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The effect of a negative reputation can far outlast its justification. Take Fiat, for instance. The reality of unreliable, underdeveloped vehicles has long been banished, but the company's standing could still do with a boost as far as the UK market goes. And with just 3.9% of the market, there is plenty of scope to improve.

But the signs are that Fiat has the clout to gain  an advantage. Last year the Doblo Cargo won the European Van of the Year award, and next year a new Scudo hits the streets. However it's this year that the most important light CV in the range is updated: the Ducato. Developed jointly with PSA Peugeot Citron (which will be releasing their own versions, badged Boxer and Relay respectively), it takes on a market that has seen new vehicles launched by Mercedes, Volkswagen, Ford and Iveco within the past year - quite a challenge.

The range itself receives a size increase to improve load area and payload. GVW starts at three tonnes with a payload of one tonne, but the top dog now weighs in with a GVW of four tonnes and a payload of up to two tonnes. The loading level has been lowered to 530mm, while the width between wheelarches is now class-leading. Furthermore there are numerous tweaks to the suspension, interior and styling, along with improved levels of standard equipment.

Bags of power from Multijet

Power comes  from Fiat's acclaimed Multijet engine range, with 2.2-litre (100hp), 2.3-litre (120hp) and 3.0-litre (157hp) versions available; the last two receiving a six-speed box. Inside, the new dash layout frees up plenty of storage; including door bins, there are nine compartments in all, with the central drawer housing the 'Blue and Me' USB port. Developed with Microsoft, it enables the connection of smart phones, MP3 players and flash drives. Integrated Bluetooth technology with voice recognition lets you make or receive calls even if the phone is in your pocket.

Ergonomics are good and the standard of fit and finish is raised to a previously unseen level, but the plastics look a bit industrial and lack the class of the Ducato's German rivals.

Once on the move, you are immediately struck by the engine's ability in terms of power delivery and refinement - this goes for both the 2.3 and the 3.0-litre. From low down it delivers seamless torque while remaining very much in the background thanks to silky-smooth operation. Steering is sharp and direct, if a touch light at low speeds. The suspension set-up keeps the vehicle well planted, while the damping avoids the crashing sensation that can blight large vans when encountering potholes and the like.