What are the safety features on the Fiat Fullback double cabs?
The Fiat Fullback is a bakkie that will certainly set you apart from the Hilux and Ranger clans. With plenty of the Mitsubishi Triton's mechanical bits underneath the bonnet, the value-packed Fullback should make a reliable and stylish work- or leisure horse. Let's see how safe it is.
The Fiat Fullback may not be the first bakkie that crosses your mind when you hear the words "double cab", but it offers great value, plenty of features, and looks different in a good way — not everyone wants a mundane-looking workhorse that disappears in a sea of Ranger and isuzu bakkies in the parking lot. But how safe is it?
There are three double cabs in the local Fiat Fullback line-up:
Fiat Fullback 2.5Di-D double cab SX : R500 245
Fiat Fullback 2.5Di-D double cab 4x4 SX : R529 257
Fiat Fullback 2.4Di-D LX double cab 4x4 SX Auto: R644 868
Is the Fullback just a repackaged Triton?
No, not exactly, but it's not a Fiat through-and-through either: The 2.5-litre turbo-diesel Fullbacks make use of the previous-generation Mitsubishi Triton's 2.5-litre power plant, while the higher-output 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine in the flagship automatic model is the same all-aluminium, lightweight unit that can be found in the current-generation Mitsubishi Triton. And apart from the excellent Super Select II four-wheel-drive system found in both brands (in the Fiat it's known as Easy Select 4WD), these two bakkies don't share many other mechanical similarities.
Related: Mitsubishi Trition vs. Fiat Fullback — Battle of the bakkie brethren
Safety features
Safety wise, the Fullback is quite well-equipped with ABS, EBD, and brake assist. Reinforced side-impact protection beams and plenty of high-tensile steel should keep the cabin intact in case of a serious accident. The flagship LX model as well as the other double cabs are equipped with two airbags each - a little disappointing, seeing that its Mitsubishi counterpart (the flagship model) has seven. The LX variant is also equipped with hill-start assist and stability control, as well as Xenon headlamps and trailer stability assist for safer towing.
The driver-orientated cabin also has many mod-cons to help keep occupants safe. Satellite buttons on the steering wheel (all double cabs) will assist the driver's eyes in staying on the road ahead instead of on the touchscreen. All Fullback double cabs have a rearview camera displayed in the central touchscreen, but there are no parking sensors present. There are Isofix child seat fittings on the outer rear seats. Cruise control, Bluetooth, USB ports, child locks and remote central locking are standard.
All in all, the Fullback feels good to drive, has many standard convenience features (like leather seats on all double cab offerings) and is more affordable than its Japanese and American counterparts. There are some excellent used models available at very competitive pricies, as South Africans are a bit unsure about a long-term commitment with a bakkie that carries an Italian label. The three-year/100 000 km warranty and five-year/100 000 km service plan should help set prospective buyers' minds at ease.
Related: Knight Rider's back, but as a bakkie! (Isuzu D-Max 250 X-Rider Black review)
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