Fiat Grande Panda review - Engines, drive & performance

The Fiat Grande Panda is unlikely to set your pulses racing with its modest power figures, but that’s not something you should expect of a car of this type anyway. We’ve so far driven the electric model and think it offers a good level of performance and range that will be adequate for most buyers.

We think the Grande Panda’s handling is predictable and controlled – that’s good news, but doesn’t make it particularly entertaining to drive, and there’s none of the driving flair you could reasonably expect from Italian superminis of old.

One of the Grande Panda’s greatest attributes is its ride – the focus here is on comfort, and that’s been very successful, especially given the short wheelbase. 

Is it good to drive in town?

We drove the Grande Panda around the uneven and damaged roads of Turin, where it did a great job of ironing out the potholes and speed bumps. We have almost no doubt this will be just as good at tackling UK roads in urban environments.

Is it good to drive on long journeys?

The acceleration time for both versions of the Grande Panda is pretty sluggish. Even the electric motor in the EV makes progress rather slowly, so getting up to motorway speeds could take you some time. Once you’re up to speed, it’s best to take care and wait for a big gap in traffic if you want to overtake someone.

Is it good to drive on B-roads?

The Grande Panda isn’t particularly fun to drive, so enthusiasts better look elsewhere. In terms of pure handling capability, though, the Grande Panda is very capable and easy to place, which is reassuring.

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Petrol models

While it may be marketed as ‘Hybrid’, the 1.2-litre petrol version of the Grande Panda is only mild-hybrid assisted, so don’t expect to be able to travel on electric power alone. What that does mean, however, is that the engine is bolstered by the electric motors which relieve some of the mechanical strain to improve efficiency and – to some degree – performance. We’ve not driven it yet, but will give our full verdict on the mild-hybrid version once we have. 

Electric models 

The Grande Panda Electric is the most powerful version of the supermini currently available, but its other performance figures are less impressive than those of the Hybrid. That’s because the EV has to contend with the extra weight of the battery. 

Carbuyer notes

“The Grande Panda is no firecracker to drive, something only accentuated by the rather leisurely response from the e-motor. Hit the accelerator with a firm prod and the car will make progress, but at its own pace.” Jordan Katsianis, senior staff writer.