► First ever Waze-optimised car
► App integrates with uConnect
► No UK prices published yet
Waze might be one of the best sat-nav systems in 2018, but would you buy a car because it has Waze in its name? Fiat thinks you might, so it’s released the Panda Waze, a more connected, social-media-minded take on the popular Panda city car.
The new car is the first car to include the Waze name, and although it looks a lot like the Panda Cross on the outside – plus some new badges – while the interior adds new features that set it apart from standard model.
CAR magazine’s Fiat Panda long-term test review
Essentially, Fiat has integrated the Waze navigation app deep into its own Uconnect infotainment app, resulting in a smoother, more seamless experience. Instead of having to manually switch between Waze and Uconnect, the new integration means they can be used simultaneously. For example, you’ll be able to have route instruction in the box, or in the foreground with other features shuffled back.
The Panda Waze runs on 15-inch alloys, has steering wheel stereo controls, six airbags, and everything else you’d expect. The new model will only be offered with a 68bhp 1.2-litre petrol engine at launch, and the price is still TBC. However, the standard Panda City Cross starts at £13,000, so expect to pay a little more than that.
Apart from Waze, the special Panda’s infotainment also includes Bluetooth, voice recognition and the ability to play MP3s from a USB stick.
Would you buy the new Fiat Panda Waze?
As technology becomes an integral part of cars, we’re slowly seeing vehicles actually branded as collaborations between car makers and tech companies. Whether it’s the new Nissan Micra with Bose headrest speakers, or the Volkswagen Polo with Beats, techy city cars and hatchbacks targeted at younger buyers are slowly on the rise.
Interestingly, Fiat’s press release refers to the Panda as the first-ever Waze car, which means there could be more in the future.
But would you buy a car specifically for a Beats sound system or better integration with a navigation app? Let us know in the comments below.
All our Fiat car reviews