The Fiat Fullback Extended Cab 2.4 (181 Hp) 4WD is a mid-size pickup truck produced by Fiat between 2016 and 2017. It represents Fiat’s entry into the one-tonne pickup segment, largely aimed at markets outside of North America where such vehicles are commonly used for both commercial and personal purposes. The Fullback is essentially a rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Triton, a result of an OEM agreement between the two manufacturers. The “Extended Cab” configuration features a smaller second row of seats, offering a compromise between passenger capacity and cargo bed length. This variant, equipped with the 2.4-liter diesel engine and four-wheel drive, occupied a mid-range position within the Fullback lineup, offering a balance of capability and affordability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Fullback |
| Generation | Fullback Extended 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 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| 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 | 10.1 kg/Hp, 99.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 235.6 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 | 1825 kg (4023.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2850 kg (6283.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1025 kg (2259.74 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3000 kg (6613.87 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5275 mm (207.68 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 (Back) track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Front overhang | 865 mm (34.06 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1410 mm (55.51 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 205 mm (8.07 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30° |
| Departure angle | 22° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) 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 Extended Cab 2.4 4WD is powered by the Mitsubishi 4N15 2.4-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. 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. This torque output is particularly important for a pickup truck, providing strong pulling power and load-carrying capability. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its durability and driver control. While an automatic transmission was offered on some Fullback variants, it was not available with this specific engine and drivetrain combination.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4-liter diesel engine, paired with the six-speed manual transmission, provides adequate performance for typical pickup truck duties. Acceleration is not particularly brisk, but the engine delivers strong low-end torque, making it well-suited for hauling and towing. The manual transmission allows for precise control over gear selection, which is beneficial when navigating challenging terrain or carrying heavy loads. Compared to higher-output versions of the Fullback (which were not widely available in all markets), this 181 hp variant offers a more economical driving experience. The gear ratios are tuned for practicality rather than outright speed, prioritizing fuel efficiency and towing capacity. The four-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction on slippery surfaces, making it suitable for off-road use, although it’s not a dedicated off-road vehicle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Extended Cab configuration of the Fullback typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety equipment included ABS brakes and driver/passenger airbags. The interior trim was functional and durable, with hard-wearing plastics and cloth upholstery. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a reversing camera. The Extended Cab offered a limited amount of space for rear passengers, making it more suitable for occasional use rather than regular transport. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics.
Chassis & Braking
The Fullback utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs leaf springs, a traditional setup for pickup trucks designed to handle heavy loads. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums. This combination was a cost-effective solution for a vehicle targeted at the value-conscious segment. The four-wheel-drive system allows the driver to select between two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive high, and four-wheel drive low, providing versatility for different driving conditions. The vehicle’s ride height of 205mm (8.07 inches) provides adequate ground clearance for moderate off-road use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Fullback was generally well-received as a capable and affordable pickup truck. Critics praised its robust construction and strong diesel engine, but noted that it lacked some of the refinement and features found in more expensive competitors. Compared to other trims in the Fullback lineup, the 2.4-liter 4WD Extended Cab offered a good balance of performance and fuel economy. Its fuel consumption of 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) was competitive for a vehicle of its size and type. However, some reviewers found the interior to be somewhat basic and the ride quality to be firm. The Fullback’s main competitors included the Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara, and Ford Ranger.
Legacy
The Fiat Fullback was discontinued after a relatively short production run. While it didn’t achieve widespread popularity, it provided Fiat with a foothold in the competitive pickup truck market. The 4N15 diesel engine has proven to be a reliable and durable unit, and examples of the Fullback are still in use today. In the used car market, the Fullback Extended Cab 2.4 4WD represents a relatively affordable option for those seeking a capable and practical pickup truck. Its simple mechanical design and robust construction make it a potentially good choice for those who prioritize reliability and durability over luxury and refinement. Parts availability may become a concern as the vehicle ages, given its limited production run and reliance on Mitsubishi components.
