Overview

The Fiat Panda 4x4 is a small city car that blends pleasant on-road manners and low running costs with terrific off-road capabilities. It’s no longer available new but the Panda 4x4, which was based on the still-available third-generation Fiat Panda, is well worth considering for buyers wanting an affordable compact car with all-wheel drive.

Such cars are comparatively few and far between, and include the likes of the Suzuki Swift 4x4, Suzuki Ignis and the far more agricultural Jimny, as well as inexpensive alternatives such as the Dacia Duster. You could even consider options such as the Vauxhall Adam Rocks and Ford Fiesta Active, if all-wheel drive isn’t a must-have feature.

Fiat’s third-generation Panda 4x4 became available in the UK market in January 2013. Compared to the standard Panda, the 4x4 benefitted from a hike in ground clearance, additional body protection, and skid plates. And, of course, it featured an automatic all-wheel-drive system with an electronic locking differential, granting it all-wheel drive and additional traction.

The Panda wasn’t just interesting because of its likeable design and off-road capabilities, however. Beyond the obvious appeal was a car that was practical, comparatively spacious and decently equipped, and one that – initially, at least – benefited from good safety ratings. It was also pleasant to drive, with both diesel and petrol options serving up more-than-adequate performance and low running costs.

A version called the Panda Cross followed in 2014, which featured new technology, external tow hooks and an additional driving system that provided three different modes to aid off-road driving, including hill descent control. Fiat also endowed it with some distinct styling changes, including different light clusters, bumpers, roof bars and Cross badging, helping freshen up the looks as well as the technical appeal.

In either case, the Panda 4x4 or Cross represents something of an anomaly, being a small and affordable economy car with all-wheel drive. And, because it has so few competitors, this car remains the undisputed king when it comes to city cars with off-road talent.

Read on for our full breakdown of the Fiat Panda 4x4 and Cross, after which they will be rated in our verdict. During the review, we’ll take into account the car’s driving experience, its comfort and practicality, and how much it’ll cost you to maintain and run.