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The new
Scudo offers a broad range of passenger transport
vehicles, for both professional and private use, with 5
to 9 seats, and a short or long wheelbase. A
comprehensive range designed to cater for demanding
customers that are highly varied in terms of their
professions and the way they use their vehicles. They
include the self-employed and private individuals who
want a vehicle for their free time, that is compact
externally, agile in traffic, easy to park and as
comfortable as a car, but with the robustness, economy
and reliability of a van.
The new Scudo Panorama takes a real leap forward in
terms of driveability and comfort to accommodate this
particular market bracket, reaching standards at the
peak of its category, in line with top-of-the-range
multi-purpose saloons.
The philosophy of the new model focuses on three very
specific values (space, people and style) that reflect
evolving demand and the purchasing criteria for this
segment.
First, roominess without compare. The new Scudo
Panorama easily seats from 5 to 9 passengers with a
luggage capacity of up to 770 litres (with the 8/9 seat
configuration), which is approximately 200 litres more
than that of most so-called large MPVs. And since the
seats on the second and third row can be folded down,
packed away and removed, the space in the Scudo Panorama
will adapt to meet the customer’s most diverse
requirements.
The second value is the ‘people’ who find that the new
Scudo Panorama improves their life on board and
therefore their daily activities. This new vehicle is
very easy to drive, even in busy city traffic, and as
comfortable as a top-of-the-range MPV.
And finally, the third value: style. Every version of
the original, elegant new Scudo Panorama is distinctive,
starting from the front, which is a perfect blend of
sturdiness and dynamism, with wrapround bumpers and
elongated headlights. The side view gives a similar
impression, with the sturdiness highlighted by the large
lateral rubbing strips and the bumpers, as well as the
fluid, flowing line. Inside, the new Scudo Panorama
guarantees all the practicality of a light commercial
vehicle set off by comfort typical of a car: for
example, the facia combines practicality with styling
resembling that of a sports car, and the passenger area
is extremely roomy, but also elegant, with quality
fabrics and furnishings.
The new Scudo passenger transport range is made up of 12
versions, created by combining two wheelbases (short and
long), three engines (90, 120 and 140 Multijet) and two
outfits: Panorama Family and Panorama Executive. The
former is for large families looking for the comfort and
style typical of an MPV, or for people who do a lot of
sport in their free time with bulky gear. The second
level, Panorama Executive, is suitable to transport
business clientele (hotel/airport shuttles and
limousines-taxis for elite tourism). Both outfits are
elegantly furnished and lavishly equipped, with
excellent soundproofing and climatic comfort. This is
borne out by the special ceiling containing the lighting
for the second and third passenger rows, and the air
vents on the versions equipped with supplementary rear
climate control, which make it possible to customise the
climate for each row of seats. And finally, the layout
of the rear seats in the ‘amphitheatre’ configuration
improves visibility for passengers (the rear H points
are higher than those of the cab seats).
Elegant styling and the comfort of an MPV
An original
line and a rational balance between exterior dimensions
and generous interior roominess. This is, very briefly,
the styling philosophy of the new Scudo Panorama which,
thanks to the model’s particular architecture, features
several distinctive elements typical of an MPV. For
example, the large glazed area (up to 5.8 m2 on the long
wheelbase version) and the forward position of the
windscreen mean that the new Scudo Panorama is perceived
as extremely spacious.
First of all, outside, the front gives an impression of
great sturdiness and solidity, thanks in part to the
wrapround bumpers which incorporate the foglights
(standard equipment throughout the range) and can be
painted the same colour as the bodywork. The front
headlights feature clear glass and incorporate the
direction indicators, and their elongated shape
increases the vehicle’s dynamic look. What is more, the
flowing line of the side, combined with the model’s
versatile character, gives the new Scudo Panorama a
strong stylistic dynamism; the broad side rubbing
strips, the wrapround bumpers and door handles all
convey a sense of robustness and solidity.
And finally, the new Scudo Panorama proposes a range of
eight body-colours, including new Parthenon Cream, a
non-metallic shade that is an interesting alternative to
classic Pack White, and a long list of non-standard
colours, mainly for specific customers. Two types of
elegant upholstery have been developed for the interior
finish, mixing and matching two-tone combinations and
different fabrics.
So much for the exterior. But the new Scudo Panorama’s
real strength is its passenger compartment, which
conveys modernity, comfort, quality and practicality.
The facia has a two-tone treatment that introduces good
looks and styling more typical of a saloon. The interior
is well lit and visibility is excellent, thanks to the
large glazed areas, which guarantee outstanding comfort.
