Confirming that it has a larger footprint than the current car, Fiat refers to the City Car concept as “a sort of ‘Mega-Panda'”, but it is still expected to be among the smaller full-sized cars available in Europe.
The new Panda is expected to morph into an ultra-compact crossover, like the Citroën to which it is related, riding higher and with a greater focus on cabin space than its predecessor.
The concept’s upright stature, chunky proportions and contrasting lower bodywork suggest the Panda will lean into the rugged, utilitarian cues that have defined its namesake since it launched, three generations ago, in 1980.
Fiat explained that raising the Panda up off the ground for its next generation will broaden its appeal: “The high driving position and robust design make this city car the perfect ally for customers all over the world, especially in crowded urban environments. But, at the same time, it offers roominess and versatility for family weekend trips and holidays.”
Fiat does not go so far as to hint at the new Panda’s technical specifications, but like the C3 it is set to be offered with a choice of combustion and electric powertrains as Fiat strives to ensure its products remain accessible to as wide a demographic as possible, and to cater to differing needs in different markets.
Citroën has not yet fully detailed the C3’s combustion offering, but the EV produces 111bhp and is available with two batteries giving a range of either 124 or 199 miles.
Crucially, the electric C3 is expected to be one of the cheapest full-sized electric cars on sale, with a start price of less than €20,000, and the electric Panda is expected to roughly match that. The petrol version could cost as little as £15,000.
