Ground clearance for fiat panda four-wheel drive. The new Fiat Panda is stylish, comfortable and expensive. Easier and harder

The third generation of the compact Fiat Panda appeared before the world community in 2011, and just a year later, a modification with the 4x4 prefix saw the light. She got a similar motor range, slightly retouched interior and more interesting design. Thanks to the increased ground clearance, large uniquely designed alloy wheels and high profile tires, the model looks more solid than the usual front-wheel drive version. Moreover, the manufacturer has slightly expanded the palette of colors for the body. From now on, the car can additionally be painted in soft orange or dark green metallic. In the latest version, the compact machine, thanks to the embossed stampings, looks like a real jeep. It should be noted stylish crossover body kit on bumpers, doors and sills. It protects the paintwork in the most vulnerabilities and gives the new off-road charm.

Dimensions

Despite the external surroundings, the Fiat Panda 4x4 is a class A mini hatchback. His dimensions are: length 3686 mm, width 1672 mm, height 1605 mm, and the wheelbase is 2300 mm. As for ground clearance, it has been increased by 20mm to a not-so-impressive 140mm. This clearance is typical of most compact city cars. Thanks to the low center of gravity, they boast good maneuverability, so necessary on winding streets. As for the suspension itself, it is nothing special. Front independent McPherson struts with stabilizer roll stability, and behind - a semi-dependent beam.

Despite the small size, the trunk volume is quite tolerable. With the backrests of the second row of seats raised, about 225 liters of free space remain behind.

Specifications

The novelty will be equipped with two motors inherited from the standard version, exclusively mechanical boxes variable gears and a plug-in all-wheel drive system. The latter is capable of transferring part of the torque to rear axle, but only at speeds less than 50 kilometers per hour.

The base engine is an in-line turbocharged two-cylinder gasoline unit with 875 cubic centimeters. Despite the tiny volume, the direct fuel injection system and advanced turbocharger allowed the engineers to squeeze 85 Horse power at 5500 rpm and 145 Nm of torque, starting already at 1900 rpm. Such versions gain a hundred kilometers per hour in 12.1 seconds, accelerate to a maximum of 166 km / h and consume about 4.9 liters of gasoline per hundred in a combined driving cycle.

An alternative unit is a 1.2-liter in-line turbodiesel. It produces 75 horses at 4000 rpm and 190 Nm of torque at 1500 rpm. Heavy-fuel models accelerate to 100 km/h in 14.5 seconds, gain a maximum of 159 km/h and consume 4.7 liters of diesel per hundred kilometers in the same mode.

Outcome

Panda 4x4 - a new look at the model with great story. She has an unusual and memorable design, in perfect harmony with the class and technical filling models. Such a car is the best way to emphasize the character and personality of its owner. Salon is a realm of high-quality finishing materials, well-thought-out ergonomics and practicality. Even heavy traffic or a country trip should not bring unnecessary inconvenience to the driver. The manufacturer is well aware that modern car, first of all, should give driving pleasure. That is why the hatchback is equipped with compact and economical power units, which are an alloy of advanced technologies and many years of experience of engineers. Fiat Panda 4x4 is a compact and economical vehicle with high cross-country ability.

Video

Offering something different from competitors like the Hyundai i10 and Skoda Citigo. While some rivals may not match his personality and style, they offer a more modern design and extra space. And yet, the latest model, according to the owners, from the Fiat Panda (2008) is distinguished by its large size, an increase in usable volume, and also roomy trunk, which expands easily thanks to the sliding rear seats.

When enough comfortable ride, impeccable handling and excellent visibility Panda is an excellent city car. However, during long trips, the lack of engine performance can become tiring. The quality of the interior trim does not always match the style of more prestigious competitors, but the latest generation of Pandas has earned an excellent reputation for its reliability in the eyes of users.

