Fiat Panda (2004 - 2011) 1.2 Dynamic 5d (2007/07) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I've never been concerned enough to think about this before but I'd say practical, unassuming, not aggressive.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Everyone who has seen or been driven in the car likes it, even small car or Fiat cynics.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Definitely. It has ticked all the boxes for me as a reliable, enjoyable, practical and inexpensive to run car.

What are you likely to buy next?

Nothing until the Panda is uneconomical to run. Another Panda if they are still around.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,300

When did you buy the car?

December 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

So it seems. Parker's still list the Franchised Dealer value as £4765 with 20000 miles. I have had the car for 8 months and paid £4300 with 6000 miles on the clock.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Within budget, low insurance, good fuel economy, spacious feel for a small car, previous experience of small Fiats.

What was the dealer like?

Friendly. Problem with payment authorisation (won't try making a big payment by debit card at the weekend again) dealt with sympathetically.

What's it like to drive?

Responsive around town, no problems cruising at 70 mph on the motorway. Steering is precise, some body roll if pushed but it is tall so no complaints. Having had experience of a 55 bhp Punto (1.1 litre engine) glad I went for the slightly larger 1.2 litre engine.

What's it like to park?

Easy. Plenty of glass, rear wheels are pretty much at the corners so reverse parking is a doddle. Sometimes unsure of how much space there is at the front.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Not yet - touch wood. Fill with the usual fluids (haven't had to top up the oil yet), check the tyre pressures, that has been it so far.

What's most practical about your car?

Good seating position and ride height gives good visibility for what is a small car. Parent with restricted mobility has no problems getting in and out. Rear doors make light work of a child seat even in tight parking spaces.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

City button (or the u-turn button as I like to call it) makes the already light steering super-responsive. Great for town driving at low speeds and parking.