Until recently, the Panda 4×4 was the only full four-wheel drive car in the supermini class, but it’s just been joined by Suzuki’s Swift 4×4. Neither car is expensive, but the Italian firm now has an even lower-cost alternative with the Panda Trekking. It has the same raised ride height and exterior body cladding as the full 4×4, but instead of four driven wheels it gets a trick traction control system that makes it better able to cope with slippery surfaces than your average small hatchback.
It’s a good idea and one that’s relevant because public sector workers such as district nurses need affordable cars that can access remote areas. At £13,440 and 35.9ppm, it’s £1500 cheaper than the ‘proper’ Panda 4×4 diesel at £14,940 and 40.2ppm. Equally, you could have a Twinair petrol 4×4 for £13,940 and 38.3ppm.
