The Panda’s hybrid drive system helped it to deliver 50mpg-plus in regular driving, but the Sandero came closer to its official figure on test, at 44.5mpg. It also has the bigger fuel tank (50 litres to the Fiat’s 44 litres), so it can go further between fills.
Practicality
Smaller dimensions mean that while the Panda is great to manoeuvre around town, interior space is at a premium – it’s really a four-seater with an occasional fifth seat in the back, and boot space is awkward, too.
The Sandero is bigger overall, and while boot space is marginally down on the Fiat’s (410 litres to 412 litres), it’s better shaped and has a lower load lip, plus there’s space for a spare wheel below.
Safety
While a two-star rating doesn’t sound promising for the Sandero, it doesn’t mean that it’s an unsafe car; it’s just that it doesn’t meet the high standards set by Euro NCAP. At least Dacia has tested it – the newer Panda hasn’t been rated at all. Both cars have lane-assist and speed-limit warning deactivation, with the Dacia’s system allowing you to set up all of the safety systems at the press of a button.
Ownership
Standard three-year/60,000-mile warranties are the order of the day here, yet Dacia has a service-based offering that allows you to extend the cover to seven years or 75,000 miles with annual franchise servicing. Maintenance and insurance costs are better value for the Sandero than they are for the Panda, although the Sandero’s lowly Driver Power position is a little concerning.
Verdict
Winner: Fiat Grande Panda
This test is a close call, but we’ve put the Grande Panda ahead because of its smoother and more efficient powertrain, stylish looks and the great way that Fiat has managed to disguise the car’s budget leanings with plenty of neat design touches.
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