The Grande Panda, the first model in FIAT’s new global product range and launched in Turkey last month, has been named a finalist in the prestigious European Car of the Year 2026 (COTY) competition. Selected from 35 brands/models by a jury composed of members from 23 European countries, the Grande Panda stands out for its flexible, versatile, and multi-energy platform that addresses the needs and expectations of customers across diverse markets.
By advancing to the final voting stage of the competition, FIAT celebrates this achievement as proof of its innovative stance and passion for producing cars that make life better for everyone. The winning brand and model will be announced on January 9, 2026, during the Brussels International Motor Show.
The “Grande Panda,” which was launched in Turkey in October and is the first model in FIAT‘s new global product range, has been selected as one of the seven finalists for the European Car of the Year 2026 (COTY) award. In this prestigious competition, featuring 60 jury members from 23 European countries, the models deemed most deserving of the championship were selected from 35 brands/models based on the jury’s consensus. Following the first major evaluation conducted by the COTY (Car of the Year) juries during the Tannistest in Denmark last September, the finalists were officially announced, with the FIAT Grande Panda proudly earning its spot.
The “Grande Panda,” the first FIAT model developed on the Stellantis Smart Car Platform, represents more than just a car for FIAT. The “family car,” which pioneers a new model family set to be launched in the coming years, also holds social significance thanks to its flexible, versatile, and multi-energy platform that meets the needs and expectations of customers across various markets. The Grande Panda offers a tangibly pragmatic, inclusive, and affordable solution for consumers worldwide. Furthermore, with its compact dimensions and unique character, the model reflects FIAT‘s core values: functionality, sustainability, and emotional design.
Inspired by the spirit of freedom and mobility of the original Panda from the 1980s, the model draws attention with its bold design proportions, strong lines, PXL LED headlights, cube-shaped rear lights, and distinctive 3D ‘PANDA’ lettering on the doors. In line with FIAT‘s “No Grey” policy of not producing cars in grey, the Grande Panda is available in seven different vibrant color options that reflect the energy of the Italian lifestyle.
The interior continues to focus on smart, user-centric design, offering best-in-class shoulder room, flexible storage options, and intuitive technologies adapted to daily life. The main interior theme also includes a special color tone called Blu Tasmania, which perfectly complements the car’s colorful character. Unique styling elements, such as the instrument cluster that evokes the iconic test track at Lingotto, the touchscreen multimedia display, and the front and rear lights composed of cubes reminiscent of the windows of the Lingotto Factory, define the Grande Panda‘s distinctive style.
The FIAT Grande Panda is available with an electric motor option in Turkey. By advancing to the final voting phase of the competition, FIAT celebrates this success as proof of its innovative stance and passion for producing better cars for everyone.