Model history

Fiat has a long history of building some of the city's most iconic cars. Models such as the Topolino, the Fiat 126 and, of course, the classic Fiat 500 cemented the Italian brand's position as a manufacturer of small subcompacts.

Back in 1980, the release of the original Panda brought a lot of new things. Designed by the legendary Giugiaro, the car offered basic transportation options for pennies and rightly earned a reputation for reliability, which was further solidified when Fiat introduced an all-wheel-drive variant a few years later. In different markets, the first generation of the Panda was sold for 23 years.

Of course, the second generation, which appeared in 2003, never managed to repeat this. Nevertheless, the car remained popular until the manufacturer decided to focus on the new small 3-door Fiat 500 models (2007). According to car owners, the Fiat Panda resembled a much larger car and looked like a mini-jeep, and its vertical taillights are the same as those of Volvo, although their use dates back to 1994.

In 2011, Fiat introduced the third generation of the model. The Panda began to look more expensive, like a distinctive and fashionable car, although it retained the height and boxy shape of the second generation. If a previous model was assembled in Poland, the updated version began to be produced at the plant in Naples, where Alfa Romeo Alfasud used to be produced.

The Panda shares a common base with the Fiat 500 and Ford Ka and is equipped with a variety of diesel and petrol 2-, 3- and 4-cylinder engines. The model has many worthy competitors in the city car class, including Renault Twingo, Škoda Citigo, Suzuki Celerio and Hyundai i10.

Fiat offers a wide range of interior trims. From the entry-level Spartan Rohr to the more highly specialized Lounge variant with options such as alloy wheels and air conditioning. In between is the Easy trim, and buyers can also opt for a Trekking model with a reinforced case lining.

The Fiat Panda 4x4 is an all-wheel-drive off-road style option that comes in handy in tough conditions. An even more extreme Panda Cross model is released, which complements the previous one with an increase in ground clearance and a descent control system.

Performance

According to car owners, the Fiat Panda copes well with driving in the city, but on the highway, insufficient engine efficiency comes to the fore.

Riding in urban areas is truly excellent thanks to the high driving position, excellent visibility and lighting. The soft suspension easily copes with the unevenness of the road surface.

The "City" button on the dashboard makes steering easier - so much so that you can easily drive the car with one finger, squeezing effortlessly into narrow passages. However, the system evokes a sense of detachment, so it's best to save it for parking.

The characteristics of the Fiat Panda, according to the owners, provide good control on the road, but, unfortunately, the engine is not always up to par. Its lack of refinement gives an advantage to rivals such as the Hyundai i10. And the almost identical urban trio of Skoda Citigo, SEAT Mii and Volkswagen up! have a distinct advantage on longer trips, especially when compared to more affordable petrol-powered versions of the Fiat. In this regard, the Fiat Panda diesel is praised by the owners, but, unfortunately, it is only available with the most expensive Panda Trekking 4x4 trim.

Engines

The technical characteristics of the Fiat Panda, according to the owners, are largely determined by the power plant. The lineup engines includes 2 petrol and 1 diesel. 0.9-liter 2-cylinder TwinAir petrol with 84 hp With. is the most interesting choice. The motor not only provides the best performance, but also makes a pleasant rumble when set to work.

Although the TwinAir is the fastest engine in the Fiat Panda range, don't expect amazing results. It allows you to accelerate to 100 km/h in 11.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 177 km/h. The mid-range turbocharger delivers more power than other engines in the range. However, the efficiency of the motor is far from the official figures declared by the manufacturer.

Petrol engine with a capacity of 68 liters. With. experiences maximum loads and sounds hysterically on the freeway. It is quite slow and accelerates to 100 km/h in 14.2 seconds, so users do not recommend choosing this version.

It remains a 1.3-liter diesel MultiJet with a capacity of 94 hp. With. While it delivers more power and torque than the TwinAir, it has a much smaller rev range and is therefore a couple of tenths of a second slower to 60 mph. There's barely enough power to overtake, and on the highway the engine tends to be reasonably efficient at low cruising speeds. It's just not as attractive as the Panda TwinAir.

