Motoring review: Stunning all new Fiat Fullback gets top marks

The new FIAT Fullback is a strong and capable one-ton double-cab pick-up that's based on the popular Mitsubishi L200. Like the L200, the Fullback boasts impressive off-road credentials, with four-wheel drive and rugged styling. It is also a heavy-duty load-lugger, with its 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine capable of towing 3.1 ton when connected to a braked trailer.   The FIAT Fullback pick up was built to become the pivot of your work on any terrain. That is also the merit of its 4x4 traction - now even more efficient and easy to control - owing to the exclusive 4WD electronic selector that allows you to distribute the maximum torque to each wheel. The Fullback's exceptional off -road capability ensures no rugged terrain can stop you from enjoying your favourite leisure activities, or achieving more from your work.   The New Fullback is precisely what you would expect from a work vehicle; agile, rugged, powerful & able to take on the toughest of tasks. In contrast, the cabin is a comfortable and welcoming place; air conditioned and soundproofed with ergonomic seating for 5. It really is the best of both worlds.   Available in entry-level SX (150bhp – manual gearbox only) or top-of-the-range LX specification (180bhp – manual or automatic options), the FIAT Fullback is available from just €25,620 + VAT.   My test vehicle this week is a new FIAT Fullback LX model in 6-speed manual guise and finished in Titanium Grey metallic. At an overall length of 5.285M and measuring 1.815M in width, this is a very imposing vehicle and, based on looks alone, my first impression was that this is certainly a strong and capable vehicle. Even the cargo bed itself is big – with a length of 1.52M, a width of 1.47M and a height of 0.85M.   Standard specification on the FIAT Fullback LX includes ABS with electronic brake-force distribution, multiple airbags, active stability control, ISOFIX child seat anchorage points x 2, remote central locking with power-folding door mirrors, keyless entry, keyless start, lane departure warning, rear privacy glass, alarm, 17” alloys, full-time 4WD system, rear bumper with step, headlamp washers, rain & dusk sensors, Bi-Xenon headlights, side steps, front fog lights, 6.1” touchscreen with Sat Nav/DAB radio/CD/MP3 & Bluetooth, leather multi-function steering wheel, leather gear lever, cruise control with variable speed limiter, dual zone climate control, heated driver & passenger seats, electric windows x 4, reverse camera, rear arm-rest with cup holder, rear head restraints and 8-way powered leather seats.   While only around 5% of light commercial vehicle sales in Ireland are pick-ups, the new luxuriously equipped Fullback double-cab pick-up from FIAT is sure to steal sales from its established rivals. Combined fuel economy of 40.9mpg, and a top speed of 178km/h are impressive figures and ensure driving pleasure and reasonable running costs. Full marks for the new Fullback from FIAT.   Fact Box  

• New Market Segment For FIAT
• Towing Capacity Up To 3.1T
• Work or Leisure Off-Roader
• Manual or Automatic
• Priced From €25,620 + VAT