New Fiat Panda off-roader

Fiat unveils the latest version of its pint-sized off-roader, the Panda Cross.

Based on the successful Fiat Panda 4X4, launched in 2006, the new model looks as rugged as a cute car can be, with black plastic body mouldings, perforated steel under tray, roof bars, special 15-inch alloys, distinctive lights clusters and lots more.

Powered by uprated versions of the 1.3 MultiJet II and 0.9 TwinAir Turbo engines, the Panda Cross gets new Terrain Control, offering the choice of three driving modes depending on conditions – Auto, Off-Road and Hill Descent Control.

Auto mode automatically distributes the engine torque between the front and rear axles without requiring any input from the driver. On normal roads with good traction, the FIAT Panda Cross is 98% front-wheel drive but when a loss of traction is detected the system is capable of automatically reacting by redistributing the engine torque between axles in just a tenth of a second.

In Off-Road mode, the all-wheel drive function is permanently activated up to 30 mph to ensure the Panda Cross responds immediately and consistently to driver inputs.

Hill Descent Control (HDC) activates automatically when the speed drops below 15mph and remains in standby mode up to 30mph. It employs the vehicle’s ESC sensors and ABS brake system to maintain a constant speed and avoid unexpected yaw movements on tricky downhill terrain with unpredictable levels of grip.

The new Fiat Panda Cross goes on sale later this autumn priced from £15,945 for the TwinAir version and £16,945 for the diesel-powered model.