Looking for a vehicle with serious off-road ability yet with eco-credentials? It’s a fact of life that some motorists need a 4×4 to cope with the terrain through which they need to drive. But for those country-dwellers who are counting their carbon footprint, Fiat have a solution to a difficult dilemma. A stylish new version of Fiat’s top-selling Panda has just gone on sale in the UK – offering a combination of serious 4×4 potential with manoeuvrable city car know-how and low emissions.
When it comes to sure-footed driving – on and off-road – this mini-SUV excels in all departments. Available now through Fiat’s 168-strong dealer network, the new Panda Cross looks set to appeal to a wide range of fun-loving, cost-conscious and environmentally concerned drivers.
Combining the exceptional driveability of Fiat’s widely acclaimed 1.3 16v MultiJet turbodiesel engine with the proven permanent four-wheel drive system of the Panda 4×4, the rugged new Panda Cross comes with a host of significant style features.
New round light units front and rear, chunky side protection strips in contrasting colours, roof-bars, 15-inch alloy wheels and new bumpers all come as standard; while inside, the functional style continues with special two-tone interior trims.
The new Panda Cross permanent four-wheel drive system has a viscous coupling and an electronic differential lock which ensures extraordinary off-road performance in low-grip situations. Meanwhile, the MacPherson front and independent rear suspension ensures exceptional wheel-to-ground contact and remarkable passenger comfort over any surface.
Fiat’s frugal MultiJet turbodiesel engine gives smooth power delivery, low fuel consumption and emissions, together with top build quality. It produces 70 bhp and an impressive torque of 145 Nm at just 1500 rpm, which is ideal for off-road use.
“The special style treatment we have given the Panda Cross sets it aside from rivals,” says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat UK. “But this is not just a fantastic-looking car – it’s also highly versatile and great fun to drive. We are delighted to have it in the UK.”
The car’s standard equipment list includes ESP, air conditioning, radio and MP3-compatible CD player with steering wheel audio controls, and electric power steering. One new colour is available, Rain Dance Green, which joins the existing Goa Orange, Cumbia Beige and Crossover Black.
As with any Panda, fuel consumption and emissions are exceptionally low. Panda Cross returns 42.1 mpg on the urban cycle, 67.3 mpg extra-urban, and 54.3 combined. The CO2 figure is 136 g/km.
At £11,995 on-the-road, the highly-competitive Panda Cross represents notable value for money and makes it the most inexpensive new diesel 4×4 available in the UK.
