Stellantis Provided Citroen C3 and Fiat Grande Panda with Identical Foundations, Yet They Possess Different Characters | Review | Carscoops

      Two compact hatchbacks featuring crossover styling and shared powertrains, yet Stellantis has allowed Citroen and Fiat to create distinct identities for each model.

      by Thanos Pappas

      While SUVs have become prevalent on European roads, compact and affordable hatchbacks are still very much in the picture. Stellantis has recognized this, subtly repositioning the Citroen C3 as a value-driven crossover-style hatchback while also providing Fiat with the same platform to develop the new Grande Panda. We recently tested both models back-to-back, eager to determine if the differences extended beyond their designs.

      Citroen and Fiat hold specific positions within the Stellantis lineup, serving budget-conscious consumers by offering the most affordable vehicles in their segments. Consequently, the new C3 and Grande Panda are based on the economical Smart Car platform instead of the more advanced CMP framework found in their counterparts like the Opel Corsa, Peugeot 208, and Lancia Ypsilon.

      Despite the cost-conscious foundations, Stellantis has not cut corners on powertrains. Buyers can choose from a varied selection of internal combustion, mild hybrid, and fully electric options.

      Quick Facts

      As expected, the two hatchbacks share the same wheelbase and are nearly identical in length and width. The Citroen is 16 mm (0.6 inches) longer, while the Fiat is 5 mm (0.2 inches) wider. On a technical level, these variations are negligible, but the designs set them apart more than their measurements indicate.

      Distinct Exteriors

      Photos by Thanos Pappas for CarScoops

      Most would concur that Citroen and Fiat’s designers successfully distinguished their vehicles. Although the two models share fundamental proportions, roof outlines, and critical mounting points, every body panel is distinct. This allowed each brand to employ its unique design language throughout the exterior.

      The Citroen presents a bold and muscular appearance with detailed sculpting, whereas the Fiat adopts a boxier, retro-futuristic look, complete with Easter Eggs that reference its Italian heritage. Both hatchbacks have a higher stance and feature crossover design elements, but the Grande Panda's thicker plastic cladding and elevated roof rails give it a slightly more adventurous aesthetic compared to the C3.

      Examples illustrating the delicate balance between cost-saving and design intent include the identical mirror caps paired with different indicators (sourced from the Stellantis parts bin), shared door handles featuring unique stampings, and a common greenhouse with slightly varied window lines.

      Diverse Interiors, Unique Ambiances

      Photos by Thanos Pappas for CarScoops

      The distinct characteristics of each model become even clearer inside the cabin. The Citroen embraces a modern and minimalist style, characterized by horizontal dashboard lines, a compact two-spoke steering wheel, a small digital instrument cluster reminiscent of a head-up display, and fabric trim that conceals hard plastics.

      In contrast, the Fiat showcases a more vibrant and playful atmosphere. It features an oval digital cockpit with a miniature Panda integrated into the transparent edge, a Bamboo-like glovebox cover, vintage emblems, and glossy black accents.

      Naturally, many core components are shared between the two. The climate controls are thankfully physical, the infotainment screen measures 10.25 inches for both models, and the majority of switchgear and door handles are identical. This is expected from cars utilizing the same components.

      Comfort and Practicality

      Cabin space appears to be alike, with both vehicles providing adequate legroom and headroom for four adults to travel comfortably. The seats are plush and stylish in their own right, leaving Citroen’s “Advanced Comfort” marketing claim largely symbolic. The trunks also seem similar at first glance, even though there’s a significant difference in specifications favoring the Fiat.

      Overall, the Fiat offers a more unique interior ambiance that delights passengers, while the Citroen might have better long-term appeal and a slight edge in perceived quality—likely due to its darker interior trim.

      Trim levels are comparable, ranging from base models to the higher-end variants we tested. In Greece, the Fiat is generally the more budget-friendly option throughout the range, whereas in other markets like Germany and the UK, the Citroen frequently appears cheaper, particularly for the electric variants.

      Driving Experiences

      Behind the wheel, the similarities are quickly apparent. Contrary to some reviews, both models have the same suspension geometry and a soft tuning overall. The Citroen has a slight advantage over uneven surfaces, thanks to its “Progressive Hydraulic Cushions” which soften full damper extension impacts.

      Both hatchbacks are very easy to maneuver and excel in the narrow streets of Athens. Performance is consistent across the board, featuring both electric and turbocharged 1.2-liter engines in regular and mild-hybrid forms. The Grande Panda may eventually introduce an all-wheel-drive option, potentially reviving the Panda 4×4 legacy.

      Steering feedback is also quite similar, providing a point of discussion. The Grande Panda offers a hint of the ultra-light City mode experienced in older Fi