FIAT'S new 815kg payload panel van - the Scudo - goes on sale in the UK from September in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged diesel guise.

The entry level Scudo EL 1.9 is priced at £11,040 (ex VAT) and features a 69bhp engine with a top speed of 85mph. The turbocharged Scudo EL is priced at £12,040 (ex VAT) and develops 92bhp at 4,000 giving a top speed of 97mph.

Based on the Ulysse MPV, the Scudo offers car-like qualities with van practicality. Standard features include power steering, height adjustable driving seat with armrest, head restraints, seatbelt pretensioners, and engine immobiliser while options include electric windows, central locking, unglazed rear doors, driver's airbag, dual passenger seat and - on the turbodiesel model - ABS brakes.

Aperture dimensions at the rear are 1,360mm wide at floor level and 1,265mm at midline, the loading height being 585mm. The vertical rear doors open to 90 to 180 degrees and come with windows, though solid doors are available at extra cost.