Fiat Panda

Performance

1.1-litre and 1.2-litre petrol engines provide 54 and 60bhp respectively but a 1.3-litre turbodiesel adds motorway viability with decent torque that's lacking in the petrol models.

Driving

Decent body control, light steering, good suspension. It's a bit of a mixed bag but 4x4 system adds grip.

Feel

Noisy engines and some noise from the elements. Better than some competitors though.

---

Price

Competitive pricing and good residuals. Running costs are low across the board.

Quality

Interior materials look OK and are sturdy enough. No problems where engines are concerned.

Safety

Various combinations of airbags at different trim levels. ABS with electronic distribution are standard; stability control and option.

---

Space

Plenty of headroom but legroom is limited in the back. Boot is tiny at just over 200 litres.

Equipment

Entry level provides a cassette/radio player, electric front windows, central locking and power steering. Dynamic trim provides a CD player, central locking and aircon. Eleganza provides climate control, alloys and roof bars.

Alternatives

Daihatsu Charade, Citroen C2

---

Pros

Good price, nippy engines.

Cons

Entry-level is a bit stingy on kit. Cramped in the back.

---