Fiat e-Doblo (K9)

Italy's answer to the Renault Kangoo, the Fiat Doblo, gained a full model change with the arrival of the first-ever e-Doblo electric MPV.

2023 Fiat e-Doblo interior

2023 Fiat e-Doblo

For the first time in Doblo history, an electrified version was offered and that said, this would be the only powertrain offered in the passenger-oriented version of the all-new Fiat Doblo. Of course, you can have petrol or diesel variants but that's reserved for commercial use. The main focus is the passenger version of the all-new Doblo and this Italian alternative to the Renault Kangoo has turned with numerous features to cater to today's Italian families.

Beginning with the exterior design, the Doblo's front face features a grilleless design for a cleaner look compared to its predecessor and having a car with no grille is a good thing because grilles are so overrated. The side view can be easily mistaken for a Berlingo and as for the rear, looks okay so far. Overall, the exterior design is clean and subtle, just the way it is.

Step inside, the new Doblo is all business and no rocket science needed to understand how it works. On the driver's side, you have all the bare neccessities you'll need such as the 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, climate control, digital instrumental panel, HUD, and others. In terms of passenger space, it's slightly cramped compared to the previous Doblo, probably because of its electric powertrain.

Speaking of electric powertrain, the Launch Pack that costs 40 grand minus the incentives runs on a 50kWh battery pack and an electric motor. It generates 136PS of power, 260Nm of torque, 0-100kph in 11.2 seconds, 130kph top speed, and up to 282km of combined driving range in one full charge. Sounds modest, though, and when you take it for a spin, the e-Doblo behaves like a regular MPV. Safe as well thanks to its SAFETY PLUS Pack which comes with AEB, Lane Keeping, forward collision, and speed sign recognition.

With spacing the main weak point of the new e-Doblo, the clean design and so-called value for money really means business for the new model. Although it's hard to keep up against the Renault Kangoo, the new Fiat Doblo is all about getting ready for everything life throws at it.

Photo: Fiat