Transmission

Basically, the model is equipped with manual 5- and 6-speed gearboxes. Some modifications, such as the TwinAir Turbo, are equipped with a Dualogic transmission, which can be used both in manual mode and as an automatic. According to reviews, the manual Fiat Panda requires simple movements of the lever back and forth to shift gears. Gear selection and clutch are made by an electronic control system and hydraulics, so there is no clutch pedal. The Fiat Panda robot is called traditional by car owners, but with the advantage of fuel economy, which is usually provided by manual transmissions.

Fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and operating costs

All Fiat Panda engines promise impressive fuel economy performance, according to car owners, but the 1.3-liter MultiJet diesel comes out on top, requiring 3.9 liters per 100 kilometers. It emits 104 g/km CO 2 , which, unfortunately, exceeds the allowance.

The 0.9-litre TwinAir petrol model is exempt from road tax in the UK, as it emits 99g of carbon monoxide per kilometer. The engine also claims a fuel consumption of 4.4 l / 100 km, although, according to user reviews, it will be difficult to get close to this figure in the real world. This shouldn't be a major problem given the low mileage of small cars like the Panda, and the slight drop in efficiency some drivers will experience is a reasonable price to pay for the attractive character of the TwinAir.

The last engine in the range in terms of performance, the 1.2-litre petrol engine, looks more attractive from a financial point of view. It claims only 5.2 l/100 km and emits quite a lot of carbon dioxide (119 g/km). Nevertheless, in the basic trim it costs 20% less than the most inexpensive TwinAir Easy model.

The price advantage of the 1.2-litre variant is roughly halved when comparing versions of the same trim level, making it hard to pick. And yet, users are leaning towards TwinAir because the pleasure that comes with riding with it compensates for all losses.

All engines benefit from efficient and economical technology that stops the motor at Idling, so Panda will not be a frequent visitor to gas stations.

Insurance

The standard versions of the Fiat Panda have an insurance group rating of 2 to 7, so buyers shouldn't have a problem with inexpensive policies. However, some competitors, such as the Škoda Citigo, are available with Group 1 insurance, which may be attractive to first-time buyers.

Depreciation

As the city car sector exploded with competitive offerings, the traditionally strong players began to wane a little. Used Fiats have never been in high demand. However, given the low initial cost, the depreciation will not be too high. According to experts, after 3 years, Fiat will retain 42.7% of its original price.

Interior, design and technology

Owner reviews call the Fiat Panda a pretty choice in the city car market. It has a more attractive appearance than the slightly conservatively designed Volkswagen up! and standard Kia Picanto. For many owners, the design of the model was the deciding factor. Height, bold details and an attractive mix of straight and curved lines certainly stand out from the competition.

The interior continues from the exterior of the car and features many designer square shapes with rounded corners. A short, toy-style shift lever and colorful fabrics contribute to the model's playful character.

While the interior has improved a lot since the 2008 Fiat Panda, owner feedback suggests that some materials feel too cheap in terms of quality and don't match the Volkswagen up!, SEAT Mii and Škoda Citigo.

The range of the model has 4 trim levels: Pop, Easy, Lounge and Trekking. The inexpensive options look a little cheap with their 14-inch steel wheels, but they have electrified front windows and an MP3-enabled CD player as standard.

The mid-level Easy models are equipped with remote central locking and air conditioning, as well as a set of roof rails, which certainly add a bit of flair to the car.

The Lounge variants are more stylish, with alloy wheels and fog lights. Meanwhile, the Panda Trekking version has added 15-inch alloys, ESP, hill start assist, as well as Traction Plus and a bold exterior cladding that provides a much greater visual presence.

Navigation, stereo and infotainment system

Even the entry-level Pop trim comes with a 4-speaker audio system, CD player, and MP3 compatibility.

