- Fiat just unveiled the Grande Panda 4×4 concept as a “direct heir” to the Panda 4×4 of the 1980s.
- The new concept rides on a set of steel wheels wrapped in knobby tires and rocks a fabulous maroon paint complete with fender cladding and a roof rack for extra storage.
- Fiat surely won’t sell the new Grande Panda here in the United States—it hasn’t even confirmed production—but we really think they should reconsider both positions.
We’re spoiled for choice when it comes to small crossovers in the United States. But that doesn’t mean we don’t pine for more. So, when Fiat unveiled the spectacular new Grande Panda 4×4 concept, our hearts fluttered at the thought of driving such a car in the U.S.Sure, it looks tougher and more capable than it probably is, but the adorable little Panda sports brawny styling with steel wheels and the obligatory fender cladding that advertises its 4×4 status. Fiat says the new Grande Panda concept is a “direct heir” to the original Panda 4×4 that launched in 1983. With an affordable price and a raised ride height, that model became an instant hit among off-roaders.FiatThe new concept is based on Fiat’s current Grande Panda that comes in electric and hybrid formats. Fiat says the Grande Panda 4×4 concept is planned with an “electrified innovative rear axle”—whatever that means. As it’s just a concept, Fiat remains mum on the finer details, so we’re left to wonder about what powers the front axle as well. The brand hasn’t actually confirmed production plans, but Fiat’s European boss, Gaetano Thorel, indicated to Autocar that it could someday hit the road. “Surely we will have this car on the road in the future–but not tomorrow,” Thorel told Autocar. Assuming Fiat does put the Grande Panda 4×4 into production, we think the Italian marque should consider bringing it to North America. The brand sold fewer than 1000 of its electric 500e in the U.S. last year, which suggests it isn’t very desirable to Americans. But one thing Americans are obsessed with is a lifted crossover that looks like it could be taken off-road, and the new Grande Panda 4×4, albeit tiny, projects that image. More on FiatJack Fitzgerald’s love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1.
After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn’t afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf.
Source: caranddriver.com
