Fiat Panda hatchback - MPG, running costs & CO2
The Fiat Panda is a very cheap car to buy but it can’t match the fuel economy of cars with more modern engines
The Panda shouldn’t cost you too much to keep on the road and run, as it comes with a 1.0-litre Mild Hybrid engine which is well suited to short journeys. There was a peppier (albeit less economical) turbocharged 0.9-litre TwinAir petrol engine available in the Panda 4x4, but this has since been discontinued. High-mileage drivers may also be disappointed to know that the economical 1.3-litre diesel engine is no longer available.
Fiat Panda MPG & CO2
Fiat used to offer the Panda with a thrifty 1.3-litre diesel engine, but it has been discontinued, along with the outdated 1.2-litre petrol, which was a bit of a lacklustre performer and not as economical as newer engines in rivals. Up to 47mpg was claimed, and it produced fairly low CO2 emissions.
Introduced in 2020, the Panda Mild Hybrid's 1.0-litre petrol engine and energy recuperation technology makes it around 30% more efficient than the previous 1.2-litre according to Fiat. It can return up to 57.6mpg and CO2 emissions are as low as 112g/km, making it attractive for company-car buyers in need of a cheap urban runaround.
There was also the more expensive 0.9-litre TwinAir engine in the Fiat Panda 4x4. This offered a better all-round driving experience and was more suited to the Panda’s fun and lively character, but economy wasn't its strong point either and now it’s been discontinued.
Insurance group
The standard Fiat Panda hatchback falls into insurance groups five to seven, so it won't be expensive to cover (as long as you have a reasonable driving record and claims history) and is an appealing choice for learner drivers or a first car.
Warranty
Fiat covers all its cars against mechanical faults for unlimited miles up to three years and the Panda is no different. This is pretty typical for the industry as a whole, although both the Hyundai i10 and Kia Picanto do better, with their manufacturers offering five and seven-year policies respectively. The paint is also covered for three years, while Fiat provides an eight-year anti-corrosion guarantee.
Servicing
The Fiat Panda is offered with fixed-price servicing, which makes budgeting for maintenance easier. You can choose to pay with interest-free monthly direct debit, allowing you to spread the cost over the time you own the car. The exact cost depends on how many services you want the plan to cover and your anticipated annual mileage. Or, you can go for the 'Easy Care' package. This can cover between one and five years and covers all parts and labour – including an oil and filter change if required. If you opt for this offer when the car's new, then you can cover the first three services for £400.
