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Spyshots: 2012 Fiat Panda Caught for the First Time Testing

2012 Fiat Panda2012 Fiat Panda2012 Fiat Panda2012 Fiat Panda2012 Fiat Panda
Unfortunately for the Italian carmaker, the design of the 2012 Fiat Panda has already been revealed thanks to a leaked patent filing, so there’s really no mystery regarding the shape of the future car’s body. We can now bring you spyshots of the new generation workhorse undergoing hot weather testing.

The next-generation model will adopt an aerodynamic appearance with a rounded hood, a wider grille and more streamlined headlights. There's also a prominent air intake that’s a bit of an exaggeration give the fact that this isn’t exactly a performance machine, a huge rear quarter window and a sloping roofline. The overall proportions of the car remain unchanged, but it’s a bit bigger to make more room inside.

The European minicar segment has seen a number of new additions in the past years, with cars like the second-
generation Ford Ka and new Renault Twingo recently making their appearance felt on the market. Competition from the Toyota iQ minicar, so Fiat won’t have that much of an impact. Volkswagen’s upcoming Lupo minicar based on the recently revealed Up! concept is set to join the fray.

The the most part, the engine range will be borrowed from the 500, with the Panda adopting the current 1.2-liter petrol engine that is expected making 69 hp and the 1.3-liter diesel generating 75 hp. Beside this there is also talk of the efficient 900cc twin-air petrol engine in naturally aspirated and turbocharged formats.

The new Panda is also expected to benefit from both front and all-wheel-drive powertrains, as well as a new-generation of lightweight aluminum engines and possibly a petrol-electric hybrid option. A four-door body will be the only option, and a range-topping ‘Sport’ model will likely be offered once again.
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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