The latest offering from Fiat, the Grande Panda, will be available with two powertrain options: the Hybrid model and a traditional internal combustion engine version with a six-speed manual transmission. While the ICE version has not been confirmed for the UK market yet, Fiat has also unveiled a 4×4 concept based on the Grande Panda, which is expected to use a similar hybrid powertrain.
The T-Gen3 hybrid powertrain in the Grande Panda consists of a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine connected to a 48V battery and a six-speed e-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission. An electric motor producing 29bhp is integrated into the transmission system along with an inverter and central control unit. This setup allows the vehicle to operate on electric power alone at low speeds, offering up to 0.6 miles of electric-only range at speeds below 18mph.
Although the hybrid powertrain in the Grande Panda may not match the smooth power delivery or instant acceleration of a fully electric vehicle, it performs admirably for a small three-cylinder engine. Surprisingly, the hybrid model is quicker than the Electric version in the 0-62mph sprint, achieving a time of 10 seconds compared to 11 seconds.
The 109bhp engine delivers power smoothly, with the hybrid system filling in any gaps in power delivery and providing electric-only propulsion at lower speeds. The e-DCT transmission complements the powertrain well, ensuring adequate performance for everyday driving and maintaining stability at motorway speeds. While the powertrain may lack refinement and can sound rough under hard acceleration, it offers a satisfactory driving experience for daily use.
Overall, the Fiat Grande Panda Hybrid combines the efficiency of hybrid technology with the practicality of a compact car, making it a compelling choice for environmentally-conscious drivers. Stay tuned for more updates on the availability of the ICE version and the upcoming 4×4 variant based on this hybrid powertrain.
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