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Fiat Ducato vs VW Transporter Transporter – Which one offers the better deal?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Fiat Ducato or VW Transporter Transporter?

The Battle of the Cargo Vans: Fiat Ducato vs. VW Transporter

In the space of cargo vans, two prominent figures often capture attention - the Fiat Ducato and the VW Transporter. Both are stalwarts in the field, providing reliability and performance to businesses across the globe. This comparison delves into their technical aspects and the innovative features that make them stand out.

Power and Performance

The Fiat Ducato comes equipped with a robust selection of diesel and electric engines, offering horsepower ranging from 120 to 270 HP. Its torque varies between 320 to 450 Nm, making it a workhorse for heavy-duty applications. In contrast, the VW Transporter offers diesel, plug-in hybrid, and electric engine choices, providing power from 110 to 286 HP with torque options between 310 to 415 Nm. The Transporter also provides a wider range of drivetrain options, including front-wheel, all-wheel, and rear-wheel drive, compared to the Ducato’s front-wheel drive only.

Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fiat Ducato's diesel engines present an average fuel consumption ranging from 7.2 to 9.3 liters per 100 km, while the electric variant has an impressive range of 430 km. The Ducato also offers a zero-emission version, boosting its environmental credentials. VW Transporter’s diesel variants are similarly efficient, consuming between 7.1 and 8.4 liters per 100 km, and its electric range reaches up to 330 km. The Transporter too features a plug-in hybrid option, bridging the gap between fossil fuel and electric propulsion.

Size and Capacity

In terms of size, the Fiat Ducato ranges from 5,413 mm to 6,678 mm in length, accommodating a payload capacity varying from 635 kg to 2,020 kg. Its height can extend up to 2,764 mm, providing a spacious interior for cargo. Conversely, the VW Transporter is shorter, measuring between 5,050 mm and 5,450 mm in length, with payload capacities spanning 755 kg to 1,259 kg. Its compact size may offer more maneuverability, balancing capacity and urban practicality.

Technological Innovations and Safety

Both models integrate cutting-edge technology to enhance safety and driver assistance. The Fiat Ducato includes advanced driver-assistance systems like traffic sign recognition and lane keep assist. VW Transporter keeps pace with a sophisticated infotainment setup and its own suite of safety features, ensuring both models cater to modern demands for digital connectivity and protection.

Conclusion

Fiat Ducato and VW Transporter each hold significant strengths. The Ducato's broad power range, extensive payload capacity, and zero-emission versions make it a solid choice for those with heavy-duty needs or environmental concerns. The Transporter stands out with its drivetrain diversity and technological glow, appealing to those requiring flexibility and high-tech features. The ideal choice depends on specific use-cases and preferences, with both vehicles representing the pinnacle of cargo van engineering.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Fiat Ducato has a slight advantage in terms of price – it starts at 34300 £, while the VW Transporter Transporter costs 37500 £. That’s a price difference of around 3192 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Transporter Transporter manages with 7.10 L and is therefore slight more efficient than the Fiat Ducato with 7.50 L. The difference is about 0.40 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Fiat Ducato performs distinct better – achieving up to 430 km, about 99 km more than the VW Transporter Transporter.

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the VW Transporter Transporter has a slight edge – offering 286 HP compared to 270 HP. That’s roughly 16 HP more horsepower.

In terms of top speed, the Fiat Ducato performs slight better – reaching 165 km/h, while the VW Transporter Transporter tops out at 150 km/h. The difference is around 15 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Fiat Ducato pulls hardly perceptible stronger with 450 Nm compared to 415 Nm. That’s about 35 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: VW Transporter Transporter offers distinct more seating capacity – 5 vs 3.

In curb weight, VW Transporter Transporter is to a small extent lighter – 1872 kg compared to 2125 kg. The difference is around 253 kg.

When it comes to payload, Fiat Ducato clearly perceptible takes the win – 2020 kg compared to 1259 kg. That’s a difference of about 761 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Fiat Ducato shows itself to be secures victory with a clear margin and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £34,300
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Fiat Ducato

  • Engine Type : Diesel, Electric
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 120 - 270 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 7.5 - 9 L
  • Electric Range : 430 km

Fiat Ducato

The Fiat Ducato is a versatile vehicle that has remained popular among business owners and adventurers alike. With its spacious interior and practical design, it is ideal for transporting goods or converting into a camper van for travel enthusiasts. Its robust performance and reliability have solidified its reputation as a staple in the commercial van market.

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VW Transporter Transporter

The VW Transporter, a versatile favourite among commercial vehicles, combines practicality with modern design. Its spacious interior offers ample room for both passengers and cargo, making it a reliable choice for businesses and families alike. The vehicle's strong build and advanced technology ensure a smooth and efficient driving experience in various conditions.

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Fiat Ducato
VW Transporter Transporter

Costs and Consumption

Price
34300 - 57800 £
Price
37500 - 60800 £
Consumption L/100km
7.5 - 9 L
Consumption L/100km
7.1 - 8.4 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
21.9 - 24.4 kWh
Electric Range
430 km
Electric Range
56 - 331 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
11.8 - 63.8 kWh
co2
0 - 233 g/km
co2
0 - 220 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
90 L
Fuel tank capacity
55 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Cargo Van
Body Type
Cargo Van
Seats
3
Seats
2 - 5
Doors
4
Doors
4 - 5
Curb weight
2125 - 2940 kg
Curb weight
1872 - 2462 kg
Trunk capacity
-
Trunk capacity
-
Length
5413 - 6678 mm
Length
5050 - 5450 mm
Width
2050 - 2100 mm
Width
2032 mm
Height
2254 - 2774 mm
Height
1966 - 1985 mm
Max trunk capacity
10000 - 17000 L
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
560 - 2020 kg
Payload
755 - 1259 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Diesel, Electric
Engine Type
Diesel, Plugin Hybrid, Electric
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
Power HP
120 - 270 HP
Power HP
110 - 286 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
-
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.4 - 16.9 s
Max Speed
90 - 165 km/h
Max Speed
112 - 150 km/h
Torque
320 - 450 Nm
Torque
310 - 415 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
88 - 200 kW
Power kW
81 - 210 kW
Engine capacity
2184 cm3
Engine capacity
1996 - 2488 cm3

General

Model Year
2023 - 2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, A
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, A
Brand
Fiat
Brand
VW
What drive types are available for the Fiat Ducato?

The Fiat Ducato is available as Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.