by New Body for Fiat Panda
The Fiat company is expanding the Panda model family, testing of new variants is already underway on European roads. Among them is an affordable crossover with a fastback body that combines practicality with an expressive silhouette. The car will be offered with gasoline, mild-hybrid and fully electric powertrains.
Design Evolution
The fastback was first presented as a concept in early 2024 along with the hatchback that became the Grande Panda, as well as an off-roader, pickup and camper. The camouflaged prototype being tested looks more restrained compared to the concept – it has lost some of its extravagance in favor of traditional proportions and a simplified window line.
At the front, the similarity with the Grande Panda is clearly visible: square LED headlights with pixel graphics, a closed radiator grille and a single air intake in the lower part of the bumper. From the side, the long wheelbase and large diameter wheels create an elongated silhouette. The window shape clearly recalls Citroen design, which is explained by shared technologies within the Stellantis group.
Rear End and Technical Features
At the rear, dense camouflage hides the fastback line, but narrow rear light elements mounted high are noticeable, as well as the license plate on the bumper. An inconspicuous exhaust pipe tip under the car indicates that this prototype uses an internal combustion engine.
Concept (top) compared to production version (bottom).
Shared Platform and Market Prospects
Despite the similarity, this model is not related to the Fiat Fastback, which has been sold in South America since 2022. Instead, it shares features with the Citroen Basalt, introduced in 2024 for the markets of India, Brazil, Argentina and Indonesia. This model is technically related to the C3 hatchback and C3 Aircross crossover, but has a coupe-like silhouette.
The new Fiat will be built on the Stellantis Smart Car platform, which is also used by the Grande Panda, Citroen C3, C3 Aircross for the European market and Opel Frontera.
Engines and Future Plans
The engine selection is expected to include a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder unit in gasoline and mild-hybrid versions, as well as a fully electric variant. The chassis is front-wheel drive, but in the future, an all-wheel drive modification similar to the planned Grande Panda 4×4 may be released.
Fiat has confirmed that the full Panda family will be presented by 2027, with the fastback likely to be the first of the new models to go on sale. An official presentation is expected in the coming months.
This crossover could become key for Fiat in the fight for the budget segment, especially in the face of growing competition from Asian manufacturers. The use of a unified platform will reduce costs, making the model attractive for markets where price is a decisive factor. Furthermore, the variety of powertrains meets modern requirements for environmental friendliness and energy efficiency.
