Fiat has shifted gears with the launch of its Grande Panda Hybrid, blending Italian flair with practical urban smarts. This fresh offering isn’t just another hatchback; it’s a cheeky wink to the brand’s heritage while cruising into the future of accessible electrification.
Born in Turin’s Mirafiori design hub, the Grande Panda Hybrid is built on Stellantis’ Smart Car Platform, ready to tackle city streets or weekend getaways. At 3.99 meters long, it’s compact enough for tight parking but surprises with space for five and a 412-liter boot — ideal for school runs or a stash of braai supplies.
We have some models of the existing Panda on offer - click here to view
Under the bonnet, the 1,2-litre turbo-charged engine teams up with a 48V battery and a slick eDCT gearbox, dishing out 82 kW. The hybrid setup lets drivers glide silently in electric mode for up to 1 km at low speeds—perfect for sneaking out early without waking the neighbourhood. Fiat’s ‘easy drive’ ethos shines with features like e-parking and a fuel-sipping Miller Cycle engine, proving eco-friendly doesn’t mean dull.
The Grande Panda’s boxy charm gets a modern makeover. Think LED headlights inspired by arcade games, blacked-out pillars, and bold ‘Panda’ lettering on the doors. Inside, a vibrant Blu Tasmania cabin pops with yellow accents, while sustainable touches like bamboo-fibre dashboards and recycled plastic trim (from 140 beverage cartons per car) keep it green without sacrificing style.
Choose from three flavours: Pop, Icon, or La Prima. The Pop keeps it simple with a 10-inch digital cluster and smartphone connectivity, while the Icon spices things up with a 10,25-inch touchscreen and optional tech, style, or winter packs. The La Primarolls out the red carpet with 17-inch alloys, premium finishes, and all the bells and whistles, including heated seats for those chilly Highveld mornings.
All trims come kitted with driver aids like lane-keeping assist and collision warnings. Top-spec models add parking sensors and a rearview camera, because parallel parking in Joburg traffic shouldn’t be a blood sport.
Fiat also teased a rugged Grande Panda 4x4 concept, reviving the spirit of the 1983 original. This modern take boasts an electrified rear axle, Bordeaux-red exterior and rooftop lamps for those off-grid escapes. It’s a nod to adventurers who want sustainability without ditching the thrill of a dirt road.
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Over 100 customisable add-ons let owners tweak their Panda’s personality — think roof racks for surfboards or eco-friendly side decals. Because why blend in when you can stand out?
Whether zipping through Cape Town’s CBD or exploring the Cederberg, this little Italian promises to make every drive lekker – and we await decisions on the local introduction.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
proudly CHANGECARS