The Easy trim already offers 6 speakers, and the Trekking top range model adds a Blue & Me setting, providing a Bluetooth smartphone connection to a TomTom navigation device. In addition, the car is equipped with steering controls, which are an additional option on other modifications.

Practicality, comfort and boot space

Due to its upright position and angular shape, the Fiat Panda, according to car owners, seems larger than it actually is. This is certainly a far cry from the tight packaging of its predecessor.

With a high roofline, the car appears to be filled with air and visibility is all-round. Even though there's plenty of room ahead wheel is height adjustable only and on most models an optional Flex Pack must be specified to get height adjustment on the driver's seat.

The Flex Pack also adds a valuable folding rear seat, luggage net and folding table, and, unusually, you can choose between a 2- and 3-seat rear row configuration with a seat-width ratio of 50:50 or 60:40.

The interior of the Fiat Panda is said to be complemented by handy storage spaces, including a large tray in front of the front seat passenger and multiple cup holders.

Dimensions

At 3653mm long and 1643mm wide, the Panda is almost identical to the Hyundai i10, but 10cm longer than the Volkswagen up! and 20 cm - Toyota Aygo. For comparison, the larger Fiat Punto Supermini is 4065mm long.

Legroom, headroom and passenger space

The Fiat Panda's rear row feels a bit cheap, according to reviews, but it slides back and forth, allowing for more legroom or luggage. The boxy shape of the Fiat Panda means passengers have plenty of room to rest. Four adults can squeeze into the car with reasonable comfort, but three in the back row will be cramped, as in any city subcompact. Legroom will also be a problem for adults.

Trunk

While the Panda's interior appears spacious, it only holds 225 liters of luggage, which is 26 liters less than the Škoda Citigo can take. You can move the rear row forward to create 260 liters of volume, but this will deprive passengers of legroom. It's also a little annoying that you have to pay extra for this split seat, but otherwise the trunk is practical enough, the rear door opens wide, and luggage has to be thrown only over a low barrier.

Reliability and security

The Fiat Panda received just 4 stars in the Euro NCAP tests, which is disappointing in a market where most newcomers have a full 5-star rating. One of the reasons for this is that ESP was offered as an option at the time of the evaluation back in late 2011, but this problem was immediately resolved, and in early 2012 the feature became standard on all models.

Adult passengers and children in the tests are gaining 82% and 63%. For comparison: Renault Twingo scores 78% and 81%, Hyundai i10 scores 79% and 80%, and Volkswagen up! - 89 and 80%.

Over the years, Fiat has struggled to shake off its reputation as a cars with poor build quality and poor reliability, and the Panda doesn't seem to be as durable as its immediate competitors. But because the car is relatively simple from a technical standpoint, there isn't much that could go wrong, a point that seems to have been confirmed by strong scores in the 2015 Auto Express Driver Power Satisfaction Survey.

Of the 200 best Fiat Panda models, it ranked 52nd in the reliability category, and 88th in build quality. For low operating costs, the car was rated 20th. It received an average score in almost every metric, except for seat comfort, where the model only finished 170th.

Guarantee

Fiat Panda is praised by car owners for having a 3-year warranty for 100 thousand kilometers, which is on par with most competitors. However, the Kia Picanto and Hyundai i10 leave it in the shade, offering 7-year 100,000-mile packages and 5-year unlimited packages, respectively. Toyota Aygo comes with a 5-year 160,000 km warranty.

Service

The fixed price for the Fiat Panda, according to the owners, allows you to distribute maintenance costs on a monthly basis. Prices vary by mileage and usage, but are competitive with other city cars.

Review of Fiat Panda 2017: appearance of the model, interior, specifications, security systems, prices and equipment. At the end of the article - a video review of the Fiat Panda 2017!

