Much has been written about ‘White Van Man’, that much-derided tradesman who tends to cut up, tailgate and generally terrorise innocent motorists on the highways and byways of Britain.

But rather than join the chorus of disapproval, I have often wondered about the capabilities of the white van in question. They universally seem to be a match for most vehicles on the road, tearing up the fast lane of motorways and accelerating from junctions at often breakneck speeds.

Handling on tight corners and hairpin bends seems sports car-like and the ability to stop on a sixpence to avoid colliding with other motorists, cyclists and general bystanders seems unparalleled.

So it was time to find out exactly what sort of machine is capable of this and where better to look than the 2010 Fleet Van of the Year, the Fiat Doblo Cargo.

The Doblo looks almost cute on the outside with its large bug-like headlights and ‘smiley’ grille. Any idea that the interior was going to be rough and ready was also quickly dispelled as it is basically car on the inside.

The seats are well-padded and comfortable, while the controls are easy to read and readily to hand. The test model was a little basic in car terms but there was a computer of sorts offering fuel economy and range readings, none of which will attract the attention of White Van Man (WVM), although his fleet manager may be more interested.

But there is a reasonable stereo on which to play Radio 1 at top volume as well as electric windows for rapid gesticulation when required.

What really struck me was the shoulder room inside the cab. In fact there is room for a centre seat, presumably for a spotty apprentice to learn the tricks of the trade and in fact the Combi version of the van does seat three-in-a-row.

As for performance, my suspicions were proved correct.

The Doblo is quick off the mark with the torquey 1.6 MultiJet diesel engine seemingly capable of beating most cars away from the lights.

Handling is also pin-sharp through the precise rack and pinion steering and much of the time I forgot I was actually driving a van as I whizzed around corners and overtook other vehicles with ease.

So it ticks the boxes around town where I suspect the Doblo will spend much of its life, but there is plenty in reserve for the occasional motorway journey with a six speed gearbox offering relaxed cruising.

And in terms of economy, it will happily return more than 50mpg on the combined cycle.

But what is a van really for? Carrying stuff and as much of it as possible when needed.

Although categorised as a small van, the Doblo is capable of taking up to 1,000 kg when needed and comes in a variety of versions offering load volumes of up to 4.2 cubic metres.

You can choose a basic panelled version with varying degrees of glazing with the option of a tailgate or rear doors. A high roof is also available for taller loads.

The test car came with two sliding side doors which were very useful as well as rear doors, offering maximum practicality.

The cargo area interior was also panelled to prevent damage to the van/cargo in transit which is an optional extra.

Deciding to make full use of the van, I chucked in a few sacks of household junk which it happily swallowed and drove around the Oxford ring road.

The contents did not slide around and I was able to load and unload easily through the side doors without having to crawl around through the back. I could have used the six floor hooks to secure the load if required.

Safe to say, the Doblo will swallow surprisingly large loads and transport them from A to B quickly and efficiently.

And that is really what you want from a van.

As for WVM, the Doblo is a real performer.

Model tested: Fiat Doblo Cargo Performance: 0-62mph; top speed 102mph Economy: 52.3mpg (combined) CO2 emissions: 143g/km Car supplied by: HTC Van Centre, Kidlington

Contact: 01865 844100 Web: www.htcvancentre.co.uk