The Base Fiat Grande Panda: A Unique Approach to Car Design

A New Twist on Car Dashboards

In a world filled with center screens and touchscreens, Fiat has taken a different approach with the new Grande Panda. This base model of the car comes without a touchscreen, opting instead for a slab of plastic that serves as a constant reminder of the decision not to upgrade to a higher trim level.

While some may find this choice admirable, others may quickly regret not having the convenience and functionality of a touchscreen. However, the Grande Panda does offer a phone mount with a USB port as a consolation.

Austerity in Design

The austerity of the base model doesn't end with the lack of a touchscreen. The Grande Panda also features manually adjustable mirrors, manual air conditioning, and crank rear windows. The little crossover is equipped with 16-inch steel wheels, a far cry from the luxuries found in a typical base model in the United States.

Pricing and Considerations

The base Fiat Grande Panda starts at €18,900 in its domestic market, which includes the 22% value-added tax (VAT) in Italy. While this may not sound like a great deal, it's important to note that other European countries have even higher VAT rates. If customers want the touchscreen, they will need to upgrade to a higher trim level, which comes with a price tag of €1,500 more.

While the Grande Panda may not be suitable for the American market due to its small size, it offers a unique and cost-effective option for European consumers looking for a simple and affordable car.