Fiat Grande Panda Preview

FIAT has unveiled the new Grande Panda Hybrid, a pivotal step in its global product strategy and a clear move toward making electrified mobility more accessible to a broader audience. Designed for urban living, this B-segment model follows the recent launch of the fully electric Grande Panda and marks FIAT’s return to the heart of the compact car segment. More than just a new model, the hybrid Panda reaffirms the brand’s historical strengths: simplicity, innovation and design that connects emotionally with the everyday driver.

The Grande Panda project goes beyond the vehicle itself. It represents the beginning of a new global family of cars, entirely conceived and developed under the guidance of FIAT HQ and Centro Stile in Mirafiori, Turin. From sketch to production, the Grande Panda reflects the brand’s Italian spirit and its ambition to provide inclusive and intelligent mobility solutions worldwide. With compact dimensions and a strong visual identity, the car emphasises practicality, style and sustainability.

Built on Stellantis’ Smart Car Platform, the Grande Panda is engineered for flexibility, supporting both electric and hybrid powertrains. This global architecture allows the vehicle to meet diverse market needs with ease. Measuring 3.99 metres in length, 1.76 metres in width and 1.58 metres in height, the Grande Panda offers surprising spaciousness, comfortably seating five passengers while maintaining a city-friendly footprint.

At the heart of the hybrid version is FIAT’s innovative T-Gen3 hybrid powertrain. It pairs a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 110 horsepower with a 48-volt lithium-ion battery and a six-speed eDCT dual-clutch automatic transmission. The system incorporates a 21-kilowatt electric motor, an inverter and a central control unit to enable smooth and efficient performance. In low-speed situations, the car can operate in full-electric mode for up to one kilometre, with features like e-launch, e-creeping and e-parking supporting quiet, clean operation around town.

This setup reduces fuel consumption and emissions while enhancing comfort and driveability, particularly in stop-start traffic. The use of the Miller Cycle combustion process and the two-pedal layout reflects FIAT’s easy drive philosophy, designed to make everyday motoring stress-free and enjoyable.

The exterior design of the Grande Panda reinterprets the essence of the 1980s original, updated with modern flair. A wedge-like profile and strong stance are complemented by thoughtful details such as pixel-inspired LED headlights, cube-shaped taillights and blacked-out pillars. Embossed branding and playful graphics add further personality. A variety of colours and three trim levels allow owners to tailor the vehicle to suit their tastes and lifestyles.

Inside, the Grande Panda offers an unexpectedly spacious and cleverly designed interior. The Blu Tasmania colour theme is accented by vibrant yellow details on the dashboard, infotainment zone and seats, creating a lively and welcoming cabin. The 412-litre boot and modular storage solutions, including a 13-litre dashboard compartment, add to the car’s everyday practicality. Sustainability plays a key role throughout the interior. The standout BAMBOX dashboard is made from a bamboo fibre textile containing 33 percent real bamboo, offering a unique tactile finish. Each vehicle also repurposes approximately 140 beverage cartons, transforming them into Lapolen Ecotek, a durable blue plastic with a shimmering aluminium effect used throughout the cabin.

Three distinct trims—POP, ICON and LA PRIMA—cater to different preferences. Entry-level models come with essential features like a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, smartphone connectivity and key safety systems. ICON introduces a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, LED lighting and optional upgrade packs for added style, tech and winter capability. LA PRIMA sits at the top of the range, combining all features with exclusive materials and the highest level of comfort and design.

Every version of the Grande Panda Hybrid includes a full suite of driver assistance systems, from cruise control and lane keeping to driver alertness monitoring and emergency braking. Connectivity is delivered via dual screens, wireless smartphone mirroring, USB-C ports and wireless charging. FIAT’s Connect ONE and Connect PLUS service plans offer digital integration with features like emergency assistance, vehicle tracking and remote diagnostics through the mobile app. The Grande Panda Hybrid will arrive in Ireland this summer, with full pricing and specifications to be announced closer to launch.