In a market dominated by serious SUVs dressed in dull colors, the Fiat Grande Panda stands out as a vibrant red supermini (other colors are available) that brings back the joy of car design. This compact electric vehicle is a testament to playful detail and creativity.

True to its name, the Grande Panda appears smaller than its actual dimensions due to its flat sides and blunt front and rear, creating a look that is assertive yet approachable. While it pays tribute to the beloved classic Fiat Panda—originally launched 45 years ago—it successfully updates the iconic shape without resorting to mere imitation. Fiat’s design team has refreshed an automotive classic while preserving its unique charm.

The original Panda, designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro—who created some of the most iconic cars in history, including the Volkswagen Golf—was a product of a different era, relying on traditional tools instead of computer software. The new Grande Panda captures this vision in a modern electric form, featuring a flat interior floor and an upright design that enhances headroom. Its chunky wheel arches and embossed “Panda” branding on the side and “Fiat” on the rear are complemented by LED lights at the back that mirror the pixelated front lighting. This design choice strikes a balance between fun and sophistication.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the interior evokes a stylish showroom feel. Upon entering, it invites a smile with its practical design. The dashboard features a large oblong layout housing a central touchscreen and a display for the driver. In the top-spec La Prima model, the passenger area showcases bamboo veneer storage that integrates real bamboo elements, highlighting a nod to sustainability. Additionally, interior panels are crafted from recycled beverage cartons, with about 140 drinks worth used per vehicle.

Functionality is a key strength of the Grande Panda, boasting a spacious boot of 361 liters and multiple storage cubbies throughout the cabin. Although backseat legroom could be more generous, it remains acceptable for a car of this size.

I have driven the all-electric variant of the Grande Panda, with a petrol hybrid version slated for release soon. With its 44kWh battery, Fiat claims a range of up to 199 miles on the WLTP cycle, but a more practical estimate would be around 140 miles with careful driving. The vehicle comes with a compact charging cable securely stored under a flap at the front. Note that this accessory is only compatible with 7kW charging from a wallbox, while rapid charging is available through a 100kW-capable CCS socket at the rear, allowing for a 20 to 80 percent charge in less than thirty minutes at a fast-charging station.

It’s worth mentioning that the Grande Panda produces around 111bhp, allowing it to accelerate from zero to 62mph in approximately 11.5 seconds, with a top speed of 82mph. While these figures may seem modest, they are sufficient for most urban scenarios. The ride quality is commendable, although it can become bumpy on significant potholes.

In conclusion, the Grande Panda isn’t marketed as a sport-focused vehicle, but it offers a user-friendly driving experience that thrives in city traffic, making it a practical choice for urban dwellers. Even those with infinite budgets might find joy in its agility and stylishness for navigating crowded urban environments.

The best part is its affordability; the Grande Panda EV starts at £21,035 for the base model featuring white-painted steel wheels and red bodywork—a striking aesthetic reminiscent of classic car designs.

For those seeking more luxury, the La Prima version is available for £23,975, incorporating a range of upgrades including enhanced cameras and larger alloy wheels, still competitive among its rivals. The upcoming petrol-hybrid model, equipped with a 1.2-liter engine and a 48-volt hybrid system, will be priced lower than its electric counterpart, offering a transition option for consumers concerned about electric driving.

The Grande Panda illustrates that impactful experiences can often come in smaller packages—showing that even compact vehicles can make a significant impression.