The Fiat Panda Cross has
demonstrated its continued credentials as a off-roader
after scooping its second honour in the UK in just a
week: 4x4 of the Year, Budget Category.
This time the award comes
from specialist publication 4x4 Magazine, whose
panel of expert judges put the all-terrain small Fiat at
the top of a list that however included several very
elderly competitors, which should always be a simple
formality to outperform for any pretender, such as the
long-running Suzuki Jimny and Lada Niva.
The judges praised the
Panda’s off-roading capability, style and affordability
but particularly highlighted the car’s economical
1.3-litre 16v MultiJet turbodiesel engine: “Panda Cross
is easily distinguishable, thanks to its distinctive
body mouldings, two-tone paintwork, fat wheel arches and
large 15-inch alloys,” says Hils Everitt, editor, 4x4
Magazine. “Besides the funkier looks, standard kit
includes air conditioning, a plusher interior as well as
the greater economy of a 1.3-litre diesel engine. The
full-time 4x4 system that shifts torque to the wheels
with the most grip, just like a full-size 4x4, will be
enough all-terrain capability most owners ever need.”
“It might be small,
but the Panda is a giant when it comes to serious off-roading,”
believes Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat
Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. “It’s good to see it
continuing to be a top choice for both our customers,
and influential judging panels.”
First launched in
Italy and across mainland Europe in July 2005, however
the Panda Cross 4x4 didn't arrive in the UK until two
years ago due to the Panda's four-wheel-drive platform
version not being engineered for right hand drive. As
with any Panda, the Cross’s fuel consumption and
emissions are very good. It returns 42.1 mpg in the
urban cycle, 67.3 mpg extra-urban, and 54.3 mpg
combined. The CO2 figure is 136 g/km. Standard equipment
in the UK includes ESP with Hill Holder, electronic
differential lock, air conditioning, alloy wheels,
radio/CD/MP3 player with steering wheel audio controls,
and electric power steering. The Panda Cross costs
£13,695 on-the-road.
