Everybody loves the Fiat Panda. And why’s that, you ask? Well, it’s practical, cheap and bursting with charm. However, the latest version of the supermini is getting on a bit, so Fiat has decided to give Panda a thorough makeover.
Coinciding with the Panda’s 40th Anniversary (don’t worry, it’s been through a few iterations), the new for 2021 model gets a light redesign consisting of a new front bumper, reprofiled skirts and a shiny set of alloy wheels. A new seat of head of tail lights complete the refreshed look.
The updates are pretty extensive throughout the Panda range. The big news here is the arrival of a new mild-hybrid option, which takes the form of a 1.0-litre petrol engine developing an adorably small 69bhp. It’s connected to an electric motor and battery system to start the engine when stop-start is engaged and will give you an electric push when pulling away from a set of traffic lights. According to Fiat, it reduces emissions and saves fuel by 30% compared to non-electrified models.
There are six trim levels to choose from, kicking off with the standard Panda mild-hybrid at £11,895m, followed but the City Life at £12,595, which adds smartphone connectivity and a mount for your device in the dashboard. Then there’s the £16,295 Wild which is pretty much exactly the same, albeit with an all-wheel drive system and a more powerful 0.9-litre TwinAir engine.
Meanwhile, the £13,295 Sport gets 16-inch wheels, red brake callipers and optional matte grey paint. If you’re after something a bit more rugged, well, at least in terms of looks, then you’ll want the £13,995 City Cross mild-hybrid, but there’s also a four-wheel drive variant available at £17,995.
Orders for the new Panda range are expected to open in the coming weeks.
Keyword: Fiat Panda 2021: lovable supermini gets updated with mild-hybrid engines