Fiat presented to "Caravan Salon" held in Dusseldorf from 29 August - 7 September the new ‘Portofino’ show van based on the Fiorino, the smallest model in the range.

The ‘ Portofino ’ is a contemporary interpretation of the legendary beach buggy, the open-topped cars that were built from small Fiat models by some creative Italian bodybilders from the 60's. The roots of the ‘Portofino’ show van lie in this particular tradition of Italian styling and exclusivity.

The original ‘Portofino’ show van, came to life thancks to the colaboration betwen Vernagallo-Holiday - a conversion company that specialises in small recreational vehicles – and partly through a joint venture with SALT ( a body builder tuner that specialises in the tuning and preparation of special and exclusive cars).

The latest addition to the Fiat Professional range is also a useful and practical car, perfectly adapted for holidays and leisure use. Hence Fiat’s decision to choose the recreational vehicle motor shows (2008/09 season) as an international stage for the ‘Portofino’ show van world premiere.

This is undoubtedly an unusual choice for a car-maker that would normally tend to concentrate on corporate advertising at this type of event. The decision to showcase Fiat Professional confirms Fiat’s commitment to this market and its consistent interest in recreational vehicle shows where visitors can revel in the idea of entertainment, fredom and unique lifestyle.

Best points of  Fiat Portofino
The car is based on a Fiorino Combi – the entry level people-carrying version of the range. Fiat Portofio can accommodate 5 people, in conditions of absolute comfort and safety. Its flexibility is assured by a 1/3 – 2/3 split rear seat that can be removed to allow more space for the trunk. Thanks to its dimensions ( 4 metres long and 1.7 metres wide) and turning circle of under 10 m, the vehicle can be handle with ease in any situation.

Exterior Bodywork
Outside, the ‘Portofino’ show van is notable for certain styling traits. First and foremost, the open-topped body benefits from the original body’s natural configuration with markings and grooves on the side that convincingly support the new vehicle silhouette. The passenger compartment doors have also disappeared though the rear swing doors keep their original hinge arrangement to enable them to contain the generous load compartment effectively. And more: The windscreen is original while the rollbar-like central ring, typical of a sporty off-road vehicle, gives the show van a decided appearance of sturdiness and dynamism (while also ensuring sufficient stiffness, in conjunction with the substantial reinforcements around the side member and rear).

Portofino's Interior
The interior flooring takes the form of a special hull trimmed with a wood finish while the original dashboard has been repainted to reflect the overall light-filled, sophisticated look of the internal finish. The interior of the ‘Portofino’ looks for all the world like an open-air sitting room with a nautical look, with lashings of innovative flair. The seats are upholstered with lively, sophisticated fabrics; natural fibres treated using a special waterproofing process.  A covered version will be available at a later stage for protection against sun and rain.

Colours and tones
The interplay of colours is a sight to behold: earth tones on the inside and sun tones on the outside. This original, bold combination gives the show van a uplifting and sophisticated look. Special contrasting colours on the sides (anthracite and orange) are also repeated on the front bumpers and rear doors, to create a play of colours that reflects the same colour combination as the interiors. The reference to the exclusive seaside resort of Portofino is clear: a heady blend of style, colour, exclusivity and holidays – all in the very best of Italian taste.

Fiat Portofino benefits from all the Fiorino versions
- special "traction +" device that increases vehicle traction to ensure the vehicle can get out of trouble, even in sticky situations;
- smooth and spirited engines –1.4 petrol and 1.3 Multijet units (the latter also available with DPF and CO2 levels lower than 120 g/km) – that offer driving satisfaction, outstanding performance, low running costs and also reliability and respect for the environment; 
- Comfort-Matic robotised gearbox, plus the full range of currently available extras designed for practicality, comfort and safety.
- special ‘traction +’ device that increases vehicle traction to ensure the vehicle can get out of trouble, even in sticky situations;
- speed block system that locks the  top speed (particularly useful when driving in tourist areas);

Pictures: Fiat Portofino