants based on the vehicle’s body size with each variant having peculiar cargo spaces for the storage of items and the embedding of a refrigerator. Compared to the other refrigerator vans in the market, the Fiat Scudo probably has one of the smallest load space capacities. Its L1H1 variant possesses a load space capacity of 176.6 cubic feet, while the L2H1 has a capacity that reaches 211.9 cubic feet. The third variant (L2H2), which is the largest model available, has a cargo area capacity of 247.2 cubic feet. The payload of the Scudo is also quite modest when compared to other popular refrigerator vans in the market, with its value ranging from 2,196lbs to 2,672lbs.
Engine
Each variant of the Fiat Scudo has a peculiar engine system with output that has also been modified to suit the model’s need. The L1H1 model of the Fiat is fitted with a 1.6-litre diesel engine, while the L2 model has the 2.0-litre diesel engine incorporated within its system. There, however, is a slight modification in the output offered to the L2 variant as only the high-roof L2H2 model is offered the 130hp output option. It is noteworthy that despite being made from the same platform as the Citroen and Peugeot vans, it has a fuel consumption rate and a CO2 emission rate that is slightly higher than those two. This is mostly peculiar to the 1.6-litre diesel engine models though, as some models with the 128bhp engine have lower values for fuel consumption and CO2 emission.
Cabin
The Scudo’s double passenger seat allows for the accommodation of three passengers in the cabin. The positioning of the gear that is a norm in older models repeats itself once again in the latest release. The storage space in the cabin is also quite impressive with the presence of door pockets and a large glove box. A deep storage bin can also be located on the dashboard that is at the passenger side. Despite its relatively diminutive size, the interior of the Fiat Scudo is truly impressive with many features that include front seats – cup holders, AUX/USB input socket, mobile phone connectivity, MP3 compatible compact disc player.
Safety
All models except the ones with the 163bhp engines are not offered the electronic stability control system (ESC). There are, however, other safety mechanisms that ensure that the Fiat Scudo is truly safe for its occupants. These mechanisms include power mirrors, airbags, and central locking remote control.
Driving
The Fiat Scudo, most especially the models with the 1.6-litre engine, is suited for plying town roads and conveying light load. One must, therefore, ensure that the size of the refrigerator incorporated into the vehicle is not too bulky. The models with the 2.0-litre engine have better functionality though and are able to withstand long periods of continuous motion. Just like the Peugeot van, the steering wheel’s height can also be adjusted to facilitate safe and comfortable driving.
