Just over a week after going on sale in the UK, Fiat’s stylish new Fiorino van has scooped its first British award – Best New Van at the 2008 Van Fleet World Honours.

Just over a week after going on sale in the UK, Fiat’s stylish new Fiorino van has scooped its first British award – Best New Van at the 2008 Van Fleet World Honours.

The awards, announced at a ceremony in London last week, are presented annually to motor manufacturers which, in the eyes of the judging panel, achieve the highest possible level of excellence in their sector.

The judging panel is chaired by industry professional, George Emmerson, who has managed fleets at IBM, NHBC, and Black Horse Agencies. Other members of the panel include Ross Durkin, Ken Rogers and John Kendall from Fleet World’s editorial team, and fleet manager Jackie Pomfrett. Residual value, maintenance costs and reliability data are also provided by ALD Automotive, Masterlease and ING Car Lease.

John Kendall, Editor of Van Fleet World, commented: “The launch of the Fiat Fiorino opens another chapter in the light CV co-operation between Fiat and PSA that stretches back 30 years. Offering a payload of 610kg and a load volume of 2.50m3, the contenders combine a useful payload with maximum volume in a compact van a size down from established light vans.  Established engine options from Fiat and PSA should help to keep running costs low too.”

Paul Godden, Fiat Professional’s Brand Manager, said: “We are delighted the Fiorino has been recognised in this way, and so early on in its life in the UK. The van’s blend of size, versatility and good looks will make it a sure-fire winner, as today’s industry award has already shown.”

The Fiorino joins the UK line-up of Fiat Professional – the commercial vehicle arm of Fiat Group Automobiles SpA – at a time of great expansion for the brand’s LCV sales, which saw an 8.3 per cent rise from 2006 to 2007.

Manufactured at the Tofas plant in Bursa, Turkey, the Fiorino is part of a joint venture between Fiat and PSA, and is designed specifically to operate easily and efficiently in busy towns and cities. The Fiorino range starts in the UK at £7,999 for the Cargo Base 1.4 8v Petrol 75, rising to £9,647 for the Combi Standard 4 Seat 1.3 MultiJet Diesel 75.