During its more than 35-year history, the car has sold more than 7 million copies around the world and managed to gain fame as one of the most reliable, roomy and stylish A-class hatchbacks. And don't let the somewhat anime-like appearance of the novelty fool you, the Fiat Panda 2017 is a serious, practical and dynamic enough car that can satisfy the needs of most residents of the metropolis. In comparison with its predecessor, the machine has increased in size, received a fresher exterior and a modernized interior, which has become even more “adult” and ergonomic.

The appearance of the Fiat Panda 2017

The front part of the body is represented by neat and friendly optics of the head light, stylish stripes running lights, as well as a massive bumper, in the central part of which there is a practical oval air intake, and along the edges - small round foglights. The embossed hood, plastic inserts that protect the paintwork from damage and unique wheel disks R14-15.

The profile of the car pleases the eye with large doorways, massive wheel arches, a flat roof line and square windows neatly fitted into the rear door pillars.

The external dimensions of the urban hatchback are:

• Length- 3.653 m;
• Width- 1.643 m (1.882 m with side mirrors);
• Height- 1.551 m.
• Wheelbase length equals 2.3 m.

Interior decoration Panda

The driver's seat is presented in a stylish dashboard, represented by three square instrument wells, and almost the same square multifunctional steering wheel. At the top of the central dashboard is a color display of the UconnectTM multimedia system, and directly below it is a pair of air duct deflectors and an audio and information system control unit.

The picture is completed by a stylish and original microclimate control unit and a gear knob located on a small “lip” and power window control buttons.

The second-row seats can theoretically accommodate three riders, but due to the high transmission tunnel and the small width of the car, two passengers are preferable here.

A nice bonus was the possibility of longitudinal movement of the second-row sofa (maximum 160 mm), which allows you to increase the luggage volume from 225 to 260 liters. If necessary, it is possible to fold the backrests rear seats(60:40) and get up to 870 liters of loading space, however, you can’t count on a flat floor.

To transport long items, the manufacturer has provided the possibility of folding the back of the front passenger seat, which allows you to transport items over 2 meters long. We also note that in the cabin there are 14 different niches and pockets for small things, and this is not counting the folding tables located in the backs of the seats of the front riders.

Specifications Fiat Panda 2017

The line of power units is presented:

1. The base 4-cylinder 1.2-liter gasoline engine, generating 69 "horses" and equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission. With such an engine, acceleration from 0 to 100 takes 14.2 seconds, and maximum speed is 164 km/h. Fuel consumption in mixed mode is 6.5 liters for every 100 km of the route.
2. An innovative 0.9-liter TwinAir petrol engine producing 78 or 85 hp, as well as a 6-speed manual transmission. Depending on the power of the power unit, the car picks up the first hundred in 10.2 (10.5) seconds, and also allows you to develop a maximum of 177 km / h. Average consumption fuel at the same time varies between 4.1-4.3 l / 100 km.
3. 1.3-liter diesel engine Multijet for 95 "mares", accelerating the car to 100 km / h in 11 seconds. and allowing you to reach a high-speed "ceiling" of 182 km / h. This engine has excellent efficiency, consuming only 3.6 l / 100 km in mixed driving mode.

In the European market, the car is presented with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The steering is represented by a hydraulic booster and has a proprietary "City" mode, which makes it easier to drive a car in parking lots and narrow streets. Braking is handled by disc brakes, optionally ventilated at the front.

Safety Fiat Panda 2017

• 4 airbags;
• Anti-lock braking system;
• EBD+BAS systems;
• Assistant at the start downhill;
• Isofix mounts for child seats;
• City Brake Control system, which prevents frontal collisions when driving at speeds up to 30 km / h;
• Three-point belts with pretensioner system;
• Central locking.

Options and price Fiat Panda 2017

• Steel wheels R14;
• Radio with two speakers;
• Height-adjustable steering wheel;
• Air conditioner;
• Front power windows;
• Anti-lock, as well as EBD + BAS systems;
• Assistant at the beginning of the ride downhill;
• 4 airbags;
• Front head restraints;
• Isofix mounts;
• Disc brakes and pretensioner belts.

