Fiat Fullback test drive: make sure to check these features out.

The Fiat Fullback has been fighting an uphill battle with many pick-ups on offer from a variety of manufacturers. While this is the first pick-up to be offered by the Italian manufacturer, the Fullback is built on the Mitsubishi Triton platform. The Triton is also a newcomer, but the brand is a veteran in this segment. Upon closer inspection, one will notice that it is not only underpinnings shared by the two models but also body panels and interior trim.

 

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When considering a pick-up one should ask yourself what the main purpose of the vehicle is going to be. If you are looking for a premium interior with a host of driver assistance systems the Fullback might not be for you, however, if a dual-purpose vehicle is more in line with your needs, the Fullback will return a comfortable ride with a stylish exterior but retain its utilitarian capabilities.

 

Styling

All to often you will find the styling on more affordable pick-ups to be dull or outdated and this is where the Fullback shines out. The Fiat shares styling cues of the model on which it is based, at least for the most part, however, upfront and at the rear of the vehicle the Fullback offer unique designs. 

With a completely revised bumper, grille and headlamps as well as updates on the rear, the Fiat Fullback distinguishes itself from the Triton and sets itself apart from the rest of the segment. The interior follows a similar theme with most of the components being shared with the Mitsubishi but with subtle changes applied.

 

Powertrains

The Fiat Fullback offers a variety of powertrains throughout its more utilitarian single-cab range as well as the more plush double-cab variants. The entry-level two-wheel driven double cab derivative sees a 2.5-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder diesel motor fitted and is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. This model is capable of producing 100 kW and 324 Nm of torque. 

The mid-range 4x4 variant offers the same engine and transmission combination but produce 131 kW and 400 Nm of torque. The flagship model, however, features a 2.4-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder diesel motor coupled to a 5-speed automatic transmission and outperforms the rest with 133 kW and 430 Nm of torque. 

 

Warranty

While some customers have their doubts about the Fullback, Fiat backs its pick-up with a comprehensive warranty and service plan. The Fiat Fullback range comes standard with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km service plan. What is great about the included warranty is that it is linked to the vehicle and not the owner, which means it is transferrable if you opted for a used model. 

 

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