The Fiat Doblo II Long (263 series, post-facelift 2015) powered by the 1.6 MultiJet engine producing 90 horsepower, coupled with the Dualogic automated manual transmission, represents an entry-level offering within the Doblo range. Introduced in January 2015 and continuing through August 2015, this variant was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and affordable multi-purpose vehicle. It occupied the lower end of the Doblo II Long lineup, positioned below higher-powered diesel options and offering a more accessible price point. The Doblo II Long itself is a stretched version of the standard Doblo II, offering increased cargo capacity and seating options, making it popular as a family vehicle or for commercial use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Doblo |
| Generation | Doblo II Long (263, facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (90 Hp) MultiJet Dualogic |
| Start of production | January, 2015 |
| End of production | August, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6-5.9 l/100 km (42 – 39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7-5.3 l/100 km (50 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.0-5.5 l/100 km (47 – 42.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 133 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 158 km/h (98.18 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 263A5000 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1525 kg (3362.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1050 l (37.08 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4000 l (141.26 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 4756 mm (187.24 in.) |
| Width | 1832 mm (72.13 in.) |
| Height | 1895/2115 mm (74.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3105 mm (122.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Rear track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 13 m (42.65 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission Dualogic |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/60 R16 C 99T |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Doblo variant is the 1.6-liter MultiJet diesel engine, identified by the code 263A5000. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, utilizing a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The engine employs a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The 16.5:1 compression ratio is typical for diesel engines, contributing to their thermal efficiency. The Dualogic transmission is an automated manual gearbox. It’s essentially a conventional manual transmission with robotic actuators controlling the clutch and gear changes. While offering some of the convenience of an automatic, it doesn’t provide the smoothness of a traditional torque converter automatic and can exhibit slightly jerky shifts, particularly at lower speeds.
Driving Characteristics
With 90 horsepower and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque, the 1.6 MultiJet Dualogic Doblo Long isn’t designed for rapid acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of around 14.6 seconds reflects this. However, the engine’s torque delivery at 1500 rpm provides adequate pulling power for everyday driving and carrying a full load. The Dualogic transmission’s gear ratios are geared towards fuel economy rather than performance. Compared to the higher-output 1.6 MultiJet or the 2.0 MultiJet versions, this variant feels noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded or climbing hills. The automatic transmission, while convenient, can sometimes hunt for gears, and the shifts aren’t as seamless as a traditional automatic. Drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of use will find this configuration suitable, while those needing more performance will likely prefer a manual transmission or a more powerful engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 MultiJet Dualogic Doblo Long typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on practicality. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, a more advanced audio system, and upgraded interior trim. The Doblo II Long was available in various trim levels, with this 90hp version often serving as the entry point, with higher trims adding more comfort and convenience features.
Chassis & Braking
The Doblo II Long utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent coil spring suspension at the rear, providing a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The chassis is designed to handle the increased weight and length of the Long wheelbase version. Stabilizer bars were typically fitted to reduce body roll during cornering. The 195/60 R16 C tires are designed for commercial use, prioritizing durability and load-carrying capacity over outright grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 MultiJet Dualogic Doblo Long was generally well-received as a practical and affordable MPV. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and spacious interior, but some noted the Dualogic transmission’s occasionally jerky shifts and the engine’s lack of outright power. Compared to the higher-powered Doblo variants, this version offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance. Against competitors like the Renault Kangoo and Citroën Berlingo, the Doblo Long offered a competitive package in terms of space, practicality, and price. Its fuel economy was comparable to other diesel-powered MPVs in its class.
Legacy
The 1.6 MultiJet engine, in various iterations, has proven to be a relatively reliable unit. The Dualogic transmission, however, can be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Regular servicing, including fluid changes, is crucial for ensuring its longevity. In the used car market, the 1.6 MultiJet Dualogic Doblo Long represents a budget-friendly option for those needing a spacious and practical vehicle. Its relatively simple mechanicals make it potentially cheaper to maintain than more complex alternatives. However, potential buyers should be aware of the Dualogic transmission’s potential weaknesses and ensure a thorough inspection before purchase.