The practicality of the cabin is made even more
interesting by the many oddment compartments: from the
ceiling-high ‘capucine’ shelf to the locking glove
compartment in the facia, the door panels, the oddment
compartment in the console and the glass-holders on the
facia and on the third row panels, right down to the
nets behind the seat squabs to carry small items. There
is also a small mirror between the rear-view mirror and
the ‘capucine’, through which the driver can see the
rear-seat passengers, it is a very useful device on
vehicles for families (to keep an eye on children), or
for ‘special’ transport (people with reduced mobility)
and taxis.
The driving position of the new Scudo Panorama focuses
on practicality and well-being, and creates a sensation
of great safety. The driver will find all the controls
and information he needs grouped together on a console
at the centre of the facia. A multifunction screen
supplies indications about the audio/telematic and the
climate systems. The various push-buttons on the control
board manage the (automatic) centralised closing, hazard
button, child safety system and, depending on the
version, exclusion of the ESP functions, and the parking
and antitheft sensors.
The information on the new instrument panel with its
white background is easily and immediately legible in
all light conditions, and the LCD screen reminds the
driver when the next scheduled maintenance is due and
highlights any anomalies by luminous telltales.
The seats on the new Scudo Panorama deserve a separate
mention. Their conception and styling are new, and the
padding, structure and floor attachments have been
designed to provide better containment, greater safety
and excellent comfort on the road. The front seat
cushions guarantee good longitudinal hold (anti-submarining
effect) and lateral containment, and by associating the
adjustments of the driver’s seat (longitudinal, squab
and height) with those of the steering wheel (height and
reach from 40 mm), the new Scudo Panorama guarantees an
excellent ergonomic posture and outstanding comfort for
drivers of all shapes and sizes.
The front seats are fitted with upholstered
head-restraints that adjust for height, and have two
possible configurations: individual seats for the driver
and passenger, or a seat for the driver and a two-seat
bench for passengers (this includes a ‘writing surface’
in the centre seat). The flexibility and modularity of
the rear seats are particularly interesting: they
recline, fold and can be dismantled and removed. This
means that the rear end of the cabin adapts to the
passengers, offering outstanding comfort for occupants
at all times. It also increases the versatility of the
loading bay because not only its capacity but also its
shape can be modified to meet requirements.
Cutting-edge technology for well-being on board
The new
Scudo Panorama focuses considerable attention on
well-being on board, offering the best solutions in
terms of visibility, ergonomics, and acoustic, climatic
and vibrational comfort. The passenger compartment has
been conceived as a welcoming mobile office, which is
well-lit, comfortable and quiet, with a driving position
typical of a car, ideal to tackle the road in the best
psycho-physical condition. The new Scudo Panorama is
also available with rear parking sensors that make it
easier to manoeuvre in small spaces, Cruise Control
which relieves some of the fatigue of long journeys on
the motorway, and a lavish array of audio and info-telematic
equipment.
Last but not least, the engineers who developed the new
Scudo Panorama optimised the acoustics in the cabin,
endeavouring to reduce the noise transmitted by the
engine and suspension, and to limit vibration, rustling
and aerodynamic noise. Because silence on board is not
only an element of comfort, but also an important aspect
of preventive safety for it helps the driver to focus
his attention on his driving and lets him travel long
distances without tiring.
Class-beating visibility:
Thanks to a generous glazed surface (over 5.5 m2 on the
short wheelbase and 5.8 m2 on the long wheelbase) and to
areas with optimised transparency, the interior
luminosity on the new Scudo Panorama is outstanding,
significantly enhancing comfort for occupants. The
windscreen has an area of 1.68 m2: it is positioned
forward and raked to increase the impression of
roominess. The side windows (front doors, sliding side
door and 3rd rear side windows) make up a total area of
1.53 m2 per side on the short wheelbase versions and of
1.70 m2 on the long wheelbase versions. And finally, the
large rear window (0.76 m2) also provides rear
passengers with plenty of light. The view from the rear
is also optimised by the raised position of the second
and third rows of seats (+7 cm for the second row
compared to the front seats, and +3 cm for the third row
compared to the second).
Climatic comfort:
The temperature and humidity inside a vehicle play an
important part in the creation of ideal travelling
conditions. A good climate system must therefore
maintain these two parameters between optimal limits for
the human body in all seasons of the year (temperature
between 22 e 25° C, humidity between 40 and 50%). For
this reason, the new Scudo Panorama is available with a
manual climate system, or an automatic dual-zone climate
system, depending on the version. Both systems include
an electrical control to block the intake of air from
outside and to recirculate interior air, and excellent
air distribution to the facia through 4 swivelling,
tilting air vents (2 central and 2 lateral) that
distribute warm or cold air.
A new rear climate unit is also available which both
heats and cools. The air distribution in the rear part
of the vehicle has been optimised by incorporating ducts
in the ceiling lining and adding 6 vents to distribute
air to rear passengers.
