mmm 71
MOTORS
Fiat
Debut for 4x4 THE end of September saw the new Fiat Panda 4x4 made is debut at the international Paris Motor Show – and in doing so became the only four-wheel drive model in this sector. The successor to a best seller which first appeared almost 30 years ago, today’s thirdgeneration four-wheel drive Panda promises to be ready to tackle mountain mule tracks and the urban jungle in the same assured manner.
In addition to standard equipment the new Panda 4x4 has been further improved to reassert its capacity to compete with off-road vehicles of much greater dimensions and higher prices. The Panda 4x4 is equipped with a torque-on-demand transmission system with two differentials and an electronically controlled coupling. This is a permanent four-wheel drive system managed by an electronic control unit which, by analysing vehicle signals, distributes traction on the front and rear axle according to road grip conditions. The advantages of
this system are that it is entirely automatic in operation and requires no maintenance. The Panda 4x4 features an ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system with an ELD (Electronic Locking Differential) function as standard. This system provides additional assistance while driving and setting-off uphill on slippery terrain. Two engine versions of the Fiat Panda 4x4 will become available; the new 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir Turbo and the 75 HP 1.3 MultiJet II diesel. Full prices and details to follow.