The 'experts' in Met Eireann say that temperatures are, for the first time this winter, to drop below zero over the coming week. So the latest announcement from Fiat regarding the Panda 4x4 could not be timelier as we begin to envision a white winter.
Taking the myth that four-wheel drive cars are both expensive to buy and harmful to the environment and turning it on its head Fiat Ireland is offering the Panda 4x4 from just €14,295 making it the most affordable four-wheel drive in the country. But this is not just a marketing ploy of raising the suspension and adding a lame 4x4 system. The Panda 4x4 is equipped with on-demand (and lockable) all-wheel drive, special 14-inch alloy wheels with mud-and-snow tyres, beefed-up styling and of course increased ground clearance thanks to revised suspension.
The Panda 4x4 also comes equipped with air conditioning, front fog lights, roof rails, remote central locking, electric front windows and a 69hp 1.2-litre engine that uses 6.0 litres/100km on the combined cycle and falls into Tax Band B - meaning €156 per year for road tax.
Demand for the Panda 4x4 across Europe has been strong so the number of Irish cars is limited and expected to sell out quickly.