The Fiat Fullback Double Cab 2.4 (181 Hp) 4WD was a mid-size pickup truck produced by Fiat between 2016 and 2017. It represented Fiat’s entry into the competitive one-tonne pickup segment, primarily aimed at markets outside of North America. The Fullback was essentially a rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Triton, a result of an OEM agreement between the two manufacturers. This collaboration allowed Fiat to quickly establish a presence in the pickup market without the extensive development costs associated with creating a completely new vehicle. The Double Cab configuration offered seating for five passengers, making it a versatile option for both commercial and family use. It sat within the Fullback range as a higher-specification model, offering four-wheel drive capability and a more powerful engine than the base trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Fullback |
| Generation | Fullback Double Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 (181 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 173 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 179 km/h (111.23 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5+ |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp, 96.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 181 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 430 Nm @ 2500 rpm (317.15 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 4N15 |
| Engine displacement | 2442 cm3 (149.02 cu. in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1875 kg (4133.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2905 kg (6404.43 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1030 kg (2270.76 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3100 kg (6834.33 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5285 mm (208.07 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Height | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm (118.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Rear track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Front overhang | 865 mm (34.06 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 205 mm (8.07 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30° |
| Departure angle | 22° |
| Ramp-over angle | 24° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 245/70 R16; 245/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Fiat Fullback 2.4 4WD utilized Mitsubishi’s 4N15 2.4-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a common rail direct injection (CRDI) unit, employing a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The 4N15 engine is known for its robust construction and relatively simple design, contributing to its durability. The engine produces 181 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque at 2500 rpm. The engine featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head. The Fullback was exclusively offered with a six-speed manual transmission, providing drivers with full control over gear selection. The 4WD system offered selectable drive modes, including 2H (rear-wheel drive), 4H (four-wheel drive high range), and 4L (four-wheel drive low range), enhancing its off-road capability.
Driving Characteristics
The 181 hp engine and six-speed manual transmission provided adequate performance for typical pickup truck duties. While not exceptionally quick, the Fullback offered sufficient power for hauling loads and navigating various terrains. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power at lower engine speeds, minimizing turbo lag. The manual transmission allowed for precise gear changes, and the 4WD system provided excellent traction in challenging conditions. Compared to lower-powered versions of the Fullback, the 2.4-liter engine offered a more confident driving experience, particularly when carrying a load or towing a trailer. However, it didn’t offer the refinement or power of some of its competitors, such as the Ford Ranger or Toyota Hilux.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Double Cab 2.4 4WD trim generally included features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and a reversing camera. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with durable plastic trim throughout the cabin. Optional extras included a navigation system, leather seat covers, and a bed liner for the cargo box. The Double Cab configuration provided ample space for five passengers, making it a practical choice for families or work crews.
Chassis & Braking
The Fullback Double Cab featured a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs, a common setup for pickup trucks designed for load-carrying capacity. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The chassis was tuned to provide a balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capability. The leaf spring rear suspension, while effective for hauling, could result in a somewhat firm ride when unladen.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Fullback received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its practicality, spacious cabin, and off-road capability, it was often criticized for its relatively basic interior and lack of refinement compared to some of its competitors. Fuel economy was generally considered to be reasonable for a pickup truck of its size and weight, averaging around 35.6 US mpg. Compared to other trims in the Fullback lineup, the 2.4 4WD offered a significant performance upgrade, making it a popular choice for buyers who needed extra power and traction. However, it came at a higher price point than the base models.
Legacy
The Fiat Fullback was a relatively short-lived model, discontinued after only two years of production. Despite its brief run, it provided Fiat with a foothold in the competitive pickup truck market. The 4N15 engine, sourced from Mitsubishi, has proven to be a reliable and durable unit, and examples of the Fullback continue to be found on the used car market. While not a class leader, the Fullback Double Cab 2.4 4WD remains a practical and affordable option for buyers seeking a capable and versatile pickup truck. Its simplicity and robust construction contribute to its ongoing appeal, particularly in regions where durability and off-road capability are highly valued.
