Fiat Pandina is the name of the latest special edition of the Fiat Panda, the iconic city car that has ruled the European market for over four decades. The Pandina is a cosmetic upgrade and a technological leap that makes it the most advanced and safest Panda ever. It also celebrates the love of the people for this model, which will continue to be produced in Italy until at least 2027. In this article, we will look closer at the features, specs, and prices of the Fiat Pandina and compare it with some of its main competitors in the segment.
What is the Fiat Pandina?
The Fiat Pandina is a unique series based on the Cross trim level of the current Panda, which has a rugged off-road look. Pandina is the nickname the Italian customers have always given to the Panda, showing their affection and familiarity with this car. The Pandina was unveiled on February 29, 2024, when the first Panda was presented to the President of the Italian Republic in 1980.
The Pandina is distinguished by specific details on the bodywork, such as the 'Pandina' lettering on the black covers on the lower part of the doors and the rear side windows and the Panda snout on the alloy wheel trims. It also offers new body colors, such as Mint Green, Coral Red, and Sky Blue. The dimensions and the general appearance of the Pandina are identical to the current Panda, which measures 3.69 meters long, 1.66 meters wide, 1.55 meters high, and has a 2.3-meter wheelbase.
What are the main features of the Fiat Pandina?
The Fiat Pandina is the most technological and safest Panda ever, thanks to new features available as standard or as an option on this particular series. Some of the main features are:
- A 7-inch digital instrument panel with various graphics replaces analog gauges and provides information on speed, fuel level, trip computer, and driver assistance systems.
- A 7-inch central screen for the infotainment system, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, has a wireless charging pad, a DAB radio, and a six-speaker sound system. The screen also has four touch-sensitive buttons on the sides to quickly access the main menu items.
- A new steering wheel with a design similar to that of the Tipo has physical buttons on the spokes to control the instrument and infotainment screens, as well as the driver assistance systems.
- Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) include automatic emergency braking, lane keeping, driver fatigue detection, traffic sign recognition, and cruise control. The Pandina also has an automatic high beam, six airbags, and rear parking sensors.
- A mild hybrid powertrain consists of a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine with 70 horsepower and 68 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a 12-volt belt-driven starter generator (BSG) and a six-speed manual transmission. The BSG recovers energy during braking and coasting and assists the engine during acceleration, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The Pandina has a front-wheel-drive system and can reach a top speed of 102 mph and accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 14.7 seconds. The fuel economy is rated at 53 mpg in the combined cycle, and the CO2 emissions are 88 g/km.
How much does the Fiat Pandina cost?
The Fiat Pandina will be available in Europe this summer, starting at around $24,000. This makes it one of the most expensive versions of the Panda but also one of the most complete and attractive. The Pandina will also benefit from the incentives for hybrid and electric vehicles available in many European countries, making them more affordable and convenient for customers.