Modern styling
 

An original line and a rational balance between external dimensions and a generous amount of space inside the cab and the loading bay. This is basically the styling philosophy behind the new Scudo, which maintains a high level of stylistic harmony between the volumes on all versions (short wheelbase, long wheelbase, high roof). We must underline that the architecture of the new model highlights certain distinctive elements that make this vehicle more of an MPV than a working vehicle. In fact, the generous glazing (5.50 m2 on the short wheelbase Combi and 5.84 m2 on the long wheelbase Combi) and the forward position of the windscreen mean that the New Scudo conveys a perception of great roominess. This perception is confirmed by the generous dimensions: there are two exterior lengths (4.80 and 5.13 metres) and two heights: 1.89 metres for the lower version with air suspension (1.94 m with steel suspension) and 2.20 m for the higher version with air suspension (2.28 m with steel suspension).

Exterior styling

The front conveys an impression of sturdiness and solidity, which is highlighted by the wrapround bumper that incorporates the foglights which are standard on some versions, and can be painted the same colour as the body. The front light clusters, which include the direction indicators, have clear lenses and an elongated shape that makes the vehicle more dynamic. The rear end has square lines that immediately tell you that this vehicle is capacious and easy to load. The rear doors can be of the 2-flap type, panelled or glazed, and a top-swung rear door is also available on low roof versions. We must also mention the original rear lights that underline the modernity of the styling and resemble those on the New Ducato. The sleek line of the sides, and the styling typical of an MPV, gives the New Scudo a strong stylistic dynamism; the large side rubbing strips, wrapround bumpers and door handles speak of strength and solidity, the sturdy moulding on the sides emphasises the length of the vehicle and transmits a sense of the solidity of the sheet metal; and on the glazed versions there is a single continuous flush glazed surface, while on the panelled versions the same area can easily be personalised with advertising decals.

The New Scudo comes in a range of 10 bodywork colours, including the new Parthenon Cream, a non-metallic shade that is an interesting alternative to Pack White, and a long list of non-standard colours, mainly for specific customers. For the internal finishing elements, three types of upholstery have been developed, mixing and matching two-tone shades and different fabrics. The first is designed for vehicles used for professional purposes (Van and Combi Standard), while the second (Panorama Family) and third (Panorama Executive) are the ideal solution for anyone looking for an extra touch of comfort and elegance.

The cab and the driving position

Inside, the New Scudo styling embodies modernity, comfort, quality and practicality. The facia has a two-tone treatment that enhances the styling and good looks more typical of a saloon than of a working vehicle. The interior is well lit and visibility is excellent, thanks to the large glazed areas, which optimise working conditions while they guarantee outstanding comfort. The practicality of the cab 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.

The driving position of the new Scudo focuses on practicality and well-being, and creates a sensation of great safety. The driver will find all the controls and information he needs to drive grouped together on a console at the centre of the facia. A multifunction screen supplies indications about the audio/telematic systems fitted and the climate/ventilation system.
 

The various push-buttons on the control board manage the (automatic) centralised closing, the rear loading bay closure (Van), and emergency button, activate the child lock (Combi) and, depending on the version, exclude the ESP functions, and the parking and antitheft sensors. The information provided on the new instrument panel is easy and immediate to read in all light conditions. Available in two specification levels, depending on the version, the instrument panel contains four dials (two circular dials with the speedometer and rev counter, and two ‘quarter circle’ gauges for the water temperature and fuel level). The LCD screen also reminds the driver when the next programmed maintenance is due and highlights any anomalies by luminous telltales.

Front and rear seats

The seats on the New Scudo deserve a separate mention. With their new conception and styling, the padding, structure and floor attachments have been designed to guarantee better containment, greater safety and excellent comfort on the road. The front seat cushions guarantee good longitudinal holding (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 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: the first envisages individual seats for the driver and passenger; the second envisages a seat for the driver and a two-seat bench for passengers (this is equipped with a ‘desk’ in the centre seat). The flexibility and modularity of the rear seats is 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 any occupants at all times. This also increases the versatility of the loading bay because not only its capacity but also its shape can be modified according to requirements.

Storage compartments in the cab

The New Scudo has several storage compartments on the facia: a lit, locking glove compartment on the passenger side, which is cooled when the vehicle is fitted with air conditioning; a capacious open oddment pocket on the facia in front of the passenger; two slide-away glass holders depending on the specification level, open (Van) or closed (Combi) oddment compartments under the glass-holders, and an open storage compartment under the steering column. The lower part of the door panels also incorporates an oddment pocket and a bottle holder, and there is a net storage basket under the two-seater bench in the cab. The New Scudo also has a ceiling-high storage tray (capucine) providing additional space for various items in the cab. We should point out that there is a small internal mirror between the rearview mirror and the ‘capucine’, through which the driver can see the rear-seat passengers. This device, which is mounted on the Panorama version, is greatly appreciated on vehicles for families (to keep an eye on children), and for ‘special’ transport versions (people with reduced mobility) or taxis.

On all the vans fitted with partitions, the capucine can incorporate a central storage compartment that is accessible from the loading bay. This ‘inner tunnel’ allows service personnel (electricians, plumbers, etc.) to exploit the entire load length of the vehicle: the passage through the partition lets them gain an extra 650 mm in length, 300 mm of which inside the capucine.  And finally, Panorama versions only are fitted with an open oddment compartment in the lower part of the door panel which can hold a bottle, a glass holder in the upper part of the panel level with the third row, and nets for small items behind the seat squabs. The Panorama Family and Executive versions can also be fitted with a luggage cover and rear shelf (optional or standard depending on the outfit).