• Alloy wheels R15;
• Rear head restraints;
• Remote door opening system;
• Audio system with CD/Mp3 support, Bluetooth and two (four) speakers;
• Fog lights;
• Steering wheel trim in genuine leather;
• Protective pads on the side of the body;
• Roof rails;
• Climate control;
• City Brake Control system and other equipment.

Conclusion

Fiat Panda 2017 has been and remains one of the most stylish and roomy cars in the class, with good dynamics, wide possibilities for interior transformation and excellent economy. True, the stumbling block is the high price, which can scare off a certain circle of potential buyers.

Test drive Fiat Panda 2017:

Fiat Panda - the legendary three- or five-door four-seater Class A hatchback, produced by Fiat since 1980. Since 2011, the third generation of the car has been produced, and according to tradition, since 2013 it is planned to release an all-wheel drive version of the Panda, which will replace the off-road version of the second generation.
The third generation Fiat Panda 4X4 was shown at the Paris Salon in October 2012. And now information has appeared that allows us to draw certain conclusions about the exterior, interior and technical characteristics of the new small SUV produced in Europe.

The exterior of the "all-wheel drive Panda" of the third generation, in general terms, is practically no different from the version of a conventional hatchback - all the same body type, which makes it possible to attribute the model rather than to two-volume hatchbacks, but to three-volume minivans. Universalism and blurring of lines between classes can be traced in the design of the "Italian bear cub". The main difference is that in order to protect the body of the new off-road vehicle, during its operation in difficult road conditions, the designers of Centro Stile Fiat have developed a "body kit" around the entire perimeter of the car.

In addition to the traditional colors that the 4x2 version has, the off-road "Italian bear cub" will also have two unique body colors. The first is Toscana Green (metallic green). A car with this coloring looks like a Soviet army UAZ 469 (Bobik) and is clearly designed for men. The second color is Sicilia Orange (pastel orange). This color for women is bright, groovy and cheerful, attracting attention. We also note the presence of aluminum inserts that complement the overall picture.

The interior of the third generation Panda 4X4 is also practically the same as the 2WD version. We only note the new green color in the interior decoration (for example, a green frame around the front panel), the presence of a large compartment for storing various small items. The fabric of the seats is also different, which will be made in three versions (green, beige and orange). When finishing doors, inserts made of leather are used.

Specifications. The main difference between this modification "4X4" from its predecessors and the version "4x2" is the presence of the "Torque on demand" system ( four-wheel drive on demand). This is the first time a non-permanent all-wheel drive system has been used (the Panda 2 4X4 Climbing used a plug-in all-wheel drive). The Torque on demand system is based on traction distribution and electronically simulated differential lock, has two differentials and electronic control clutch. In other words, the electronic unit control analyzes vehicle signals and automatic mode distributes tractive force equally to the front and rear axles, or proportionally depending on the parameters of adhesion to the road surface.

The 3rd generation SUV will be equipped with a six-speed manual transmission with a reduction gear.

For Fiat Panda 3 4x4, it is supposed to use two types of engine, which are also installed on the 4x2 version:

• The first engine is the well-proven gasoline two-cylinder U-shaped TwinAir Turbo, with a volume of 0.9 liters and a power of 85 “horses”. A feature of this engine is the simultaneous movement of the pistons in one direction. Average fuel consumption is 4.5 liters per 100 kilometers.
• The second engine is diesel engine 1.3 MultiJet II, with a volume of 1.3 liters and a capacity of 75 "horses". This engine has been used in Fiat vehicles since the end of 2009, has a fixed turbine geometry, particulate filter, which is located in close proximity to power plant. 1.3 MultiJet II fully complies with Euro 5 standards.

Both engines are equipped with a Start/Stop system that reduces engine speed when braking and driving at low speeds, shifting the transmission to neutral.

