Fiat Panda

When we usually think of iconic and historic motorsport models, we always fall for large, luxurious or sports models. The FIAT Panda it has none of those characteristics, but it has undoubtedly written some of the golden pages of the motoring world. An urban Italian of the old school that little by little is catching up.

The history of Panda starts in 1980, although many of us know it from its Spanish version, the SEAT Marbella.. FIAT and SEAT They have a long history of collaborations, and one of them is the one that concerns us in this case. That first generation was around for many years thanks to its tremendous durability and renowned fame. Finally, in 2003, a second edition arrived, much changed and more modern.

Nor are we going to think that FIAT has released many generations of the Panda because it is not. In fact there are only three. The last one was launched on the market in 2012., and since then it has not undergone any significant alteration, so it is still in force. However, it has received slight updates, the last one at the end of 2020, mainly focused on improving equipment.

FIAT Panda technical characteristics

FIAT urban cars stand out for their tremendous qualities for the city. They are the ideal alternative for those who do not leave the narrow and congested streets of large cities. The Panda and the FIAT 500 They have a lot in common, and that is that they both use the same platform on which they are based. It is the most compact structure of the house, the same one used in its day by other models such as the Ford Ka.

FIAT's Mini architecture makes us see that we are talking about the smallest segment of the market, segment A. The Panda integrates perfectly with it with measures of 3,65 meters long, 1,64 meters wide and 1,55 meters high. To these external dimensions must be added a wheelbase of 2,3 meters. A very short battle that forces to present a cabin of reduced proportions.

So small that in many cases the FIAT Panda only homologates a maximum capacity for four passengers in position 2 + 2, although in some versions it is possible to add a fifth passenger. Although this is possible, it is not recommended to mount three passengers behind due to lack of space. If so, the route should be as short as possible. All versions officialize the same load capacity, 225 liters of trunk.

FIAT Panda mechanical range and gearboxes

The city is the ideal environment for the FIAT Panda, it has been designed to be able to circulate on the streets or on interurban roads without any problem. Another thing is that when we go out on fast tracks, where the low power of their engines is not entirely satisfactory. Despite this, FIAT has managed to integrate the latest generation mechanical systems in the range of engines. A mechanical portfolio that relies exclusively on a single variant with a Mild-Hybrid system.

Its official name is 1.0 Hybrid. It uses a small three-cylinder, 999 cubic centimeter naturally aspirated engine that delivers 70 horsepower at 6.000 revolutions and a maximum torque of 92 Nm at 3.500 revolutions. It has the MHEV system with which it gets the ECO label. It is only available with a six-speed automatic transmission that sends all the power to the front axle.

Equipment of the FIAT Panda

From the inside, the FIAT Panda has undergone a considerable improvement in terms of equipment, but it continues to present a low-quality interior due to excessive use of hard plastics that drastically reduce the feeling of comfort and quality. Cheap materials with correct adjustments that above all provide durability and ease of maintenance. Not much space is offered either, with the rear seats being the most affected by the cut measures of the urban.

As usual at FIAT, the range of equipment is structured in a clear and staggered way. The Panda presents two trim levels: Panda and Cross. In each of them we have more or less equipment, but above all what each finish offers us is a particular aesthetic, going from a more basic style to a more country style with 4×4 capacity, and even a more sporty finish aesthetically speaking.

As far as equipment is concerned the Panda is not able to match what more modern and latest generation models offer, mainly in terms of driving assistants, where it lacks almost all the usual systems today. But it is worth noting some modern elements such as the multimedia system with a 7-inch screen, the parking sensors, or the heated front seats.

FIAT Panda video test

The FIAT Panda according to Euro NCAP

Unfortunately one of the weak points of the FIAT Panda is its safety. The excessive longevity of the model means that it has become very outdated in terms of security. Euro NCAP put the Italian urban rider to the test in 2018, and after the tests he was not awarded a single star out of the five possible. The results were as follows: 45% protection for adult passengers, 16% protection for child passengers, 47% for pedestrian vulnerability, and 7% for driver assistants. It is one of the worst valued cars in the European market.

The FIAT Panda of Km 0 and second hand

Despite not having many qualities, the FIAT Panda has achieved good sales figures throughout its history. The original units increasingly acquire more value for their simplicity, reliability and 4 × 4 capabilities. They're easy to modify and upgrade, and that makes resale value higher on older models than newer ones. The depreciation of newer units is high, around 32% as similar and better models have come onto the market.

If we take a look at the used and second-hand market, we see several hundred offers. Prices start in amounts close to 1.000 euros for second generation models with more than 200 thousand kilometers accumulated, with the prices of the 4×4 variants being higher. In the Km 0 channel there are also units available, obviously all of them from the latest generation. They generally offer little power and basic finish, prices start at figures close to 9.000 euros, surpassing the barrier of 12.000 euros for hybrid or all-wheel drive models.

FIAT Panda rivals

The Italians are unique in creating highly practical city cars. The streets of its ancient cities are a very hostile environment for large cars. Thanks to them, segment A has gained a lot of popularity. The rivals of the FIAT Panda are many, and most of them more modern, better equipped and more complete, although many have made the leap to 100% hybrid technology. Some of them are: Hyundai i10, KIA Picanto, Skoda Citigoe IV, SEAT Mii Electric, smart forfour, Citroën C1, Volkswagen e Up!, Mitsubishi Space Star, Renault Twingo, Suzuki Ignis and more. Of course we must also mention the FIAT 500.

Highlight

• 4×4 capacities
• Maneuverability
• Reliable and frugal mechanical range

To improve

• outdated model
• no security
• internal quality

FIAT Panda prices

One of the great attractions of the Panda is its low selling price. Being a model more than used by the Italian brand, it can keep costs low, offering the public a price that is difficult to match. In Spain the starting price of the FIAT Panda is 14.550 euros, without offers or promotions. This value corresponds to a MY2021 Panda Hybrid with base finish and 70 horsepower engine. The most expensive unit of all is the Panda Cross Hybrid. Its tariff price is 17.550 euros, without offers or promotions.

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