FIAT has turned back the clock with the new Panda.
It has added an all-wheel-drive version to the new model series, which is what it did two decades ago, and come up with a very useful all-weather runabout.
Don't be put off by its size or lack of horsepower because the really clever bit is how it all comes together on the ground to provide reasonable off-road capability as well as useful safe traction in wintry conditions found on tarmac roads.
The 1.2 engine is not particularly powerful or quiet but it can pull the little Panda along with ease and economy and the gearchange is effortless if a little notchy.
I like the standard power steering for its turning circle but some may find it too light when on slippery surfaces and the brakes do not give a lot of feel although they are very efficient at slowing the car.
The handbrake held on a muddy steep slope to do a faultless, no-slip restart.
In such a small cabin, everything comes immediately to hand - and foot - and the straightforward secondary controls and instruments work well and are very clear.
Oddments room is reasonable even if the individual compartments are small and the modest boot holds just a few shopping bags or a bail of hay, depending upon whether you were feeding family or foal as is this Panda's versatility.
Access into the back is tight but those in front have plenty of room although all seats are on the thin side.
It sits higher on the road than the standard Panda and visibility is excellent all round, making it an ideal car to use off-road. Ride quality is on the firm side but roadholding is good and the handling feels agile.
You can hear how hard the suspension is working and the type of road surface also contributes to the noise in the car, most of which comes from a busy engine when pushed to make the most of the available power.
One-up, the acceleration is not particularly strong and if you had another person aboard or loaded the car, it goes even more slowly.
But with a 4x4, speed is not of the essence and it can get you into more trouble sooner than a softly, softly approach to tackling hazards and overcoming them.
There is a role for the Panda 4x4 if you want a no-nonsense, unpretentious small hatchback which will be used year round and sometimes off-road.
Its running costs are far more manageable than larger off-roaders and this is a point which has made some owners turn their backs on this type of vehicle and buy an MPV or estate car.
With the Panda 4x4 you get an economical and versatile model which will do more than you might expect.
FAST FACTS
Fiat Panda 1.2 4x4 5dr
Price: £9,195
Mechanical: 60bhp, 1,242cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving all four wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 90mph
0-62mph: 20 secs
Combined mpg: 42.8
Insurance group: 2
CO2 emissions: 156g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 8yrs anti-rust