Fiat refreshes Panda with 4x4 and Cross models

Having been unveiled all the way back in 2011, the third generation of the Fiat Panda has made a comeback in South Africa, with 4x4 and Cross derivatives now available to local drivers.

The arrival of the Panda Cross has prompted Fiat South Africa to refresh the model and its lineup. In regards to pre-existing qualities, the physical dimensions of the mini-SUV have remained unchanged, with the Italian carmaker continuing to offer the Easy and Lounge trim lev- els. Starting at R184 900, all Panda models come equipped with Fiat’s 0.9-litre TwinAir turbopetrol engine, the same engine used in the 500 supermini, and which produces 63kW and 145Nm of torque, with the range-topping Cross variant doing with slightly more power at 66kW.

Power is sent to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, with 4x4 variants opting for a six-speed manual to send power to all four wheels.

Safety features include four airbags, and standard feature include front electric windows, and remote central locking. The 4x4 Cross, priced at R249 900, sports major design additions to the exterior of the car, which include 15” alloy rims, and redesigned bumpers featuring skid plates and revised fog lights.

Also included on this variant is a drive mode selector, hill descent control, as well as electronic lock differential.

The Fiat Panda comes standard with a three-year/ 100 000km warranty, and a three-year/100 000km service plan.