Elektrische Stadthelden im Vergleich: Der Fiat Grande Panda tritt gegen den Hyundai Inster an

The Fiat Grande Panda versus Hyundai Inster: A Showdown of Urban Crossovers

Fiat's compact contender is set to join the fray by the end of 2024, ready to contend in the competitive market, including taking on the Hyundai Inster…

For a long time, there was a noticeable void in the segment of small, budget-friendly electric vehicles. But now, the tide is turning. After years dominated by the introduction of larger, pricier models that weren't necessarily accessible to all budgets, we're starting to see a shift towards the electrification of urban vehicles.

Vehicles that thrive in city environments yet possess the capability to venture beyond city limits. They offer convenient charging durations and sufficient battery life for a weekend getaway.

Fiat's Large Panda Model

Hyundai Introduction

The Fiat Grande Panda, which was unveiled on July 11 and is set to hit dealership showrooms by year's end, is one example. Similarly, the Hyundai Inster, a sub-four meter crossover, has also just made its public debut. As we anticipate the opportunity to conduct on-road testing, these vehicles are currently going head-to-head in a static comparison based on their specifications.

Exterior

Compact dimensions require a suitable body design to ensure the interior space isn't compromised. It appears that both competitors have managed to achieve this effectively. The Fiat Grande Panda features a boxy, angular design reminiscent of Giorgetto Giugiaro's original Fiat Panda, with a roof that runs parallel to the ground and a nearly vertical rear window.

Numerous features, particularly the expansive cladding with plastic protective strips along the profiles and roof rails, categorize it as an urban crossover vehicle. The overall design is very distinctive and not at all irregular: The solid grille adorned with square patterns gives the Italian model a unique personality. The scattered Fiat and Panda emblems and logos throughout evoke a sense of nostalgia.

The Hyundai Inster doesn't feature overly complex lines either, but instead, similar to the Grande Panda, it boasts a front end dominated by pixel-like lights. These lights are designed to be slimmer compared to those of its rival. Additionally, the vehicle includes sizable round headlights within the lower front area. Crossover features are also present, including plastic protective panels, a skid plate, and roof racks.

Interior

The Fiat Grande Panda boasts over a decade of heritage, with numerous nods to the original Panda model. This is not due to the simplistic design of the cabin, but rather because of features in the dashboard that are characteristic of the Panda from the 1980s.

Hard plastic is the undisputed material of choice in this setting due to cost-effectiveness, yet it appears to be well-crafted. Despite its compact size and affordability – which we'll delve into shortly – the vehicle doesn't compromise on technology. It boasts a 10-inch digital display for the driver and a 10.25-inch screen for the infotainment system. The Grande Panda also doesn't lack in modern amenities, offering wireless charging for smartphones, automatic climate control, and multiple USB ports.

Regarding the space available, the nearly four-meter overall length is well utilized. The rear seating area provides ample room for passengers, while the trunk capacity is 361 liters.

Interior of the Fiat Grande Panda

The Hyundai Inster also comes equipped with advanced technology within its cabin, featuring two 10.25-inch screens that display information and entertainment options. Moreover, there are multiple physical buttons available to manage the automatic climate control and other features. The traditional design is primarily made up of plastics which nonetheless have a quality feel to them. Additionally, USB ports and 12-volt outlets are included for convenience.

At this time, the Hyundai Inster has been approved to accommodate four passengers, who can revel in ample space thanks to a sliding rear seat. Consequently, the trunk capacity can be adjusted from 238 to 351 liters.

The interior of the Hyundai Inster

Engines

The engineering under the hood presents a different story for the Fiat Grande Panda and the Hyundai Inster, as they are quite distinct from each other in terms of their engine capabilities, despite their similarities in design and interior features.

The Grande Panda is set to hit the market with two powertrain options: a fully electric motor delivering 113 horsepower paired with a 44 kWh battery, or a 1.2-liter mild hybrid engine producing 100 horsepower, coupled with an automatic transmission. Notably, there won't be a version powered solely by an internal combustion engine. The electric variant of the Fiat Grande Panda boasts a maximum range of up to 320 kilometers, and it supports fast charging with direct current at a peak rate of up to 100 kW.

Fiat's Large Panda Model

Hyundai Model Overview

The Hyundai Inster, on the other hand, exclusively utilizes electric engines. It is available in two models: one with 97 horsepower and a 42 kWh battery, and another with 115 horsepower and a 49 kWh battery. These variants offer a driving range of 300 kilometers and 355 kilometers, respectively. The peak charging power for the Inster is slightly elevated at 120 kW.

Hyundai has decided not to provide a pure internal combustion engine nor a hybrid option. However, there is potential for the compact Korean car to be modified to include Casper's 1.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine in the future, although this is not currently in the company's immediate plans.

Pricing

This leads us to what is likely the most crucial factor in the purchasing process: What is the price tag on these compact electric vehicles?

The cost for the Fiat Grande Panda has not been formally announced, but during the unveiling press conference, there was mention of a price tag under 19,000 Euros for the hybrid model and 24,900 Euros for the electric version. This pricing strategy places it just below the critical 25,000 Euro mark, similar to many of its rivals.

Just like the Hyundai Inster, this compact car from Korea is also expected to come with a price tag below 25,000 euros for its 42-kWh model.

Learn more about the new Grande Panda

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