We have recently been lucky enough to have two of the new Fiat Panda variants on test – the top of the range AUD$24K diesel-engined Trekking and the model sporting the new 875cc TwinAir Turbo two cylinder petrol engine.

We also invited one of our local florist friends, Lia, to test drive the Panda to see if it really is, as we thought, an ideal car for florists. Watch it here (there’s a great – unscripted – bit at the end)…

ItalianCar Test Drive Findings

Range with full tank (as reported by onboard computer): 716km
Test start: 2620km
Test finish: 2943km
Distance driven: 323km
Fuel used: 24.9l
Consumption: 7.71l/100km
Consumption (as reported by onboard computer): 5.4l/100km

Other notes

• Radio doesn’t turn off with ignition, but does turn off ~5mins after car locked
• Rear seats don’t fold all the way down
• Tomtom currently included in package – otherwise +$800
• Good turning circle
• Filler cap limits diesel smell and spillage very well

PS for the full spec on the new model, see our previous article

PPS having just read our copy of Top Gear Australia, it appears that none other than James May is a Panda owner and fan. If you’re a florist maybe you won’t know who he is…