The trophy was presented during a gala evening to mark the 63rd edition of the Hanover International Motor Show.

Announcing the 2011 result, chairman of the International Van of the Year jury, Pieter Wieman, said: “The winning van design had impressed the jury on a number of fronts and above all by the fact that Fiat has succeeded in widening the number of platform and body varieties to a higher number than any other van in this category.

“The jury was particularly impressed with the wide range of engines. Furthermore it was impressed with the driving qualities and the high level of comfort that the different versions of the Doblò offer”.

Lorenzo Sistino, Fiat Professional ceo, commented: “New Doblò Cargo has been an innovative vehicle right from its concept. With Doblò we offer our customers the widest choice, the lowest emissions and the most advanced technology in this category. The award is a testimony to our product innovation capacity. The fact that the Doblò has won demonstrates its level of innovation, but also the extent of the changes in order to respond to new customer needs”.

Gerry Clarke, director of Fiat Professional UK, said: “We have been enjoying a high level of interest from customers and the media in new Doblò Cargo since it was launched in the UK in March this year. It has already been widely acclaimed, and the International Van of the Year title is a wonderful accolade.”

To check out the latest Fiat van reviews, come to the Fleet News van reviews section.