875cc 8V 2cylinder Turbo 85 PS 107 lbft 1050kg Macpherson Struts Double shock mounts 2 x differentials Electronic locking diff to manage wheel spin on each corner The Fiat Panda 4x4 (2012-2023) is a compact, versatile, and charming vehicle that blends city-car practicality with impressive off-road capability, earning widespread praise in online reviews and something of a 'cult' following as a modern classic. Its lightweight design, weighing under 1,000kg, combined with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and 165mm ground clearance, makes it exceptionally capable on challenging terrains, from snowy Alpine roads to muddy rural tracks. Reviewers highlight its ability to tackle harsh conditions, with tests in extreme environments like Lapland and the Himalayas proving its durability and traction! The Panda 4x4’s boxy yet stylish design, featuring a “squircular” interior theme and colourful trim options, adds a fun, distinctive character that sets it apart from rivals like the Suzuki Jimny or Dacia Duster. Equipped with a frugal 0.9-litre TwinAir petrol engine (85hp) (up to 57.6mpg claimed, though closer to 45mpg in real-world driving) and low running costs. Its compact size makes it nimble in urban settings, easy to park, and ideal for narrow rural lanes, while the raised suspension and skid plates enhance its off-road prowess. Owners and reviewers, praise its reliability, engaging driving experience, and surprising luxury in higher trims like the Cross, which includes mud-and-snow tires and a locking differential for enhanced grip. The Fiat Panda Cross is the range-topping, off-road-focused variant of the standard Panda 4x4. Key Specification Differences from the standard 4x4. 1. Ground Clearance The Cross has a slightly higher ground clearance of 161mm 2. Off-Road Angles Improved angles due to redesigned bumpers and increased ride height: - Approach angle: 24° - Breakover angle: 21° - Departure angle: 34° - Maximum gradient capability: 70% - Lateral gradient: 55% 3. Terrain Control System The Panda Cross is Equipped with a Terrain Control system offering three driving modes: - Auto - Distributes torque between front and rear axles (98% front-wheel drive in normal conditions, redistributing in 0.1 seconds when traction is lost). - Off-Road - Engages permanent four-wheel drive up to 30mph, with an Electronic Locking Differential (ELD) and disabled traction control for enhanced grip on slippery surfaces. - Hill Descent Control - Automatically maintains constant speed on downhill slopes using ESC and ABS, requiring neutral gear for activation. 4. Tires and Wheels Panda Cross - Comes with larger 185/65 R15 all-season mud-and-snow (M+S) tires on specific alloy wheels, improving traction on wet, snowy, or muddy surfaces. 5. Exterior Styling and Protection Panda Cross - Enhanced with off-road-oriented styling: - Chunky black front bumper with a prominent skid plate featuring 15 “squircle” intakes. - Matte black headlight/foglight casings and LED daytime running lights. - Bright red tow hooks and protective side cladding. - Reinforced engine cradle to protect against stones. - Skid plates at the front and rear for added underbody protection.[] 6. Gearbox Panda Cross - Uses the same gearboxes but includes an extra-low first gear in the six-speed manual for the TwinAir engine, aiding slow-speed off-road crawling. 7. Interior Features Panda Cross - Standard automatic climate control worldwide, a two-tone brown-and-silver dashboard, and a more premium feel with features like Bluetooth connectivity, satellite navigation, and heated electric mirrors. The “squircle” design motif is more prominent.[] 8. Wading Depth Panda Cross - Improved wading depth of 779mm, aided by a raised engine air intake. The Panda Cross builds on the 4x4’s already impressive off-road ability with higher ground clearance, better approach/departure angles,