Car Statistics: Fiat - Panda  Series 04 (4 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

Pleasing boxy looks belie the Panda's utilitarian purpose. It's got real character, unlike most of its ultra-bland rivals.

Handling (4 stars)

Keen and spirited up to the relatively modest cornering limits. Proof that you don't need fat tyres and roll-resistant suspension to have a good time. 100HP is great fun to throw into corners, with quick steering and much more grip than the standard Panda.

Comfort (3 stars)

The driving position gets a bit cramped over longer journeys and the ride is bumpy on rougher road surfaces, but the Panda deals with higher speeds surprisingly well for a city car.

Quality (3 stars)

Tough construction - and the cabin materials feel right for the price.

Performance (3 stars)

Even the most powerful JTD diesel engine bestows only limited performance on the Panda, although all feel keen enough in town. 1.2 litre petrol engine responds well to a caning. Of course, performance enthusiasts should opt for the 100HP which, while it only manages 60mph in 9.5 seconds, is one of the most fun cars on the UK market with an enthusiastic, zesty engine.

Roominess (4 stars)

Big for a city car with plenty of room front and rear, although the boot's modest dimensions limit all-out practicality.

Costs (5 stars)

Few cars cost less to run than a Panda, thanks to its combination of decent fuel economy, cheap servicing and low insurance groups.

Value (4 stars)

The Panda can't match rivals like the Kia Picanto on raw value, but equipment levels are respectable by the standards of the segment it's competing in.

Stereo (3 stars)

Audio system struggles to make itself heard at higher speeds. Sat nav untested.

Other

Replacement: 2011

Overall Rating (4 stars)