The leaked patent files reveal the Panda's external shape. Less boxier than the outgoing model, the newcomer will feature a rounder bonnet, larger, sweptback headlights, wider radiator grille, large air intake, small rear quarter window, and a sloping roofline. The side profile inherits curvy squared-off wheelarches, echoing that of the marque's larger Qubo. At the rear, squat vertical light clusters, bulbous bootlid, and a plastic insert on the bumper with reflector lights will feature.
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| The 2012 Panda will grow in size but will it be re-categorised as a supermini? |
Like every new car, the Panda will be larger than its predecessor but also lighter to guarantee more luggage space, cabin space, and lower running costs. The underpinning will come from the U.S spec 500 city-car to ensure a quieter cabin and reduced NVH (noise, vibration, harshness).
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| Look carefully and you'll notice the door mirrors remain the same as the 2011 MY |
Fiat will launch the new Panda at September's Frankfurt Motor Show, with deliveries starting in early 2012. With such revisions, expect a steep increase to the base price. More variants of the Panda are on the way, like a performance model and a dedicated all-wheel-drive model.
Via Alvolante.it
