The New Fiat Grande Panda Hybrid Revives the Coolness in Budget Cars | Review | Carscoops

      Fiat’s new Grande Panda introduces a fresh aesthetic and unexpected depth to the subcompact sector, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals.

      by Thanos Pappas

      PROS ›› Fun design inside and out, practicality, affordability CONS ›› Hard plastics, lacking advanced technology

      For years, Fiat has been a leader in Europe’s A-segment with its 500 and Panda models. However, its absence from the B-segment following the retirement of the Punto in 2018 left a significant void. In 2024, the launch of the Grande Panda fills that gap with an affordable supermini that merges hatchback and crossover elements.

      To clarify, the Grande Panda is not a substitute for the aging Panda (now called Pandina). That role will be taken over by a smaller Fiat model set to debut in 2030. Measuring 3,999 mm (157.4 inches) in length, the Grande Panda shares its platform with the Citroen C3 and competes with other budget-friendly crossover hatchbacks like the Dacia Sandero Stepway.

      We recently experienced Fiat’s latest addition to the Panda lineup to evaluate its offerings and its place in Fiat’s contemporary lineup.

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      *Manufacturer

      Like most small hatchbacks and SUVs from the Stellantis brand, the Grande Panda comes with gasoline, mild-hybrid, and fully electric powertrains. Currently, all variants are front-wheel drive, although an AWD model is expected soon.

      Our test model is the 2025 Grande Panda Hybrid in the premium La Prima trim, presented in Lago Blue.

      Styling That Combines Nostalgia with Modernity

      The Grande Panda’s design merits praise for successfully merging nods to the original 1980s Panda with contemporary styling elements. Its boxy shape, elevated height, and plastic cladding create a crossover aesthetic enhanced by the aluminum-style skid plates and 17-inch alloy wheels found on the high-end La Prima trim.

      Upon closer inspection, the vehicle is filled with subtle design touches. The pixelated LED lights and grille reflect the windows of Fiat’s Lingotto factory in Turin. The word “Panda” is inscribed along the doors, replicated in 3D on the tailgate, with the vintage striped Fiat badge making a surprising return on the fenders, C-pillars, and rear bumper.

      During my time with the Grande Panda, I was struck by the number of people admiring it on the street, instantly recognizing it as a Fiat. This indicates that effective design serves as a strong marketing tool for a brand, even when based on shared foundations (which we’ll elaborate on later).

      Fun and Functional Interior

      The lively atmosphere continues inside, which feels far more vibrant than its budget pricing implies. While many surfaces are made of hard plastic, they are sourced sustainably, and Fiat has cleverly utilized color and trim to make the space visually appealing.

      A notable feature is the bamboo-fiber trim on the dashboard, exclusive to the La Prima model, evoking a sense of being on a Mediterranean beach.

      Another eye-catching aspect is the pill-shaped digital cockpit, paying homage to the oval track on the roof of the Lingotto factory, which features a miniature first-gen Panda encased in the yellow-tinted transparent trim. The setup includes a 10-inch instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, although the latter is replaced by a smartphone holder in the entry-level Grande Panda Pop.

      I appreciated the comfortable, modern seating, the light-colored trim throughout the cabin, and the physical air conditioning controls on the center console. However, I was less fond of the glossy black plastic trim on the central console, which detracted from the perceived quality and tends to attract scratches.

      Practicality is impressive, with various storage compartments, although a rubber cover on the dashboard shelf would prevent smaller items from shifting during turns.

      Despite its sub-4m dimensions, the Grande Panda comfortably accommodates four adults, and can even fit five for short journeys. Rear legroom and headroom are quite good for the segment, and the boot has a capacity of up to 412 liters (14.5 cubic feet).

      What’s It Like on the Road?

      The Grande Panda rides on Stellantis’ Smart Car architecture shared with the Citroen C3 and the larger C3 Aircross as well as the Opel Frontera. This budget-friendly platform is distinct from the CMP/eCMP that supports the group’s other small hatchbacks and SUVs, having been initially created for emerging markets like India and South America.

      My first impression upon entering the car was the incredibly light steering when stationary, reminiscent of the “City” mode in older Fiats. As you begin to move, it gains some weight but remains nimble in urban settings.

      The suspension offers a smooth ride without compromising agility. The budget orientation of the model is most apparent over significant road imperfections, where the platform lacks the refinement seen in pricier competitors.

      The mild-hybrid 1