INITIAL press pictures of the new Fiat Doblo Cargo painted a bizarre picture. But viewed for the first time in the metal at the Brussels International Commercial and Recreational Vehicle Show, the van looked a much more acceptable proposition to potential UK buyers.

Set for launch in February, the new model will be available either as a mini MPV or van. Fiat described it as: 'Unique in its type, a companion for both adventure and work, informal, simple, non-conformist and capable of adapting to all requirements.'

The Cargo version offers a load volume of 3.2 cubic metres (or 3.8 on the raised roof version), load variants of either 625kg or 805kg, load length of 1.68 metres, extending to 2.28 metres with the front passenger seat folded down, asymmetrical opening rear doors and a sliding door on both sides. In a bid to fulfil its claims, the Doblo is available in 26 different body configurations, with SX and ELX trim for the car and base and SX for the van.

There are four engine options: 1.2 eight valve petrol giving 65bhp, 1.9 diesel offering 63bhp, 1.6-litre petrol (103bhp) and 1.9 JTD turbodiesel (100bhp). At first glance on the stand, the Doblo Cargo seems to fit in between the Citroen Berlingo and Renault Kangoo and is certainly nowhere near as outlandish as its first pictures suggested.

A chunky dash gives a solid feel to the new van and the gearshift is dash-mounted as per the fashion at present. The driver's seat features an armrest. Prices for the Doblo Cargo have yet to be announced but a spokesman promised they would be 'competitive with its rivals the Citroen Berlingo and Renault Kangoo'.