Fiat has very cleverly rekindled its off-road heritage with the unveiling of the Grande Panda 4×4 concept, which represents one of the coolest modern interpretations of the beloved Panda 4×4 from the 1980s. It is still a concept, but a production model could very well arrive in the near future.
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First things first, this iteration of the production model is still merely a conceptual imagining of what Fiat would do should it want to instil nostalgia with some of its buyers. Interestingly enough, Fiat’s footprint in South Africa dates back decades, with local production of models like the Fiat 128, 131, and 132 at the Rosslyn plant until the early 1980s, but the first-generation Panda (1980–2003) was never offered here. The second-generation Panda (2003–2012) saw limited presence, but it was the third generation that resonated best with and delivered some of Fiat’s best sales results in the SUV segment. While not exclusively a 4×4, its off-road capabilities were commendable from the slender and petite model.
The new Fiat Grande Panda is coming to South Africa
By 2020, Fiat had ceased importing new Panda models, and now in 2024, the Italian automaker has continued to evolve the Panda lineup, with the introduction of the Grande Panda, which now features hybrid and electric options. The latest Grande Panda is now earmarked for local introduction, which means should it arrive and this concept go into production, it could make its way onto South African roads too.
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The Grande Panda 4×4 concept pays homage to its predecessor with a boxy silhouette, steel wheels, and utilitarian design elements. The extremities feature chunky plastic body cladding, raised suspension, and underbody protection. The concept features a roof rack equipped with a spare wheel and auxiliary lights and the front bumper showcases four-point LED lights, complementing the pixelated headlight design, while a “Panda” cutout adorns the side cladding.
Built on Stellantis’ Smart Car platform, the Grande Panda is currently available in mild-hybrid and fully electric configurations. The 4×4 concept introduces a rear electric motor, suggesting the feasibility of an all-wheel-drive system. While specific powertrain details remain undisclosed, the addition of a rear motor would logically enhance traction and off-road capability.
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Fiat CEO Olivier Francois has acknowledged the brand’s commitment to exploring a 4×4 variant of the Grande Panda, stating, “We’re trying to find the solution and a way. The question is whether it should be an ICE 4×4 or an EV 4×4. We’re looking at solutions and how and when—but we get the point and would like to do something like it soon”. While no official production timeline has been announced, the concept’s debut signals Fiat’s interest in reintroducing a 4×4 model that aligns with modern sustainability goals.
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As said earlier, the Grande Panda is earmarked for South Africa since Fiat aims for it to be a global vehicle, with production planned across three continents. The Italian automaker has emphasised affordability, with the hybrid version starting under £19 000 (R450 000) and the electric variant priced below £25 000 (R600 000).
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