New top-of-the-range Panda to be unveiled at the MPH '06 show

Panda-dah

20 October 2006 10:08 GMT / By Jonathan Goddard

Italian, powerful and iconic … it’s either a Ferrari or Jake La Motta, si?

Actually it’s the Panda 100HP … the new range-topping city car in the Fiat catalogue. The 100bhp "goliath" is making it’s debut at the MPH’06 show later this month, complete with its 1.4-litre 16V engine and six speed gearbox.

This latest fun-loving Panda comes with all-round disc brakes, ventilated at the front, together with modified suspension. With a modest weight just over a tonne, the new Panda does 0-62mph in 9.5 seconds and can reach the giddy heights of 115mph, while returning impressive economy of 43.4mpg.

Externally, both the front and rear bumpers are a new, sporty design. A chrome tailpipe is standard, as are body coloured door handles and wing mirrors. The wheel arches are enlarged and blend into new sideskirts. Front fog lights and a tailgate spoiler are standard and you get 15in alloys. Inside, a leather steering wheel and leather gear knob are standard, as are split folding rear seats, height adjustable driver’s seat and auto climate control. You also get a sport mode and Bluetooth.

And all that for less than £10,000. Did someone say value?