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The philosophy of the new model focuses on three
very specific values (space, people and style) that
reflect evolving demand and the purchasing criteria
for this segment. |
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The new Scudo Panorama takes a real leap forward in
terms of driveability and comfort to accommodate
this particular market bracket, reaching standards
at the peak of its category, in line with
top-of-the-range multi-purpose saloons. |
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The audio and telematic
systems:
The audio and telematic systems on the new Scudo have
been developed to match the styling of the centre
console, to enhance visual and tactile ergonomics, and
to interact with the steering wheel controls and the
multifunction screen, for the best audio and telematic
performance.
The new Scudo Panorama offers a choice of two different
radios: the first incorporates a CD player and is
compatible with hands-free Bluetooth functions; the
second incorporates the audio functions and a satellite
navigator (with monochrome or colour maps), a hands-free
dual band GSM telephone and voice controls. The outfit
includes a CD changer for 5 CDs installed under the
radio.
Cruise Control and Speed
limiter:
The equipment available on the new Scudo Panorama
includes an electronic speed regulating device (Cruise
Control). This allows you to drive at a chosen constant
speed without having to touch the accelerator, enhancing
comfort particularly on long motorway journeys. Cruise
Control can only be engaged above 30 km/h, and is
controlled by turning the ring nut on the left column
switch, adjusting the speed setting with the ‘+’ and ‘-’
controls. The device is automatically deactivated by
pressure on the brake or clutch pedal, or by activating
a special button.
A speed limiter is also available; this sets up
counter-pressure on the accelerator when a set speed is
reached. However, this threshold may be passed at any
time by pressing the pedal right down (to override the
limit) or by activating the specific lever (to exclude
the limiter).
Rain/dusk sensor:
Excellent visibility is another important feature of
preventive safety, and for this reason the new Scudo
Panorama offers the option of a rain and dusk sensor.
This is applied in the upper part of the windscreen,
behind the rear-view mirror, and it detects the first
drops of rain and manages the windscreen wipers
depending on the amount of water on the windscreen. The
second function measures the external luminosity and
automatically turns the lights on if necessary (side
lights and dipped beam).
Parking sensors:
The new Scudo Panorama can also be fitted with rear
parking sensors, a device that is automatically
activated when reverse is engaged (it can be excluded by
a special button), to simplify manoeuvres in small
spaces or when visibility is particularly poor, by
indicating the presence of obstacles behind the vehicle,
outside the driver’s field of vision. Four ultrasound
sensors incorporated in the rear bumper ‘monitor’ the
area behind the vehicle and send the information
received to a microchip control unit that processes the
data and detects the presence of potential obstacles.
The system warns the driver with an intermittent beep.
The frequency of the beep is inversely proportional to
the distance from the obstacle (below 30 cm the signal
becomes continuous).
Class-beating safety and dynamic behaviour
The new
Scudo Panorama guarantees the highest level of
preventive, active and passive safety for occupants. To
start with, the braking system is particularly effective
throughout the range, ventilated 304 x 28 mm discs are
fitted on the front wheels, and 290 x 14 mm discs on the
rear. It is combined with ABS anti-lock braking complete
with EBD and HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assistance). The new
Scudo Panorama also offers the sophisticated ESP
(Electronic Stability Program) complete with ASR (Anti
Slip Regulation).
The new model protects the driver and passengers with
the most sophisticated devices and technical solutions,
a fact borne out by the many airbags fitted: in addition
to a driver’s airbag, Fiat’s new vehicle is also
equipped with a full-size 100 litre airbag (which can be
de-activated) for the front passenger (it protects both
passengers when a two-seater bench is fitted in the
cab), sidebags (to protect the chest) and curtain-bags.
The chassis and bodyshell were designed to effectively
absorb any bumps safely and to minimise repair costs.
The result is an extremely safe vehicle structure: very
rigid in the passenger compartment, with crumple zones
at the front and rear. This significantly lowers repair
costs, and in Germany, for example, allows the new Scudo
Panorama to slot into the Full Kasko 15 insurance
bracket, five points below the average for the
competition in this segment, which translates into a
saving of Euro 500 on the annual insurance premium.
The most interesting features on the new Scudo Panorama
include the anti-theft protection system. Starting from
the deadlocks, an advanced safety system that isolates
the inside door handles and all the levers connected to
the lock. This is an important step forward in terms of
protection against theft: the deadlock can withstand any
tool used by thieves to force the door or the internal
mechanisms. The device, which is standard on all
right-hand drive versions (optional on those with
left-hand drive), must be activated voluntarily (so that
no one is locked inside the car). It takes two impulses
on the remote control to activate the deadlock. The new
Scudo Panorama can also be fitted, on request, with an
alarm system that incorporates a double level of
protection: for the vehicle’s external perimeter, thanks
to sensors positioned on the mobile parts (doors, bonnet
and loading bay tailgate) and on the electrical system,
and for the interior, with ultrasound sensors that
measure movement inside the passenger compartment. The
combination of these devices has earned the new Scudo
Panorama 5 Thatcham points for ‘theft of’ and 4 stars
for ‘theft from’ the vehicle, the highest score awarded
in this segment by Thatcham, the European vehicle
security organism.
