The new version of the only A-segment 4×4 vehicle, the four-wheel-drive Fiat Panda, will make its debut at the upcoming Paris Motor Show. The Super Panda, as Fiat sometimes refers to it, is surprisingly good off-road despite its compact size. It also looks kind of rugged and tough, which is cool.

The Panda 4×4 is far more than just a jacked-up version of the small city car. Measuring at 368 centimetres long, 167 centimetres wide and 160 centimetres high, the car is fairly roomier and much more practical. The 4×4 gets unique styling details such as revised bumpers with aluminium colour cosmetic inserts and underbody protection. And of course, it’s quite a bit taller.

Inside the cabin the big Panda is pretty much identical to the little Panda, apart from a new green fascia variant framing the instruments and the large storage pocket, fabric seats with a special design in three colour variant (green, beige, orange) and eco-leather details, front and rear door panels also with eco-leather inserts, and new storage cubbies.

The Panda 4×4 will be available with two of the finest engines in the range, the 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir Turbo and the 75 HP 1.3 MultiJet II diesel. They both work in tandem with the car’s 4×4 system, which comes with a “Torque on demand” transmission system with two differentials, and electronically controlled coupling. All that is complemented by the presence of ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system and ELD (Electronic Locking Differential). It’s a tough little car this.

In terms of equipment, the car gets all the basic amenities and features you would expect, including manual climate control system, CD/MP3 radio, 15″ burnished alloy rims, 175/65 R15 M+S tyres, electric rear-view mirrors, central locking system with remote control and rear head restraints. There is also a wide range of options and accessories available.