While we are patiently waiting for the debut of the next-gen Panda in July 2024, Fiat unveiled the Pandina – a new version of the existing model upgraded with an ADAS suite and a digital instrument cluster. Furthermore, the Italian brand confirmed that the Panda will continue to be produced at Pomigliano d’Arco at least until 2027.
The Fiat Pandina is the latest evolution of the third-gen Panda which remains on sale largely unchanged since its original debut in 2011. Over the years, the city car received mild-hybrid tech, improved infotainment, and new trims, but the latest update is focused on adding tech and safety features.
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The Pandina is dubbed “the safest Panda ever” but in reality it only gained a rather basic ADAS package, as required by the European Union’s safety regulations. Standard equipment includes the Advanced Emergency Braking System, Lane Keeping Assist, Drowsy Driver Detection, and Traffic Sign Recognition, made possible by a new camera on the windshield. These are joined by Automatic High Beam, a good-old non-active cruise control, rear parking sensors, and a total of six airbags.
The interior of the Pandina has been upgraded with a new 7-inch digital instrument cluster that features three different graphic modes and showcases the new ADAS in action. This is combined with a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, a white dashboard fascia, and a slightly redesigned steering wheel. Finally, the seats feature sustainable Seaqual yarn upholstery with the Pandina logo on the seatbacks and yellow double stitching.
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The exterior adopts the adventurous looks of the Fiat Panda City Cross, with a few unique touches. The mirror caps are painted yellow and a cute Panda face is present on the wheel caps. The Pandina moniker which is a nickname given to the urban dweller by Italian owners – can be found on the rear quarter windows and the side moldings. In addition to the existing color palette of the Panda (Gelato White, Cinema Black, Passione Red, and Italia Blue), the special edition is also available in Positano Yellow which can be combined with a black roof.
The press release doesn’t mention any mechanical updates, meaning that the Pandina will continue with the same mild-hybrid 1.0-liter Firefly three-cylinder engine that is good for 69 hp (52 kW / 70 PS). Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.
People Love The Panda So Fiat Will Keep Making It
Despite being based on a 13-year-old design, the Panda remains a best-seller in the city car segment in both Italy and Europe. Bear in mind that Fiat has sold more than 8 million units of the nameplate since the debut of the original in 1980.
Interestingly, a recent increase in customer demand prompted the Italian automaker to boost production by approximately 20 percent. Fiat confirmed that production of the model will continue at the Giambattista Vico plant in Pomigliano d’Arco in Southern Italy, at least until 2027, which means that it will remain on sale alongside its fully electric successor.
Sales of the new Fiat Pandina will commence in major European markets in summer 2024, coinciding with the debut of the next generation. This might be the reason why Fiat chose a new name for the old model allowing it to peacefully coexist with the new Panda.
