Fiat Panda 4x4

As with the original Panda, Fiat has now added a 4x4 model to replace those old-timers still in action in ski resorts and remote farming outposts. The old car had quite a following and the new model looks set to continue this tradition. Once again, its light weight gives it abilities over and above what you would expect of a small, cheap, 1.2 litre 4x4. It's a front-wheel-drive car until things start to get slippery, then up to half the engine power is fed to the rear wheels automatically. On-road stability is much improved in slippery conditions and it really is quite capable off-road too thanks to its increased ride height and sump guard. So good in fact that it would be a waste not to have a play in the mud from time to time.

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Lacks the low ratios and diff-locks of serious off-roaders, but makes do without them on account of its light weight. Permanent four-wheel-drive system powers the front wheels until they slip then sends power to the rears too. All the essential equipment is included plus a few extras like follow-me-home headlights, intelligent wipers and city parking mode and options like parking sensors are available.

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