The new Fiat Panda 4X4 will be equipped as standard with the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) active safety system in conjunction with the ELD (Electronic Locking Differential) electronic differential lock system. Thanks to this, driving in difficult road conditions (snow, ice, mud, etc.) will be more comfortable and manageable. If traction is lost, the ELD system distributes traction to the wheels with the best traction. Moreover, the system works both in automatic mode and in manual mode, the button is located directly behind the gear lever. Note also that the ELD system operates at speeds below 50 km/h.

It is supposed to install alloy fifteen-inch wheels on the car, the type of tires is 175/65 R15 M + S.
Fiat Panda 3 in the 4x4 version is slightly higher than the 4x2 version and has the following parameters:

• length - 3680 mm;
• width - 1670 mm;
• height - 1600 mm;
• wheelbase - 2300 mm;
• the distance between the front wheels (front track) -1410 mm;
• the distance between the rear wheels (rear track) - 1400 mm.

The suspension here performs two main functions. The first function is to provide comfortable movement, as in the 2WD version, the second function is to provide off-road in complete off-road conditions. Therefore, the front suspension is a classic MacPherson independent, the rear suspension is a torsion beam, which has a higher specification than the rear torsion beam semi-independent suspension in the previous generation.
Of the additional equipment for the Panda 4x4, we note the presence of: climate control, an electric rear-view mirror, a central lock with remote control and head restraints in the rear seat.

There is no specific information about the price of the new one and the trim levels of the novelty.

The history of the second generation Panda began at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show. Then the four-seater Gingo prototype was presented to the public, almost ready to get on the conveyor. However, the concern Renault opposed this name. It, according to the French, is too consonant with the name of their Twingo model. So the car went into the series under a different name, long known to all Europeans - Panda, although the car has nothing in common with its predecessor. The car of the first generation, the production of which began in 1980 and, with minor changes, lasted on the assembly line until 2003.

Panda II has become more modern, more spacious, better equipped, but most importantly, it has a modification with permanent all-wheel drive. A unique case in class A! Apparently, under the impression of such a set of important consumer qualities, "packed" in a stylish compact body, European automotive journalists awarded Panda the title "Car of the Year - 2004".

Externally, the car is peculiar: a sharp rise windshield, a high body with an abundance of longitudinal ribs that are now fashionable, chopped off “stern”, massive, almost square block headlights, a large glazing area and original windows in the rear pillar. Panda is compact, but it gives the impression of a kind of microvan - mainly because of the high roof. The same height adds a share of comfort inside: even if it is cramped in the knees, if you climbed back, there is plenty of space above your head.

Fiat Panda is the most suitable car for city traffic. It's small and compact, which is great for parking, is fast and agile, and doesn't feel compromised at all in overall driving dynamics. And most importantly - this car economical: it is designed to reduce fuel consumption.

Inside, everything is made of budget materials. But the Italians managed to beat this budget due to a very original performance. The location of the gear lever on the console allows the driver to feel comfortable when driving. The seat and steering wheel can be adjusted to your desired position. But there is no question of any servos, even optional ones. This would significantly increase the price, while the first and indisputable advantage of Panda is relatively low cost. Seat adjustments are standard - changing the tilt of the backrest and longitudinal movement. A height-adjustable headrest and seat cushion can be ordered at an additional cost. The backs of the front seats, unlike the pillows, have a clear lateral support, but the rear sofa lacks relief. Despite the rather limited range of longitudinal movement and the fact that the steering column can only move vertically, a person of any size can be accommodated in the driver's seat. Thanks to the high landing (not quite typical for similar machines) the road is in full view.

With its size Panda, of course, is designed for four. But as an option, dealers also offer a five-seater option - for a fee, a central headrest and an additional seat belt will be installed on the back sofa.

Trunk Panda can not be called capacious. It is rather intended for transporting a couple of bulky packages from the supermarket - no more. To transport larger loads, you will have to fold the back of the rear sofa, and since it only folds in its entirety, more than two people in this case will not be taken away by a car. By the way, in the list of additional equipment there are two options for rear seats with a split back, one of which provides for longitudinal adjustment, but you will have to pay a lot for this option.

