The Fiat Doblo has got to be one of the most practical, affordable and unpretentious vehicles on the market today. We have had our Doblo family 1.3 multijet for two months now and are very impressed. Do not listen for a second to those who call it ugly. Different and distinctive yes and certainly a breath of fresh air compared with the clone like styling of many modern vehicles.

A spacious cabin with plenty of leg, head and arm room, a chunky attractive dashboard/instrument panel, Wide comfortable front seats. Elevated driving position, drivers seat with 4 separate adjustment axes. Sliding rear doors a boon with children, individual middle seats, both end seats cleverly fold and tilt to allow quick access to the boot/rear bench seats (7-seater version). All seats with 3-point seat belts. The rear bench seats are a generous size and provide an excellent elevated ride position, although leg room is limited and only suitable for small adults or children up to around 14 years. Rear bench seat double folds to reveal a limited but useful amount of boot space, or can be removed completely revealing an enormous boot.

The 1.3L multijet diesel engine is an efficient unit, with impressive power and torque for such a small engine. Particularly good around town, adequate acceleration, although with this being a relatively heavy vehicle don't expect to be pinned to your seat. Cruises well on the motorway, although time and anticipation is needed for overtaking. Those looking for more power and acceleration should opt for the 1.9 JTD.

For those brave enough to shed their lemming instincts and to stand out from the crowd, the Doblo represents a victory for common sense and practicality over non-functional styling. Don't be deceived by the relatively low cost, this is a solid, well designed and well built vehicle.