The front-wheel drive Fiorino differs from its PSA siblings (Nemo and Bipper), however, in the engine department. It uses the same 1.3-litre JTD unit as found in the Punto and Doblò which is capable of producing 75hp. Peak torque of 190Nm occurs at 1,750rpm and the CO₂ emission level is quoted as 119g/km. Fiat Professional (its LCV brand) also offers a 1.4-litre eight-valve 73hp petrol unit, but with just 118Nm on tap it’s not really suited to load-lugging.

A manual five-speed gearbox comes as standard, but a six-speed semi-automatic Comfort Matic ’box is also available. Power steering is fitted and the brakes are ventilated discs at the front, and drums at the rear. ABS comes on all models out of the box.

Despite its compact external dimensions — 3,860mm long, 1,720mm high and 1,710mm wide — Fiorino offers 2.5m³ of load space, has a load length of 1,523mm and a maximum payload of 610kg. Twin asymmetric side-hinged rear doors provide access to the load area. SX trim adds a nearside sliding door and an offside one can be specified as an optional extra. Rear loading height is a back-saving 527mm.

The cab is surprisingly spacious, well specified and ergonomically sound with ample storage space. The gearstick is dash-mounted and the driver gets an airbag as standard, as well as a ladder bulkhead behind the seat.. Remote central locking is part of the SX trim package and the options list is extensive, to say the least.

Fiorino comes with a three-year, 100,000 mile warranty and the diesel needs servicing every 18,500 miles.

VERDICT

Fiorino is easy-as-pie to drive, rides and handles well and its load-shifting ability is greater than its dimensions suggest.