Fiat is expanding its presence in the Australian commercial vehicle market with the 2026 Scudo, a mid-size van designed to compete directly with industry leader Toyota HiAce, as well as Hyundai Staria Load and Ford Transit Custom. The Scudo represents Fiat’s renewed focus on vans, a segment where it now outsells its popular 500 city car by a significant margin.
Rebadged Peugeot, Proven Platform
The “new” Scudo is essentially a rebadged version of the Peugeot Expert, built on Stellantis’ well-established third-generation platform. This van architecture has been in use since 2016 and is shared across multiple brands, including Citroen, Opel, Vauxhall, and even Toyota in some international markets. This move allows Fiat to enter the mid-size van segment quickly and cost-effectively.
Pricing and Variants
The 2026 Fiat Scudo arrives in Australian showrooms in February with a starting price of $48,490 (before on-road costs). It will be available in two trim levels – SWB (short wheelbase) and LWB (long wheelbase) – both sharing the same 3275mm wheelbase. The LWB variant, at 5333mm, offers additional cargo space thanks to a longer rear overhang.
Buyers can choose between standard glazed rear doors that open 270 degrees or a glazed liftgate for an extra $700.
Drivetrain and Efficiency
The Scudo will launch with a single powertrain option in Australia. Details about specific engine performance are not yet fully available, but the platform is known for its fuel efficiency and reliability.
Standard Features and Trim Levels
The base Scudo model comes well-equipped, including dual sliding doors, a glazed bulkhead, load compartment protection, standard halogen headlights, and a 10-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as are key safety features like autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a reversing camera.
The Primo trim adds enhanced features such as proximity entry, LED headlights, a wireless phone charger, dual-zone climate control, and a unique “Mobile Office” adjustable workstation in the cargo area.
Safety and Warranty
The Fiat Scudo has not yet been crash-tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP. However, Fiat provides a five-year, 200,000km warranty with five years of roadside assistance. Service intervals are scheduled every 12 months or 20,000km, though pricing details are still pending.
Market Context
Fiat’s decision to re-enter the mid-size van segment is strategic. The brand’s sales in Australia are now heavily reliant on its Ducato van, with 1541 units sold last year compared to just 411 of the 500 city car. The Scudo fills a critical gap in Fiat’s lineup, offering a more versatile and accessible option for businesses and tradespeople.
The Scudo’s return is a continuation of the industry trend of manufacturers leveraging shared platforms and rebadging existing models to enter new segments efficiently. This allows companies to minimize development costs while still offering a competitive product.
The 2026 Fiat Scudo offers a familiar yet competitive choice for Australian buyers, leveraging a proven platform and a well-equipped package to take on the dominant Toyota HiAce.