Those are the safety features. But the new Scudo
Panorama also stands out from the crowd for its
excellent dynamic behaviour. The merit goes to the
structural design of the model, the pinpoint steering,
the choice of tyres, and above all, the front and rear
suspension systems. The front suspension is of the
MacPherson type, with triangular lower struts and an
anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension is of the
‘torsion axle’ type, i.e. with a semi-deforming rear
axle and Panhard bar (a system that is popular on MPVs,
because it guarantees excellent results in terms of
dynamic behaviour on the road, active safety and
comfort).
The new Scudo Panorama can also be fitted with
self-levelling air suspension at the rear. Standard or
optional equipment depending on the market, this is an
innovative feature that guarantees outstanding comfort,
constant trim in all load conditions and a constant
overall height (below 1.90 m on the standard roof
version) that allows it to use public garages and
multi-storey car parks (a first for this category). Air
suspension is also available, with a loading floor
height that can be adjusted manually (+/- 5 cm) to make
loading/unloading operations even easier. For safety
reasons, the trim position can only be adjusted when the
vehicle is stationary, and once adjusted it is
maintained up to a speed of 10 km/h. Above that speed,
it returns automatically to the normal on-road height.
Depending on the engine, the new Scudo Panorama offers
two types of power steering: hydraulic (with the 90
Multijet engine), and electrohydraulic (with the 120 and
140 Multijet engines). Both systems were calibrated
specifically to enhance the centring and precision of
the steering, modifying the effort to adapt to the
various use situations, particularly in town (easy
parking manoeuvres even on the heavier versions).
Regardless of the type of power steering or tyres
fitted, the new Scudo has a turning circle between kerbs
of 12.2 m with the short wheelbase, and 12.6 m with the
longer wheelbase.
Finally, the tyres on the new Scudo Panorama were
designed specifically to achieve the best balance
between handling, comfort and styling. In fact, the
entire range fits 16 inch wheels and 215/60 tyres (16”
alloys are standard equipment on the Executive outfit).
Powerful, flexible and economical engines
Comfort on
the road also means being able to count on sparkling
engines with smooth torque delivery. Today the new Scudo
range is available with three Multijet engines, all Euro
4, that guarantee extremely enjoyable driving (and
outstanding elasticity), superb performance and low
running costs (consumption and maintenance), as well as
reliability and respect for the environment.
The following engines are available, combined with
sturdy, reliable 5 or 6-speed mechanical gearboxes: 1.6
90 Multijet (5 speeds); 2.0 120 Multijet (6 speeds); and
2.0 140 Multijet Power with a DPF as standard equipment
(136 bhp and 6 speeds).
Achieving a perfect balance between power and
consumption in all types of mission and operating
conditions, the new Scudo Panorama (only with the short
wheelbase) equipped with the 90 Multijet, which delivers
66 kW (90 bhp) at 4000 rpm and peak torque of 180 Nm at
1750 rpm, has a top speed of 145 km/h and fuel
consumption of 7.2 l/100 km in the combined cycle.
The performance of the two variable geometry two litre
engines is also excellent: the 136 bhp version takes the
new Scudo Panorama to a top speed of 170 km/h, with fuel
consumption of just 7.4 l/100 km in the combined cycle
(the same values are 160 km/h and 7.2 l/100 km on the
120 bhp version). The 2.0 120 Multijet delivers a
maximum of 88 kW (120 bhp) at 4000 rpm (peak torque of
300 Nm at 2000 rpm), while the 2.0 140 Multijet delivers
100 kW (136 bhp) at 4000 rpm and torque of 320 Nm at
2000 rpm.
The secret of the three Common Rail turbodiesels is the
second generation Multijet system. This state-of-the-art
technology manages high injection pressures (up to 1600
bar) independently of the engine speed and the quantity
of fuel injected. Compression is not linked only to
engine speed but also to several parameters which are
communicated to the control unit by specific sensors
(air and diesel fuel temperature, engine revs, the
position of the accelerator, brake and clutch pedals,
vehicle speed, and air and diesel fuel pressure).
The key element of this system is the electronic control
unit, which commands a series of injections very close
together (hence the name ‘Multijet’). There may be as
many as 5 injections during each engine cycle, instead
of the usual two. The same quantity of diesel fuel is
burned inside the cylinder, but it is broken down into
numerous small bursts, making combustion more gradual.
This guarantees ‘smoother’ operation in all situations,
outstanding elasticity and prompt reactions that make
these engines very similar to petrol engines. The other
advantages include quiet operation, reduced emissions
and boosted performance, accompanied by engine
efficiency that enhances the driveability of the
vehicle.
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