Third generation Fiat Panda

Since the arrival of the über-trendy Fiat 500 in 2007, the closely-related Panda has been somewhat overshadowed. Yet understandably many people still prefer the Panda, due mainly to its affordability, five-door practicality and unassuming nature.

Perhaps that view will become even more widespread with the arrival of the all-new Panda, which debuts at this month’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

Fiat Panda (2012) Side

Although still unmistakeably a Panda, it’s a little larger than its predecessor: length is up from 354 to 365 cm (11’11”), width increases from 158 to 164 cm (5’4”), and height rises slightly from 154 to 155 cm (5’1”). The benefit is extra cabin space, and it’s claimed that the new baby Fiat is a full five-seat car.

The interior also promises more flexibility. As well as being split, the rear bench now also slides, while the front passenger seat folds forward to form a table. The dashboard design incorporates a large storage pocket, a feature that harks back to the original 1980 Panda.

Fiat Panda (2012) Dashboard

Fiat Panda (2012) Interior

Leading the engine line-up is a pair of 0.9 litre TwinAir two-cylinder petrol motors. Buyers will be able to opt for either a 64 bhp (47 kW / 65 PS) normally-aspirated version, or one with a turbocharger that produces 83 bhp (62 kW / 85 PS).

The other choices are a 68 bhp (50 kW / 69 PS) 1.2 litre Fire four-cylinder petrol engine, plus a 73 bhp (55 kW / 75 PS) 1.3 litre MultiJet 2 turbodiesel. Performance, economy and emissions figures have all yet to be released.

Later on, two dual-fuel engines will be added to the range. The TwinAir Turbo Natural Power runs on petrol or methane, and it’s expected to produce 78 bhp (58 kW / 80 PS). Alternatively, the 68 bhp (50 kW / 69 PS) 1.2 EasyPower can use petrol or LPG, but neither of these are expected to make it to the UK or Ireland.

Fiat Panda (2012) Front Side

Fiat Panda (2012) Rear Side

At launch, all Pandas will be front-wheel drive but, in keeping with a tradition established by the two previous generations, it’s intended that an all-wheel drive version will follow soon after.

UK sales of the new Fiat Panda are due to begin next spring. Prices are still to be confirmed.

Related posts:
Fiat 500 TwinAir models
Top 10: Efficient petrol cars
Top 10: Cheapest new cars
Fiat 500 TwinAir arrives

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