Just thought that I would let you all know that I eventually overcame my prejudice against FIAT and bought a 1.3 Multijet Doblo. I have now covered 17000 miles in less than a year and think it is excellent value for money and extremely practical. I get just under 50 mpg with hardly any oil consumption and so far the only problems have been a noisy suspension bush and a creaky door hinge both fixed under warranty. It was a bit awkward when I was given a Cinquento as a courtesy car as being just over six foot tall it felt very cramped compared to a Doblo. I think I would find it strange going back to a "normal" car now as I feel as if I am sitting on the floor! Overall, I am pleased with the car, the dealer has been excellent and consider myself a Doblo convert. If the next 75000 miles are reasonably trouble free then I will probably buy another one.


All the Best

David

I agree with your feelings on the Doblo.
Mine's done 14k miles since March '05, a 1.9jtd Active. There's been one single problem, the rear washer seems constantly blocked, the mechanic agreed that it was down to the poor design of the rubber gaiter between the body and the rear hatch door pinching the pipe. Every thing else is just peachy, great mileage, totally practical and so much space.

My father's just bought a new Ford Focus estate - I know that they're highly thought of but you sit down into the car, laugh at/curse the 'normal' mirrors when you need to reverse park and ESTATE? well its comparable to my Doblo when you fold the seats perhaps...

The build quality is better than my previous three FIATs, a Cinqucento (Polish built), two Puntos (Italian built). Does anyone else think that being built in Turkey has actually helped 'cos the have something to prove? The hope of a good job well done results in more investment/jobs/models in the future might make a difference (compared to 'Luigi' in Torino who's father and grandfather worked at FIAT and the Italian government will never let bad things happen)?

Alex
Spirito di Doblo (24% A.B.V.)