There are only three engines in the Panda powertrain range. The simplest of them is the basic 1.1-liter “eight-valve”, which develops 54 hp. In addition to it, a more powerful 60-horsepower 1.2-liter engine can be installed on the car. Europe is now experiencing a diesel boom, so the Italians could not do without a small 1.3-liter Multijet diesel power unit with a capacity of 70 “horses”, developing 145 Nm of torque already at 1500 rpm. Panda with this 16-valve turbodiesel has every chance of becoming very popular. Firstly, due to efficiency - 5.4 liters per 100 km in the city and only 3.7 liters on the highway. And secondly, thanks to the extended service intervals - oil and filter changes every 30,000 km, and the engine resource is 250,000 km.

Unfortunately, in our country Fiat with such power unit is not supplied and most likely will not be supplied. The only Panda variant to date, which can be officially purchased in the capital's car dealerships, is a car with a 1.2-liter engine aggregated with a 5-speed "mechanics" (in Europe it can also be aggregated with a sequential automatic transmission DualogiC).

The Panda II is equipped with a dual-drive electric power steering - in the usual version, the steering wheel turns with just one finger. But after activating the "City" mode (by a button on the center console), the steering wheel becomes completely weightless. Naturally, in this case, there can be no feedback speech, so “City” is recommended to be used only in the parking lot.

The suspension has a design that has been proven over the years: the front is MacPherson strut, and the rear is semi-independent with a torsion beam. On a flat surface, the car obediently holds the road, copes well with most of the bumps.

The minimum equipment offers: front power windows, central locking, immobilizer, branded dual-mode Dualdrive electric power steering, driver airbag, and ABS with EBD. Air conditioning, side and window airbags, a front passenger airbag, parking sensors and even an ESP stabilization system can be ordered additionally. On more "advanced" cars, you can install: a decent audio system with a subwoofer, a Skydome sliding roof or air conditioner with air filtration system.

There is also an all-wheel drive version of the Panda. It differs from the banal front-wheel drive version with larger wheels in width and diameter. The suspension has become higher - more powerful shock absorbers and springs. Ground clearance- 160 mm. The rear suspension has completely gained trailing arms and, consequently, independence.

The all-wheel drive system developed by GKN is designed in such a way that in normal mode 98% of the torque is supplied to the front wheels. However, as soon as the load on the front wheels changes, the viscous coupling is activated and the four-wheel drive is turned on. The viscous coupling itself is located at the rear and is combined with the rear differential into one unit.

Rear-wheel drive threw a hundredweight with a decent tail to the car's own weight, plus hefty friction losses inside the transmission. And the engine is offered the same as for the front-wheel drive version. It turned out that, along with kilograms, the car also acquired unnecessary seconds to the coveted "hundreds". But in the winter and country road Panda 4x4 in his element. Interesting fact: Panda 4x4 shipped immediately on winter tires. Not studded, but European-style winter - marked M + S.

By the way, the first generation Panda, created a quarter of a century ago by Giorgio Giugiaro, also had a 4x4 version. The Fiat Panda 4x4 Trekking was born in 1983, three years after the debut of the very first Panda. All-wheel drive transmission was introduced by the Australian company Steyr-Daimler-Puch. The car was equipped with a liter engine (to be precise, its volume was 999 milliliters), which developed 50 hp. The first generation Panda 4x4 Trekking was much simpler than the current one. For example, instead of independent rear suspension she had a hard bridge. One of the curious features of the car was a very short first gear, thanks to which the Panda 4x4 not only could easily move off-road, but also fired from traffic lights in the city.

The Italians managed to create a great car. Not too hot, but cheerful, carefree and cheerful. Stylish appearance, low price, efficiency, maneuverability, originality - the key to the success of the little Panda.