Fiat continued the story of the Panda lineup in 2024 when it unveiled a new generation of this nameplate, albeit built on an entirely new platform shared with other brands within the Stellantis Group.
The first generation of the Panda appeared on the market in 1980 and surprised customers with its humble aspect, low price, and excellent functionality. While many considered it a box on wheels, it was designed by one of the greatest car stylists in the world, Giorgetto Giugiaro. He described that car as being “like a pair of jeans: a simple, practical article of clothing without pretense.” That model was produced until 2003 and was Europe’s longest-production small car. The following two generations, launched in 2003 and 2011, respectively, were well received by customers. In 2024, the Italian automaker decided it was time for a change and used the same STLA Smart Car Platform used by the Citroen C3 and the Opel Frontera.
At the front, the rectangular-shaped upper grille clearly resembled the original mode penned by Giugiaro, but it was updated to 2024 standards. As a result, it featured LED headlights and a black panel between them adorned by squared dots and the FIAT logo on the right. On the lower bumper, the automaker placed a flat bumper with an integrated apron that integrated an air intake. This, in turn, was flanked by two narrow vertical scoops. Below, in the middle, the automaker added a silver trim resembling a skid plate, which reminded customers of the Panda 4×4.
However, the most daring details were noticed on the sides. Fiat created sculptured doors crossed by an element stamped with the Panda nameplate in oversized capital letters. Below, a set of black side sills made the car look more rugged, ready to tackle some off-road trails. Furthermore, the front and rear fenders featured angular-shaped trims resembling the 1983 Panda 4×4 design. The tall greenhouse added more straight lines and sharp angles in an attempt to make the small-sized vehicle look tough. Out back, the raked forward tailgate was adorned at the top with a roof spoiler, while its lower part had the FIAT brand name stamped into the metal sheet. In addition, the automaker added the Panda nameplate added in 3D lettering. The wrapped-around plastic bumper was also full of details that screamed for attention. It featured a lower black trim that supported the license plate, while below it was a second silver-painted decoration that mimicked a skid plate.
Inside, the automaker insisted on creating a simple yet efficient environment for its customers. As expected, it didn’t have any analog dials anymore, and the classic instrument cluster was replaced by a screen. In addition, a second touchscreen placed atop the center stack was available for the infotainment system. Fiat offered the car with high-mounted front seats so it could provide enough legroom for the rear-seated passengers. In the back, the split-folding bench seat could expand the small trunk.
The STLA Smart Car Platform was engineered to accommodate hybrid and electric drivetrains. As a result, Fiat gained all these advantages when it created the 2024 Panda. However, at the time of the fourth generation of this nameplate launch, the automaker concealed any details about engines and performance.
