SOMETIMES a vehicle appears just right at first glance and this is certainly true of the FIAT Doblo Maxi Cargo 1.6 MultiJet SX.

The Doblo from FIAT Professional - the new-look arm of this Italian manufacturer's light commercial activities - just can't stop winning awards.

The Doblo Cargo range was named Light Van of the Year in 2016 and the long-wheelbase Maxi version takes the concept of commercial heaven a little further with a 1,005kg payload.

In addition to excellent dynamics it is remarkably comfortable due to a bi-link suspension system that really does make you believe you are driving a sophisticated car rather than a van.

Produced in Turkey, the Doblo Cargo, in its latest form has really made heads turn in the LCV arena, demonstrating to other - especially Frenc - manufacturers that they certainly have not got it all their own way.

On the road the Maxi Cargo is a professional all the way, with a sensible, yet well-equipped cockpit, a ride quality that punches well above its weight and surprisingly good performance.

With a 111mph top speed, it is no sluggard and a combined fuel consumption readout of 54.3mph ticks the economy box.

The Maxi features 35cm extra length which means it boasts capacious interior space and load volume - 5.0 cubic metres - which is more than some competitors.

But the real trick of making a good van is not just about practicality and comfort it is about being nimble around town and this quality is one of the strengths of the Doblo Maxi Cargo 1.6.

Power delivery is spot on with 320Nm of maximum torque kicks in at 1,7500rpm - it feels just right, particularly around town.

Door mirrors are just right for the vehicle and there are plenty of storage areas including an overhead space.

There is also a storage tray under the front passenger seat.

The six-speed manual gearbox is nicely spaced and smooth to use when getting the best out of this van's generous power output.

Standard is power steering, handy side-sliding cargo doors, bulkhead soundproofing, remote central locking, ABS electric windows and much more.

There is also a raft of options available including a glazed tailgate, air conditioning and even a leather steering wheel.