Fiat has just announced that its off-road Panda Cross is going on sale in the UK. Based on the existing Panda 4x4, the Cross has more rugged styling and a higher ride height. It is already on sale in mainland Europe for sometime now, but Fiat has just taken the decision to bring the diminutive off-roader to UK showrooms, where prices will start from £11,995.
Power comes from Fiat’s frugal 70bhp 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel engine, making the Panda Cross one of the most economical all-wheel drive markets on sale. It’s claimed to be capable of returning 54mpg and emitting just 136g/km CO2. According to Fiat, the Panda Cross returns 42.1 mpg urban, 67.3 mpg extra-urban, and 54.3 mpg combined.
The visual makeover includes chunky side protection strips, reworked bumpers, new front lights, roof rails and 15-inch alloy wheels, ESP, air conditioning, radio and MP3-compatible CD player with steering wheel audio controls, and electric power steering. The Cross is the spiritual successor to the first-generation Panda Sisley, which found its niche as a cheap, economical off-roader.