The Panda sets new class standards when you open the door. This car’s cabin quality represents an enormous step forward for Fiat, not usually known for its high-quality interiors. The dashboard is well laid out, built from good plastics and tightly screwed together. The high centre console works well at bringing the dashboard to the driver, although taller drivers can strike their kneecap against it while climbing into the car. The narrow cockpit manages to be cosy rather than claustrophobic, and the rake-adjustable wheel and height-adjustable seat (standard on this Eleganza model) mean most drivers will be able to get comfortable despite the rather upright driving position.
Legroom is tight for rear-seat passengers; rear headroom isn’t too bad, but boot space is a modest 206 litres, although a sliding rear seat can boost luggage capacity at the expense of legroom.
Fiat has taken safety seriously and the Panda is well equipped, with driver and passenger front airbags as standard and side and curtain bags as options. Front seatbelts have pretensioners and load limiters working with anti-submarine seats, while both seats in the back come with an Isofix fitment. Apart from the entry-level 1.1-litre Active, all Pandas have anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution. An ESP stability system is optional and, where fitted, brings hydraulic brake assistance and a hill-start function.
A Panda in top-spec Eleganza trim means alloys, heated mirrors, CD player, climate control and remote central locking on top of the electric windows, anti-lock brakes and power steering of the cheaper Dynamic model.
Buying and owning costs are make-or-break territory for any small car and Fiat has wisely priced its car competitively. Panda motoring begins at £6295 for the 1.1 Active. Most buyers, though, are expected to go for the 1.2 Dynamic, which retails at £6895. An Eleganza will set you back £8095, a not unreasonable sum considering its specification.
