Now available for order in the UK, the sixth generation of the FIAT Ducato FIAT Ducato models will be equipped with a six-speed manual transmission as standard.

The new model will have improved efficiency, with CO2 emissions for the entry-level 2.3 MultiJet II 110hp as low as 170g/km and fuel economy figure of 44.1 mpg on the NEDC cycle. Both the 2.3 MultiJet II 130, which produces 130hp and 320Nm, and the 2.3L MultiJet II 150, with 150hp and 350 Nm, when equipped with optional start-stop, get even higher emissions reduction and improved fuel efficiency 164g/km and 45.6 mpg for both engines respectively, according to the automaker.

The heavy-duty, 3.0 MultiJet Power 180, with 180hp and 400Nm of torque, has CO2 emissions of 203g/km and returns 36.7 mpg on the NEDC cycle and, like every other engine in the FIAT Ducato range, has 30,000 mile service intervals to help lower service bills and reduce time the vehicle spends off the road for maintenance.

The new FIAT Ducato offers 10,000 variants available to customers across its commercial, passenger and chassis vehicles. Within the van range, this is a choice of eight different load volumes, ranging from 8 to 17 m³, across four lengths, three wheelbases and three heights, with payloads of between 800 and 2,100kg, as well as three different sizes each of side-sliding and rear doors - all told, this makes for a total of 1,000 possible van body configurations alone, according to the automaker.

The squared-off load compartment offers class-leading cargo space between the rear wheel arches (1.42 m) as well as category-leading internal dimensions and accessibility.

The new FIAT Ducato also boasts best-in-class space efficiency, i.e. the ratio of load compartment length to total length, particularly on versions of less than six metres which are predominantly used in urban areas where the external footprint needs to be as small as possible.

Six lengths are offered for the chassis cabs and cowls, including a new 3,800mm wheelbase version, and there will even be a new three-way tipper available directly from FIAT Professional, available for order later in the year. More than 250 optional extras are offered on the new Ducato, such as the fixed or removable tow hook and a retractable rear access step.

Mechanically, the new FIAT Ducato retains its front-wheel drive configuration with a McPherson front suspension and a rigid-axle rear suspension with leaf springs.

Standard equipment on the 2014 FIAT Ducato includes:

• ESC (Electronic Stability Control) w/ Hill Holder, ROM, RMI, LAC, ASR, MSR & EBA.

• DRL (Daytime Running Lights).

• Electric windows.

• Electrically adjustable and heated mirrors.

• Remote central locking with deadlocks.

• Servotronic power- assisted steering.

• Dual passenger seat.

• Driver's seat armrest & lumbar support.

• 30W Audio system with MP3 playback and USB/AUX ports.

• Bluetooth hands-free connectivity.

• Updated dashboard.

• Fixed Full Width Steel Bulkhead.

• Full-size spare wheel.

• Speed block (56/62/70/81 MPH) set in workshop.

The full equipment specification for the 2014 FIAT Ducato Tecnico is as follows:

• Manual air conditioning.

• U-Connect DAB Radio with 5 inch touchscreen, CD/USB/AUX.

• Integrated TomTom satellite navigation with "One-Step Voice Entry Destination."

• LED DRL (Daytime Running Lights).

• Uprated instrument panel.

• Cruise Control with Speed Limiter.

• Reverse parking sensors.

• Reversing camera.

• Front fog lights.

• Special wheel trims.

Pricing for the new Ducato starts at £19,995 - an increase of £350 over the outgoing Ducato. Prices for the FIAT Ducato chassis cab starts at £22,845. The new FIAT Ducato is available to order now with first deliveries expected to take place in July 2014.