New Panda 'squares the circle' for Fiat

FIAT Group Automobile has announced pricing and specification details for the third-generation Fiat Panda, which has just gone on sale here.

Slightly larger than the model it replaces, the new Panda boasts improved safety standards, more interior space and fresh interior and exterior designs inspired by the concept of the "Squircle" i.e. squared-off circular shapes.

Special attention, says Fiat, has also been paid to the materials, solidity and overall finish of the new Panda, which is now built in Fiat's flagship Giambattista Vico factory near Naples in Italy, while the Panda's chassis benefits from improved noise and vibration isolation, reduced body roll and higher levels of grip.

Two engines will power the Panda at launch and two trim levels are offered: Pop and Easy.

The entry-level engine is the 69hp 1.2-litre engine, which has been revised for improved refinement and efficiency in the new Panda, while the 75hp, 1.3-litre, MultiJet II turbo diesel engine is also offered, complete with Start&Stop and Gearshift Indicator systems as standard.

The award-winning, 85hp, 0.9-litre, TwinAir Turbo engine will be available shortly offering punchy performance and impressive fuel economy along with Band A emissions, just like the rest of the 2012 Fiat Panda range.

Standard specification on Pop versions includes central locking; electric front windows; electric mirrors; front and full-length curtain airbags; anti-whiplash headrests and daytime running lights.

The Easy version adds air conditioning; remote locking; front foglights; roof bars and an upgraded audio system. Available features include ESP stability control, climate control, parking sensors, an electric Skydome sunroof, Dualogic automated manual transmission, Blue&Me connectivity and a TomTom Live satellite navigation system.

An advanced ‘Low Speed Collision Mitigation’ braking system will be rolled out later his year, the first Fiat Group Automobiles vehicle to feature such advanced safety technology.

A new Panda 4X4 Climbing, which is fitted with an advanced all-wheel drive system engineered in conjunction with the Fiat Panda's ESP system, is also scheduled for launch in the autumn.

Pricing for the all-new FIAT Panda starts at €11,995 for the 1.2 Pop, with the 1.2 Easy priced at €12,995.

The TwinAir Easy will retail for €14,495 when it hits showrooms shortly, while the top-of-the-range 1.3 JTDM Easy is priced at €15,545.