Fiat Shocks with New Grande Panda That Preserves the Manual Transmission | Carscoops

      The Italian subcompact hatchback without electric power looks just like the mild-hybrid version until you enter the interior.

      9 hours ago

      by Thanos Pappas

      The Fiat Grande Panda, now available with only an internal combustion engine, joins the offerings of the mild-hybrid and electric variants.

      Equipped with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine, it produces 99 hp and 205 Nm of torque.

      Power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission.

      A year after its introduction as a subcompact hatch with electric and mild-hybrid options, the Fiat Grande Panda is now offering a more traditional choice for those who prefer to stick with combustion engines. Stellantis has launched a petrol-only model, and in what feels like a daring choice these days, it comes with a manual transmission for those who enjoy shifting gears instead of selecting drive modes.

      Review: Jeep Avenger Demonstrates That ICE and Manual Options Remain Attractive

      The first non-electrified Grande Panda is powered by the familiar turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine found in several Stellantis vehicles, including the closely related Citroen C3. It outputs 99 hp (74 kW / 100 PS) and 205 Nm (151.2 lb-ft) of torque, featuring Start&Stop technology. On paper, this makes it the weakest Grande Panda model, positioned below the 109 hp mild-hybrid and the 111 hp fully electric versions.

      Preserving the Manual

      More significantly, the gasoline engine is solely paired with a “refined” six-speed manual transmission, while the dual-clutch automatic is reserved for the mild-hybrid model. As with the rest of the lineup, power is directed to the front wheels. Fiat has stated that an all-wheel-drive version is in the works, but it will likely incorporate an electrified rear axle (either mild-hybrid or fully electric).

      In terms of appearance, the gasoline-powered Grande Panda looks the same as its electrified counterparts, aside from the absence of hybrid or EV branding. The exhaust pipe is hidden beneath the rear bumper, just like on the Grande Panda Hybrid. The interior, however, varies as the center console features the manual gearbox stick, which is obviously absent from the other two variants.

      Trim Levels and Features

      Regardless of the powertrain selected, the Grande Panda is available in three trims: the base Pop model, the mid-range Icon, and the top-tier La Prima.

      More: Next-Gen Fiat Panda Expected in 2030, to be Launched Alongside Grande Panda

      The entry-level version comes with black 16-inch steel wheels and lacks an infotainment display, combining a standard 10-inch digital instrument cluster with a smartphone dock. The Icon trim adds full LED headlights and taillights, updated hubcaps, six speakers, and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen.

      Lastly, the La Prima features 17-inch wheels and comes standard with auto climate control, a Bambox dashboard, and a rearview camera, among other amenities. The color options include seven shades: Gelato White, Cinema Black, Passione Red, Acqua Azure, Limone Yellow, Lago Blue, and Luna Bronze.

      Pricing Considerations

      The price for the petrol-powered Grande Panda has yet to be revealed, but it is anticipated to be lower than the mild-hybrid variant, which is currently priced at €16,950 ($19,700) in Italy during promotions. For reference, the Citroen C3 with the same engine starts at €15,900 ($18,500), while its mild-hybrid version is listed at €20,950 ($24,300).