The 2004 European Car of the Year is heading South Africa’s way. The announcement was made at the Durban Motor Show where Fiat Auto SA previews the Fiat Panda 4x4, the latest in a line of unique products targeted at meeting a diverse range of requirements met by a constantly expanding range of Fiat products.

Innovation, appealing design and cutting-edge technology open to all. Clever solutions to make on-board life simpler and better. These values are written into the DNA of the Fiat brand and the Panda 4x4 combines them with a distinctive personality of its own and a desire to get away from it all. The new car immediately conjures up a wish to travel in complete freedom, even to places that are inaccessible to conventional vehicles. But this does not detract in any way from the driving satisfaction the car offers when navigating the narrow streets of suburbia. It is the ideal car for customers who seek handling and exterior elegance in addition to off-road attributes.

The Panda 4x4 is as an out-and-out off-roader or a fun car able to weave its way with ease in town traffic. This is, in essence, a car with a dual personality that conveys an immediate impression of freshness and fun backed by solidity and sturdiness. The whole package is also marked by a touch of pizzazz and style we have come to expect from Italian passion and Fiat cars.
 

Fiat has led the compact vehicle market for more than 70 years, building a fantastic technical and design heritage during that time. While Panda is a new concept for South Africa, it is well-established icon in Europe and with changing customer profiles in mind, has been developed as a modern, technically advanced and fun car.

While pricing and specification is still be finalised for the South African market, the Panda 4x4 will be available with a 44kW 1,2-litre petrol engine.

The Panda 4x4 is a small, stylish off-roader able to tackle any situation with an extra touch of sophistication inside and out, an ideal car for extroverts on the move. Attributes include an extraordinary ability to perform on off-road routes, a viscous coupling drive system and high grip tyres.

Small dimensions (the Panda 4x4 is 357cm long, 160cm wide and 163cm high) and great handling in addition to good ground clearance (a minimum of 160mm) make the Panda 4x4 a nimble town and country car offering a raised driving position for improved visibility, while still be able to turn with a 9,6 metre diameter circle.

The permanent four-wheel drive system features a viscous coupling and two differentials that come into play automatically when required to tackle any situation with ease.

The Panda 4x4 is a car of huge personality that will be able to satisfy customers with different needs and tastes, including the growing number of drivers who seek adventure and an open-air life. After seeing it at the Durban Motor Show, look out for its introduction half way through the year.