Alexandre
Fiat has just launched its Grande Panda, which seems to have met with initial success. a large number of orders in just a few weeks. But after launching the 500 and 600, will Fiat dare to take a new step by launching a Abarth of the Grande Panda? If it does, here's what it could look like.
It's nothing new for Fiat to be thinking about a sporty version of the Panda. In an interview with AutoWeek magazine in 2022, Fiat boss Olivier François said that he had already considered a Panda Abarth in the past. However, according to him at the time, strict regulations on CO2 emissions made the idea impossible, especially for a combustion version. With the advent of electric motorization, this vision is once again a possibility.
"This electric Panda could have an Abarth version," says Olivier François, an idea that was not previously conceivable, but which now makes sense with the development of the electric market.
Of course, an Abarth model is more than just a badge. It's a redesigned version, pushing the limits of performance. So, what might this Grande Panda Abarth look like? First of all, you need to know that this Fiat Grande Panda is based on the Smartcar platformwhich is not really designed for high performance.
For an Abarth, several modifications would be necessary. The first notable change would concern the engine. It's likely that the Abarth version of the Panda will be equipped with emotors, with either the 156 hp M3 or, for greater performance, the 240 to 280 hp M4 (currently in the Abarth 600e). This power would be accompanied by enhanced technical features, such as a Torsen differential, to improve grip and handling.
The braking system would also have to be adapted to cope with this increase in power. Such a model would require substantial investment, particularly in the battery and power management update to guarantee optimum performance while maintaining satisfactory autonomy.
However, such a project would not be immediate. Although the idea is attractive, Fiat seems to be concentrating first on the base version of the Grande Panda, and the brand is planning several variations to meet different needs. These include a 4×4 version is already in the pipelineas well as a more affordable version with a smaller battery.
The Abarth version could wait a few years. According to our estimates, a release would only be possible from 2028, once Fiat has introduced its new Giga-Panda and Fastback models. By that time, Stellantis will also have launched its own LFP battery plant in Spain in 2026, which could allow Fiat to invest in niche versions such as the Panda Abarth. It would also give Fiat time to refine its plans and test the viability of its new models in the marketplace.
Last but not least, Abarth models are a huge success in Brazil, Fiat's biggest market. The Abarth Pulse and Abarth Fastback are already popular there, and demand for sporty vehicles continues to grow. With the Brazilian market in high demand for sporty versions of Fiat models, an Abarth Grande Panda, developed specifically for this market, could have great potential. But will this pro-ethanol market embrace the electric model?
So a 240hp Abarth model, based on the Grande Panda, doesn't seem totally impossible, but this will depend on Fiat's priorities and the evolution of the electric car market. By 2028, Olivier François' idea could be a reality. So, what do you think? Are you tempted by a 240hp Abarth Grande Panda?
Kleber Silva's illustration with the 500-style daytime running lights doesn't really make sense... and I also have my doubts about the appeal of such an Abarth Panda. In my opinion, Fiat should devote all its resources to offering electric models with the option of a battery of at least 58kWh, adopt the Snapdragon cockpit, make progress on the on-board and mobile app, focus on ease of use for EV beginners, look after the reliability of future SUVs and SUV coupes, and on the thermal side offer a good experience with the GSE hybrid on the 500 so that it has the power to match its weight. A Grande Panda 4×4 would also have no competition with the end of the Jimny. With a plethoric range (which is far from being the case today), Fiat should, for image's sake, reintroduce a barchetta based on an improved STLA Small. And collaborations for special versions of the 500 and 600.
Abarth electric 😭
MA come si fa a pensare di produrre un Abarth su una macchina come la Grande Panda? 1) il motore elettrico per una Abarth non è pesabile 2) una 5 porte con la linea squadrata non ha nulla che ricorda un Abarth. Le Abarth devono essere macchine sportive anche di produzione, ma devono avere 2/3 porte. Produrre una Grande Panda Abarth significa NON VENDERLA. Non è una questione di coraggio ma di coerenza.
Oliver Francois is daydreaming a lot nowadays. First about a future Punto-revival (which is obviously not in development) then now about Abarth Grande Panda. Maybe deliver some sales numbers with the mass-market cars Fiat already has in production before contemplating about variants that would obviously be niche products?