Share

Fiat to debut next Panda 4x4

Fiat will unveil its next-generation Panda 4x4 at the upcoming 2012 Paris auto show.

The all-wheel drive Panda hopes to attract buyers looking for a city car capable of handling the rough outdoors.

The four-door Panda is 3.6m long, 1.6 wide and 1.6m high. The wheelbase is 230cm and it has a front and rear track of 141cm and 140cm respectively.

METHANE-POWERED

The Panda 4x4 is powered by either the new 63kW 900cc TwinAir Turbo or the 55kW 1.3 MultiJet II diesel.

Each is equipped with start/stop. Compared to the 1.2 engine of the previous generation, the TwinAir Turbo has 40% more torque.

The engines are mated to a six-speed transmission with a low-range first gear.

The Panda 4x4 is equipped with a torque-on-demand transmission system with two differentials and an electronically controlled coupling that distributes traction to the front and rear axle according to road conditions.

It is entirely automatic and requires no maintenance.

Standard on the Panda 4x4 is electronic stability control with an electronic locking differential.

Other standard creature comforts includes manual air-con, CD/MP3 radio, 15-inch alloy rims riding on 175/65 R15 M+S tyres, power side mirrors, central locking and rear head restraints.

The ELD acts by braking wheels with poor grip, thereby transferring the drive force to wheels which have more grip. This function can be activated manually and operates below 50km/h.

The new model's rear suspension is lighter than its predecessor and provides a smoother ride while reducing road noise.

The Panda family will increase in Paris with the addition of the new Trekking and Natural Power versions.

The Trekking model serves as a bridge between 4x2 and 4x4 versions, combining off-road capability with Fiat's smart front-wheel drive Traction+ technology. The system improves handling on slippery terrain.

The new Natural Power model, equipped with a dual-fuel (methane and petrol) 60kW 900cc TwinAir Turbo engine, combines the low running costs and eco-friendly advantages of methane with Turbo TwinAir technology.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE