Alexandre
It's time for a showdown between two automotive giants: the Fiat Grande Panda against the Renault 5. On the one hand, the B-SUV from Fiat which attempts to redefine the codes of the first Panda, and on the other, a revisited mythical model, the Renault 5, which enters the electric world with style. But on paper, which of these two novelties deserves the title of best?
A comparison of characteristics
Let's start by taking a look at the technical specifications of the two vehicles, which at first glance have very similar features:
| Fiat Grande Panda RED | Renault R5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3,9m | 3,9m |
| Box | 361L | 326L |
| Power | 113 ea. | 120 hp |
| 0 to 100 km/h | 11 sec | 9 sec |
| Battery | 44 kWh | 40 kWh |
| Maximum load power | 100 kW | 100 kW |
| Fuel consumption (100 km) | 16.8 kWh | 14.8 kWh |
| Autonomy | 320 km | 312 km |
| Main equipment | 16″ steel wheels 10″ screen multimedia system Manual air conditioning Front and rear power windows Rear parking radar Speed regulator | 18″ steel wheels 10″ screen multimedia system Automatic air conditioning Front and rear power windows Rear parking radar Speed regulator |
| Price | 25 000 € | 28 000 € |
Design: the key element
While the technical specifications are very similar, it's the design that makes all the difference. The Renault 5, with its revisited retro look, has won unanimous acclaim and has even been crowned "Car of the Year 2025". With its classic charm and modern silhouette, it's a real eye-catcher and a dream come true for fans of iconic cars. In its least expensive version, the Renault 5 features black bodywork and 18″ gray steel wheels.
The Fiat Grande Panda, on the other hand, has a more distinctive design. You either love it or you hate it. Its slightly rougher, more massive side may appeal to those looking for a functional, practical car, but its styling certainly appeals less to everyone. In its least expensive version, the Fiat Grande Panda is offered with red bodywork and 16″ steel wheels.
Roominess: a key point
Another factor that can tip the balance is habitability. The Renault 5's design favors the exterior, but its interior suffers as a result. Passenger space is a little smaller than that of the Fiat Grande Panda, which boasts more generous room for its passengers. The glazed surface area is also larger, which enhances brightness and the perception of space.
The difference is in design and habitability
Ultimately, the Renault 5 is an obvious choice for those who want a car with undeniable looks and dynamic driving, with a design that has already entered the hearts of many motorists. But if habitability and practicality are more important to you, the Fiat Grande Panda stands out as a more reasonable choice, with better use of space for a slightly lower price. A final point in favor of the Grande Panda is that it is available as a hybrid thermal model from €19,000.
The Panda's design is also very strong, and it's worth noting that the same person designed both models. As for the efficiency of the Renault engine, I have huge doubts about the average fuel consumption claimed. On the other hand, Renault has a huge lead when it comes to software and on-board chips, and Stellantis still hasn't understood that this is an essential element in an electric car. By always wanting to sell for less, we sell less, with models that don't measure up to the competition. On a positive note, cost killer Tavares has been fired, and his right-hand man, Yves Bonnefont, who was promoted to head of software (after having totally failed with DS), followed suit a few days ago, fortunately replaced by Ned Curic, the current vice-president of Alexa Automotive and a former FCA employee.
I meant former Toyota, a company where reliability still means something.