The Fiat Scudo III Panel Van 1.5 Multijet (102 Hp) L3 represents a key offering in Fiat Professional’s light commercial vehicle lineup, introduced in December 2021 and continuing through October 2023. This variant, part of the third generation of the Scudo (introduced in 2021), is positioned as a practical and efficient solution for businesses requiring a medium-sized van with a focus on fuel economy and payload capacity. The “L3” designation indicates a long wheelbase version, maximizing cargo space. It shares its platform and many components with the Peugeot Expert and Citroën Jumpy, a result of the Stellantis group’s collaborative engineering efforts. This particular engine and configuration aimed to provide a balance between affordability and capability for commercial users.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Scudo |
| Generation | Scudo III Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 Multijet (102 Hp) L3 |
| Start of production | December, 2021 |
| End of production | October, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.2-7.3 l/100 km (37.9 – 32.2 US mpg, 45.6 – 38.7 UK mpg, 16.1 – 13.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 164-191 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 19.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 19.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 18.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 145 km/h (90.1 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.4 kg/Hp, 61.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 161.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1600 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DV5RUCD |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.75 l (6.08 US qt | 5.06 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1670 kg (3681.72 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2830 kg (6239.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1160 kg (2557.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 6100 l (215.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 6800 l (240.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 69 l (18.23 US gal | 15.18 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 22.5 l (5.94 US gal | 4.95 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 170 kg (374.79 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Length | 5309 mm (209.02 in.) |
| Width | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2010 mm (79.13 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2204 mm (86.77 in.) |
| Height | 1935 mm (76.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3275 mm (128.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1618 mm (63.7 in.) |
| Front overhang | 881 mm (34.69 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1153 mm (45.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 304×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 290×12 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16; 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Scudo III 1.5 Multijet utilizes the DV5RUCD engine, a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Fiat’s FIRE family, known for its relatively compact size and efficiency. It employs a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output, and a common-rail direct fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery. The engine produces 102 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque at 1600 rpm. The engine features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing breathing and contributing to improved performance. The 6-speed manual transmission is standard, chosen for its durability and cost-effectiveness in commercial applications. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to meet Euro 6d-ISC-FCM emission standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 102 hp 1.5 Multijet L3 offers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is understandably slow, with a 0-60 mph time around 18.6 seconds. The focus is on fuel efficiency and usability rather than outright speed. The engine’s torque peak at 1600 rpm provides reasonable pulling power for everyday driving and moderate loads. The 6-speed manual transmission allows drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to higher-output versions of the Scudo, this variant feels noticeably less responsive, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. However, the trade-off is improved fuel economy, making it a cost-effective choice for businesses prioritizing operational expenses.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Scudo III Panel Van 1.5 Multijet (102 Hp) L3 typically came with a functional, work-oriented interior. Standard equipment included a driver’s airbag, ABS brakes, a basic audio system, and manual air conditioning. The cabin generally featured durable, easy-to-clean plastics. The L3 variant’s extended wheelbase provides a substantial cargo area of 6100-6800 liters. Optional extras included a passenger airbag, rear parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and various cargo area configurations (e.g., shelving, load securing systems). Trim levels were often basic, focusing on providing essential features for commercial use.
Chassis & Braking
The Scudo III utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The rear suspension uses a trailing arm configuration, optimized for load-carrying capacity. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels (304x28mm) and solid discs on the rear wheels (290x12mm). ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The chassis is designed to handle a maximum payload of 1160 kg and a gross vehicle weight of 2830 kg.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Scudo III 1.5 Multijet (102 Hp) L3 was generally well-received as a practical and economical work van. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and spacious cargo area. However, the engine’s limited power output was a common point of criticism, particularly for those regularly carrying heavy loads or driving on hilly terrain. Compared to the more powerful 1.8L or 2.0L diesel variants, this version offered lower running costs but compromised on performance. Against competitors like the Ford Transit Custom and Volkswagen Transporter, the Scudo offered a competitive price point and a generous cargo capacity.
Legacy
The Fiat Scudo III 1.5 Multijet (102 Hp) L3 represents a solid, if unspectacular, offering in the light commercial vehicle segment. The DV5RUCD engine, while not known for its blistering performance, has proven to be relatively reliable. On the used market, these vans are often sought after by small businesses and tradespeople looking for an affordable and dependable workhorse. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good, thanks to the widespread use of this engine across the Stellantis group. Its longevity and practicality ensure it remains a viable option for those seeking a functional and economical van.
