Used Fiat Panda for sale near Southend-On-Sea

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.1 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.9%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.9 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 200
Average Price: Around £4,300

Fiat Panda (2012-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Affordable to buy and cheap to run	Lacks the safety features of more modern rivals
4x4 versions are handy for country-dwellers	The Panda isn't very well equipped
Cute and distinctive looks	Not as fun to drive as a Ford Fiesta

Quick Summary

The Fiat Panda (2012-present) is a characterful, practical, and inexpensive city car that plays to the Italian brand's strengths. It offers generous interior space for its class and a surprisingly decent-sized boot, enhanced by rear seats that can slide to prioritise either passenger or luggage room. However, the Panda is let down significantly by its safety credentials, having received a zero-star Euro NCAP crash test rating in 2018 due to a lack of modern safety aids and poor child occupant protection.

On the road, the Panda is a competent and easy-to-drive companion with a comfortable ride. Engine choices on the used market include the efficient 1.2-litre petrol and the characterful 0.9-litre Twinair, though buyers should be wary of the unreliable Dualogic automatic gearbox. Running costs are a major strength, with low insurance, good fuel economy, and straightforward maintenance. While flawed, the Panda's charm, practicality, and affordability make it a compelling choice for those on a budget.

Best for: City drivers looking for a cheap-to-run and practical car, buyers who value character over performance, and those in rural areas seeking a used, affordable 4x4.

Not ideal for: Buyers who prioritise safety, especially those carrying children, or anyone seeking the latest in-car technology and driver aids.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Panda if: You want a characterful and practical city car that is very affordable to buy and run, or if you need the rare capability of a small, used 4x4.

Consider alternatives if: Safety is your top priority, you need modern equipment, or you want a car that is more engaging and fun to drive.

Competitive Position: The Fiat Panda is a car with a lot of heart, offering practicality and low running costs in a charming package. However, its appeal is severely hampered by its poor safety rating, which places it well behind safer and better-equipped rivals like the Skoda Fabia or Kia Picanto. Its unique selling point remains the surprisingly capable 4x4 versions on the used market, which offer a rare blend of small size and all-wheel-drive traction.

Read our full Fiat Panda Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from February 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.