Fiat Scudo
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a reliable medium panel van that won’t break the bank? The Fiat Scudo might be exactly what your business needs. This practical workhorse offers a solid blend of cargo space, modern features, and competitive running costs in a package that’s built for everyday commercial use. It’s the van for businesses that need dependable transport without the premium price tag.

From the outside, the latest Scudo presents a more refined appearance than its predecessor. The updated front styling and LED headlights on higher spec models give it a contemporary look that stands out from rivals like the Ford Transit Custom and Vauxhall Vivaro. Inside, you’ll find a much improved cabin that feels more car like than commercial vehicle. The dashboard is logically laid out with easy to reach controls and decent storage solutions throughout.

On the road, the Scudo delivers a composed and comfortable driving experience. The diesel engines are efficient and provide adequate power for most commercial applications. The handling is predictable and reassuring, making it easy to drive in urban environments or on longer motorway journeys. While it may not lead the class in every area, the Scudo offers genuine value for money and represents a significant step forward from earlier generations.

What's the Fiat Scudo Like to Drive?

The Fiat Scudo comes with a choice of modern diesel engines designed for efficiency and reliability. The entry level 1.5 litre MultiJet diesel produces 100 horsepower, which is adequate for light commercial duties and urban deliveries. For heavier loads or more demanding work, the 2.0 litre diesel variants offer 120 or 150 horsepower, providing stronger acceleration and better overtaking ability on dual carriageways.

Where the Scudo excels is in its everyday usability as a medium panel van. The steering is light at low speeds, making tight manoeuvres and parking straightforward. The suspension setup strikes a good balance between load carrying ability and ride comfort. Even when unladen, the Scudo doesn’t bounce or feel unsettled over bumps. The six speed manual gearbox is smooth and precise, while the available eight speed automatic transmission makes stop start driving much more relaxing.

How Comfortable Is the Fiat Scudo?

Step inside the Scudo and you’ll notice the significant improvement over the previous generation. The cabin feels more like a car interior than a basic commercial vehicle. The dashboard features a modern design with a central touchscreen that includes DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The materials used feel durable and fit for purpose, with hard wearing plastics that should withstand daily commercial use.

The driver’s seat offers good support and plenty of adjustment to help you find a comfortable driving position. Visibility is excellent thanks to the large windows and well positioned mirrors. Road and engine noise are well controlled, making longer journeys more pleasant. Storage is well thought out with door pockets, a useful overhead shelf, and various cubbyholes for keeping paperwork and small items organised. Higher specification models add features like cruise control, air conditioning, and a heated windscreen that make daily driving more comfortable.

Is the Fiat Scudo Expensive to Run?

The Scudo’s running costs are competitive within the medium van sector. Fuel economy is a strong point, with the efficient diesel engines returning real world figures in the low 40s MPG even when loaded. The smaller 1.5 litre engine is particularly frugal for lighter duties, while the 2.0 litre units still deliver reasonable economy when working harder. Insurance costs are moderate for the commercial vehicle class.

Purchase prices are competitive compared to mainstream rivals, making the Scudo an attractive proposition for budget conscious businesses. Servicing intervals are reasonable at 20,000 miles or two years for most variants, helping to keep maintenance costs under control. The comprehensive three year warranty provides peace of mind for new buyers. Van finance options are widely available, making it easier for businesses to spread the cost. Overall, the Scudo offers solid value for money in the medium van segment.

Fiat Scudo Practicality & Boot Space

The Scudo’s practicality credentials are strong across the range. Load volumes range from 5.1 cubic metres in the compact version up to 6.6 cubic metres in the long wheelbase model, providing flexibility for different business needs. The loading area features a low floor height and wide rear doors that make loading and unloading easier. Side sliding doors are standard on most variants, improving access in tight parking spaces.

Payload capacity varies from 1,000 to 1,400 kilograms depending on the variant chosen, which is competitive for the class. The loading bay is well protected with durable floor coverings and tie down points for securing cargo. For passenger carrying duties, the Scudo is available in crew van and passenger versions that can accommodate up to nine people. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for businesses that need one vehicle to handle multiple roles, comparing well with other used commercial vehicles in terms of adaptability.

The Fiat Scudo has evolved into a genuinely competitive medium van that offers good value for money. It combines practical load carrying ability with a comfortable driving experience and reasonable running costs. The updated interior and modern technology features help it feel more contemporary than previous generations, while the efficient diesel engines keep fuel bills under control.

You choose the Scudo because you want a reliable commercial vehicle that doesn’t compromise on comfort or quality. It’s well suited to urban delivery work but equally capable on longer motorway journeys. The comprehensive warranty and competitive pricing make it an attractive proposition for small business owners looking to keep costs under control while still getting a dependable workhorse.