Tokyo Motor Show - Fiat

What’s on show that I can actually buy?
Fiat pulled the wraps off a new Panda special edition in Tokyo: the Alessi.

Developed by the Italian designer known for curvy cheese graters, groovy teapots and other such kitchen paraphernalia, it includes a series of cosmetic flourishes to mark it out from regular Panda city cars.

What’s new about it?
Alessi special-edition cars wear a bespoke bodykit, adding white side skirts and wheel arches bearing the Alessi signature, unique wheel trims, white bumpers and roof rails and numerous other changes.

It’s an unusual-looking but striking package, although many UK buyers might find it too gauche.

What about inside?
The cabin is distinguished by a colour-coded centre console, a metal gearknob, special seat fabric and instrument graphics. It’s more subtle than the bright and breezy exterior.

When is it going on sale?
Fiat says the Alessi will arrive in Europe next spring. Expect prices to be set a few hundred pounds higher than mainstream Panda models.

Anything else?
Apart from the Panda Alessi, Fiat’s stand was pretty empty. Only the new Grande Punto, unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show last month, was on show alongside the Panda special edition.