Vom Stadtflitzer zum kleinen SUV: Der Fiat Grande Panda im detaillierten Vergleich mit dem klassischen Fiat Panda

Comparing the Fiat Grande Panda with the Fiat Panda

We'll explore what sets these two models apart

The Fiat Grande Panda signifies a monumental shift in the saga of the iconic Italian compact car, evolving to become, as its name suggests, larger and somewhat SUV-esque.

The Grande Panda, which has just been showcased through initial official photos but with scant further details regarding size and engine specifics, is gearing up to join the existing Panda lineup that has been on sale since 2012 and is expected to continue production at least until 2027.

Image Gallery: Fiat Grande Panda (2024)

Even with the limited details at hand, one can draw an initial comparison between the Fiat Grande Panda and the existing Fiat Panda "in theory," by considering the data available for the new Citroën C3. The Grande Panda's sibling vehicle shares the same Smart Car platform.

Styling

Positioning the Grande Panda alongside the Panda, the differences in design age and distinctive styling are immediately apparent. The latest Fiat model embraces a square, contemporary shape, offering a subtle nod to the original 1980 Panda generation.

Fiat's Large Panda Model

The make and model

On the other hand, the present-day Panda's roundness, including the special edition Pandina, is a product of the "Squircle" concept – a blend of circle and square – as envisioned by the former head of design, Roberto Giolito.

The Large Fiat Panda

The car model in

The interior design details of the Grande Panda have not been disclosed yet, but it is expected to undergo a significant transformation, particularly in the dashboard which is anticipated to have a straightforward and linear design similar to the new Citroën C3. Nevertheless, it will still feature the distinctive trim elements that are characteristic of the latest Fiat models, similar to those found in the Fiat 600.

The interior of the Citroen C3 vehicle.

Interior of the Fiat Panda

Dimensions

In addressing the dimensions, which is a crucial aspect to grasp the differences between the Grande Panda and the standard Panda, a singular measurement is telling – that is the overall length. The Grande Panda stretches to 3.99 meters, whereas the Panda and Panda Cross measure shorter at 3.65 and 3.68 meters respectively.

In essence, the Grande Panda surpasses its length by 29 to 32 centimeters, a difference largely attributed to its wheelbase measuring roughly 2.50 meters, significantly exceeding the Panda's wheelbase of 2.30 meters.

Side View of the Fiat Grande Panda

Side View of the Fiat Panda

The Grande Panda is expected to have a wider build than the Panda, with a width of nearly 1.75 meters compared to the Panda's 1.64 meters, though the height is likely to be only slightly more.

Among the unofficial but expected features of the Grande Panda is an expansion of the trunk space. Following the pattern of the new C3, it's anticipated to increase to roughly 310 liters, up from the Panda's current 225 liters.

Take a look at the Fiat Grande Panda in this clip

Engines

There's a notable distinction in engine choices between the standard Panda and the Grande Panda, with the latter available as a fully electric model. It's powered by a solo electric motor, delivering 113 horsepower, linked to the front wheels.

On the other hand, the Grande Panda Hybrid appears poised to replace the Panda's 70 HP three-cylinder 1.0 mild hybrid with a more powerful 101 HP 1.2 mild hybrid variant.

Just as a reminder, the latest Panda model comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission paired with the 1.0-liter mild hybrid engine.

Price Comparison

The cost of the Fiat Grande Panda has not been disclosed yet, not even a ballpark figure. However, by examining the pricing of its counterparts, the Citroën C3 and the Opel Frontera, we can infer that the Italian electric vehicle may be priced somewhere between €23,900 and €29,900, potentially hovering around €25,000.

The situation is different with the Grande Panda Mild Hybrid when compared to the Frontera Hybrid 1.2 100 horsepower model, which is larger and has a starting price of at least 24,500 euros (as opposed to the non-electrified C3 1.2 gasoline at 14,990 euros). Assuming a competitive pricing for the Italian car, one could envision a starting retail price of around 20,000 euros, whereas the Panda is priced at only 15,500 euros.

Competitors

The Fiat Panda is set to continue competing with the limited number of remaining A-segment city cars for a few more years. Its main rivals include the Hyundai i10, Kia Picanto, Mitsubishi Space Star, Renault Twingo, Suzuki Ignis, and Toyota Aygo X.

The make and model

Ignis by Suzuki

Toyota's new model, Aygo

On the other hand, the Fiat Grande Panda will compete with a range of compact electric newcomers such as the Dacia Spring, Hyundai Inster, and the Renault 5, which occupy a slightly different place in the market.

Grande Panda Model by Fiat

The Electric Version of the Renault 5 E-T

Jeep's New

Of course, Stellantis will also enter the competition with its range of hybrid and electric vehicles, including the previously mentioned Citroen C3, along with the Peugeot 208, Opel Corsa, Jeep Avenger, and Fiat 600.

Or perhaps a mini instead?

Most Read

MOST RECENT ARTICLES

LATEST ARTICLES

About This Article