What is it?
The Fiat Grande Panda Electric is an all-new compact electric utility vehicle (EUV) that fills the gap left by the Fiat Punto. While it carries the Panda name, it’s not a direct replacement for the outgoing model in the UK. Instead, it brings a fresh approach to the city car segment with a blend of practicality, affordability, and retro styling.
Built on Stellantis’s Smart Car platform, the Grande Panda shares its underpinnings with models like the Citroën C3 and Vauxhall Frontera, ensuring low production costs while delivering a unique character. Designed to appeal to global markets, including Europe, Brazil, Turkey, and North Africa, the Grande Panda offers both electric and combustion engine variants, though the UK will receive the EV version only.
Design and Styling
Fiat has embraced its heritage with the Grande Panda’s design, incorporating elements from the original 1980 Panda while adding a modern twist.
- The boxy shape and upright stance echo the rugged, no-nonsense appeal of past Pandas.
- A distinctive 3D Panda badge on the rear hatch enhances its character.
- The side panels feature bold Panda branding, reinforcing its identity.
- Unique 16-inch white steel wheels contrast well with brighter body colors like Fiat’s signature Red trim.
Fiat has also introduced a clever new feature—a retractable charging cable housed in the front grille, making public charging easier without the need for separate storage. Meanwhile, a conventional charging port is positioned at the rear, capable of handling up to 100kW rapid charging.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Grande Panda balances cost-conscious simplicity with playful design touches.
- The Panda name is embossed into the seats, while the Fiat logo is stamped on the door panels.
- The dashboard takes inspiration from Fiat’s famous Lingotto test track, featuring a curved design with hidden Panda motifs.
- Recycled materials are used for door panels and seat trims, with bamboo fibre accents available on higher trims.
Technology Highlights:
- A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a simple, user-friendly interface.
- Physical heating controls—a rarity in modern EVs—offering intuitive usability.
- Plenty of storage options, including a deep dashboard tray and multiple compartments adding up to 13 liters of space.
The cabin is spacious for a city car, with enough room for two adults to sit comfortably in the rear. However, the firm seats may be a drawback on longer journeys.
How Does It Drive?
The Grande Panda is not built for thrill-seekers, but it offers decent urban drivability.
110bhp motor delivers 0-62mph in 11.0 seconds, making it adequate for city driving but sluggish on open roads. Lacks the instant acceleration found in many EVs, feeling slightly hesitant compared to alternatives like the Renault 5 E-Tech. Light steering makes it easy to manoeuvre in tight city spaces and roundabouts. Suspension setup is conventional (unlike the Citroën C3’s hydraulic bump stops), but it absorbs bumps well. Mild regenerative braking is available, but even in ‘B’ mode, it doesn’t allow for one-pedal driving. While not the most engaging small EV, it’s comfortable, predictable, and easy to drive, making it ideal for city use.
Battery, Range, and Charging
The Grande Panda uses a 44kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery, offering a claimed WLTP range of 199 miles.
Real-world range: Expect around 140 miles in winter and 180 miles in summer—similar to the Citroën e-C3 and Renault 5 E-Tech.
Charging speeds:
- 100kW DC rapid charging allows a 10-80% charge in approximately 20 minutes.
- A 7kW AC charger is included for home and on-street charging.
The built-in spiral charging cable reduces clutter and simplifies the charging process.
While the absence of a heat pump may reduce efficiency in colder months, the Panda’s LFP battery chemistry is more resilient to frequent charging cycles than traditional lithium-ion NMC batteries.
Range, Charging, and Efficiency
The G-Class Electric is equipped with a 116kWh battery, providing an official WLTP range of 294 miles. In real-world conditions, efficiency is expected to be lower, with estimates closer to 2 miles per kWh, making it less efficient than many other electric SUVs
Charging details:
Max DC charging speed: 200kW (10-80% charge in 32 minutes).
AC charging: 11kW, taking nearly 12 hours for a full charge
While Mercedes highlights that the G-Class Electric can complete 14 laps of the Schökl off-road test track before running out of battery (compared to six laps in the petrol G63 before refueling), the overall efficiency remains one of its weak points
Practicality
Five seats (unlike the Dacia Spring and Hyundai Inster, which only seat four). 361-litre boot—larger than rivals like the Renault 5 (326L) and Peugeot e-208 (309L). Rear seats fold down, but there’s a step between the boot floor and seats. Ample interior storage—including three litres of space in the passenger-side dashboard alone. No frunk (front trunk), but a built-in spiral charging cable compensates. While taller passengers may find rear legroom slightly limited, the Panda still offers strong practicality for its size.
Verdict
The Fiat Grande Panda Electric is a charming, affordable, and practical small EV that delivers great value in an increasingly competitive segment.
Pros:
✔ Fun, retro styling with thoughtful design touches
✔ Affordable entry price compared to rivals
✔ Practical boot space and good interior storage
✔ Clever built-in charging cable for added convenience
✔ Easy to drive with light steering
Cons:
✖ Sluggish acceleration compared to alternatives
✖ Seats are firm, which may impact long-distance comfort
✖ Lacks one-pedal driving capability
✖ No heat pump, impacting winter efficiency
The Grande Panda isn’t about performance—it’s about character and value. While not the fastest or most technologically advanced, it’s affordable, well-designed, and easy to live with. For drivers looking for an affordable, practical EV with personality, the Fiat Grande Panda Electric is a compelling option that stays true to Fiat’s fun and functional DNA.
