Fiat Grande Panda electric supermini revealed in new pictures

Fiat has released the first images of its reimagined Panda which is due to arrive in later this year in fully electric and hybrid variants. 

The new renders of the next-generation supermini closely resemble teaser images shared earlier this year and show a boxier modern take on the existing Panda shape, which Fiat says is inspired by the beloved Panda of the 1980s. Named the Grande Panda, the new model is still a relatively small hatchback. At under 4m long but with seating for five, it’s the same size as the Renault 5 and 40cm longer than the Fiat 500e city car, with Fiat pitching it as perfect for family life and city use. Fiat is calling the Grande Panda a supermini but, like so many cars, there are ‘utility vehicle’ inspired touches such as the chunky black body cladding and front skid plate.There’s a deliberate wedge shape to the body, with the rear end sitting higher than the front, and sloping roof rails — evoking memories of the old Sisley 4×4. Elsewhere, Fiat is leaning into the squared-off styling of the 80s classic, from the pixel-style headlights apparently inspired by the windows of the Lingotto factory in Turin, to the boxy window surrounds and sharp-shaped wheel arches.In another nod to the old Panda 4×4, the Panda name is picked out in massive 3D lettering along the doors, with the Fiat name boldly stamped in the same style on the tailgate. There are no interior pictures but Fiat has previously said that the Grande Panda’s cabin has been inspired by the famous Lingotto’s rooftop test track, so expect oval accents to the dashboard, displays and seats. Also expect plenty of recycled materials as Fiat tries to improve the sustainability of its models and an airy cabin design to enhance the feeling of space.The Grande Panda will be built on the Stellantis group’s Smart Car platform which has been adapted to accommodate all-electric and petrol/electric drivetrains. Fiat hasn’t released technical details but this is the same platform that the Citroen e-C3 and Vauxhall Frontera use, so it’s safe to assume the Fiat will use the same motor and battery as them. That should mean 111bhp and a range of roughly 199 miles from a 44kWh battery. It also hints at a similar price to the £22,000 Citroen and the incoming family of Volkswagen Group superminis. The Grande Panda will be the first in a new global Panda family, with another new model every year until 2027. These will range from a larger family SUV to a pick-up and even a campervan. As part of Fiat’s plans for a more global approach, different models will be sold in different markets with a variety of powertrains, with the Grande Panda sold in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.