Within the Stellantis Group, after Peugeot, Citroën and Opel, Fiat is now coming with an identical, electric high-roof station wagon. Nothing better could have happened to the E-Doblò. A practical and versatile car for everyday use. However, the range is probably a bit too short for family trips.
Minivans, MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) or high-roof station wagons, whatever the name of the small panel van, they are particularly popular with young families, but also with couples with a lot of leisure activities. You won’t find a more versatile and practical car in the compact segment.
Fiat has been in business for a long time with the Doblò. So far, however, there has been either a diesel or petrol engine under the hood. With the new, now fifth generation of the Doblò, the Italians drew a line – at least as far as the passenger car variant is concerned. The angular colleague is only available electrically, as the E-Doblò. Fiat only leaves the combustion engine option for the commercial van versions. Probably one last time. From 2024, Fiat wants to offer all new models in Europe with an electric drive. In 2027, the entire range should then be electric.
The new E-Doblò shares the platform with its Stellantis siblings from Citroën, Peugeot and Opel. Each brand puts a slightly modified body on the chassis with individual design details. Technically there are no differences. The E-Doblò is powered by the same 100 kW/136 hp electric motor. Its 260 Newton meters of torque are electrotypically available from a standing start. This makes the E-Doblò a journeyman that can be driven with confidence, far better than any combustion engine has been able to do up until now. In addition to almost silent gliding, there is suspension comfort that is exceptionally good for this class. This Fiat model has never been more pleasant to drive.
Whether a high-roof station wagon with a focus on families or leisure activities absolutely needs a drive mode switch for the Eco, Normal and Sport settings remains to be seen. But the feature is part of the Stellantis kit, it was available almost free of charge. The Eco mode extends the range somewhat by reducing engine power, but you can clearly feel the weaker acceleration. Of course, the most driving pleasure comes with the Sport position. Only here are the full 100 kW/136 hp available.
In the floor of the E-Doblò – compared to the Transporter version, it is only available with one wheelbase – is a battery with a capacity of 50 kWh. That should be enough for 282 kilometers in one go. Fiat says it would be the longest range in the segment. Experience has shown that this WLTP value means a good 200 kilometers in everyday life, which can make longer trips with the family a patient affair. Because direct current with a maximum of only 100 kW flows into the battery at fast charging stations. After all, 80 percent of the capacity should be available again in 30 minutes.
Cars like the Doblò, whether electrically or conventionally powered, originally come from the commercial vehicle division. Emotional design plays a subordinate role here. And so, of course, drivers of these high-roof station wagons do not enjoy the cool appearance that many an SUV would be able to offer. But the Doblò is extremely practical and versatile. The sliding doors at the rear on both sides make it easier to get in and out and to install a child seat.
A generous 775 liters of luggage space is available behind the rear seat backrests – and this is calculated up to the height of the parcel shelf. A sensational value for a 4.40 meter car. It gets even better when the three rear seats are flat. The E-Doblò could now, if necessary, play the role of relocation helper, its cargo space can hold up to three cubic meters. Small drawback: The tailgate only opens up to almost 1.80 meters clear height. Larger adults run the risk of banging their foreheads – ouch – against the lock.
The E-Doblò can be ordered now. Initially, however, it was only available in the so-called “Launch Pack” configuration. Included is, among other things, a fairly extensive safety package, which includes Lane Keeping Assist, reversing camera, traffic sign recognition, collision warning and automatic light control. The price starts at 41,500 euros. Since it will hardly be possible to have the E-Doblò registered in front of the door this year, you should, as a precaution, familiarize yourself with the lower funding amount (valid from January 1, 2023). Instead of the previous 9570 euros gross, it is then 7177.50 euros.
Technical specifications
