Used test – clever city cars: Fiat Panda vs Skoda Citigo

Both of these used city cars rely on neat design to save you pennies without making you feel like a pauper. But which is best?...

Used test – clever city cars: Fiat Panda vs Skoda Citigo

Our Verdict

The Fiat Panda’s funky looks make it rather tempting. Not only that, but its tiny two-cylinder engine packs far more punch than it has any right to. Inside, the Panda’s sense of style continues, with interior styling that’s very pleasing to the eye.

The problem is, there’s an air of style over substance here, because the Panda’s beauty isn’t really much more than skin-deep. Its noisy engine and bouncy ride make it less than enjoyable to drive around town; its equipment list could be more extensive, too, and the slightly cramped rear quarters do it no favours.

All of which leaves the Skoda Citigo to take the win in this test. True, it isn’t quite as fun to look at as the Fiat and the same can be said of its plain interior. But neither is it ugly; indeed, some might find the Citigo’s more reserved styling, both inside and outside, a little more grown-up.

And that’s before we get to the Skoda’s other plusses. Not only is it more spacious than the Fiat, but you get more equipment and a much smoother engine. The ride is more composed, too, and the Citigo’s better fun to drive. True, it’s a little more expensive to buy than the Panda, but it’s worth the extra.

Read our review of the new Skoda Citigo

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1st – Skoda Citigo

 

Used test – clever city cars: Fiat Panda vs Skoda Citigo

For Great to drive; roomy inside; loads of equipment; smooth engine

Against Can feel slow; dull interior styling; high boot sill

Verdict A superb used city car that has no major weaknesses

Rated 5 out of 5

Read the full Skoda Citigo review

Find a used Skoda Citigo in the What Car? Classifieds


2nd – Fiat Panda

 

Used test – clever city cars: Fiat Panda vs Skoda Citigo

For Funky looks inside and out; punchy engine

Against Noisy engine; unsettled ride; stingy equipment

Verdict Not without appeal, but well beaten by a brilliant rival

Rated 3 out of 5

Read the full Fiat Panda review

Find a used Fiat Panda in the What Car? Classifieds


Specifications: Skoda Citigo 1.0 75 Greentech Elegance 5dr

Engine size 1.0-litre petrol

List price when new £10,370

Price today £5000

Power 74bhp

Torque 70lb ft

0-60mph 13.2sec

Top speed 107mph

Fuel economy 67.3mpg (Official average)

CO2 emissions 98g/km


Specifications: Fiat Panda 0.9 Twinair 85

Engine size 0.9-litre petrol

List price when new £10,750

Price today £4500

Power 84bhp

Torque 107lb ft

0-60mph 11.2sec

Top speed 110mph

Fuel economy 67.3mpg (Official average)

CO2 emissions 0g/km

Price today is based on a 2013 model with average mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing

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