Fiat Panda Cross to emerge in Geneva

Fiat Panda Cross to emerge in Geneva

Fiat is preparing for the launch of its new vehicle at the 84th Geneva International Motor Show, with the Panda Cross ready to make its debut.

The car builds on the success of the Fiat Panda 4x4, but the manufacturer said this new model will deliver more "capability and attitude". 

Furthermore, the model will provide even more all-terrain capability than its predecessor, while still being more than comfortable on the city streets. 

This off-road ability is improved thanks to the standard fitted 'Torque-on-Demand' system, using the car's electronic locking differential and advanced electronic stability control to manage the engine's torque delivery in the most difficult of driving conditions. 

According to Fiat, this system is both fully automatic and requires zero maintenance, as it is all controlled by the new Terrain Control selector, offering three driving modes depending on the situation. These are Auto, Lock-4WD and Hill Descent. 

The Cross has also been fitted with oversize all-season 185/65R15 tyres, so it is ready to tackle any kind of weather condition or surface. 

It has also had the suspension tweaked to combine on-road comfort, road-holding and handling with its off-road characteristics. 

A choice of two engine types will be made available, including the 0.9 TwinAir Turbo and the 1.3 MultiJet II turbo-diesel.

The former delivers 57.6mpg and CO2 emissions of just 114g/km. This is twinned to a six-speed manual transmission. The latter offers 60.1mpg and limits CO2 emissions to 125g/km. 

On the inside, the car is adorned with Fiat's unique fabric/eco-leather upholstery, while the dashboard comes in a distinctive copper fascia. 

There is also an option to add City Brake Control in the model, helping to increase safety in urbanised areas. This technology earned Fiat plaudits at the Euro NCAP Advanced 2013 awards. 

The manufacturer has set an autumn release date for the Panda Cross, with full UK specifications set to be announced closer to the time.

Posted by Louise Clark