New Fiat Tipo and Panda (Red) models unveiled

Following its announcement with charity partner (RED) last year, Fiat has launched two new (RED) special-edition models, based on the Panda and the Tipo. Prices for the former start from £15,755, while the latter is priced from £23,595.

Both new models will help support the charity, which was founded by Bono from the band U2 and Bobby Shriver in 2006 to fund research into AIDS. However, given the current global situation, the charity has since broadened its reach to help combat the Covid-19 pandemic.

Fiat has already launched a (RED)-branded version of the 500 city car and, with a little help from these two new special-edition models, the firm plans to contribute $4 million (around £2.9 million) to the charitable cause over the next three years.

The new Panda model is based on the City Cross trim level and therefore wears chunky body cladding, 15-inch alloy wheels and tough-looking skid-plates. There’s also a (RED) badge for the B-pillar, red door mirror caps and a choice of four paint finishes: Passione Red, Colosseo Grey, Gelato White and Cinema Black.

There’s only one engine choice for the new Panda, Fiat’s 1.0-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid petrol unit, which develops 69bhp and offers a 0-62mph time of 13.9 seconds. Fiat’s reasoning behind this choice is that it’s the most sustainable option in the line-up, with CO2 emissions from as low as 126g/km.

The new Tipo edition is based on the hatchback’s SUV-inspired Cross trim-level, and it features the same styling tweaks you’ll find on the special-edition Panda. However, it’s powered by a slightly more potent version of Fiat’s naturally aspirated 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol unit, producing 99bhp.

Both cars also feature Seaqual Yarn seat upholstery, which is a sustainable fabric made entirely from recycled polyester yarn. As the name hints at, 10 per cent of the raw materials for the cloth come from reclaimed marine plastic waste.

To date, (RED) has raised $700 million (around £516 million) for the Global Fund through partnerships with brands such as Apple, Girl Skateboards, Montblanc, Primark and Italian scooter manufacturer Vespa. The company also says that all the money it raises goes to strengthening the healthcare systems in regions hit hardest by pandemics.

Now read about our Fiat 500 long-term test review...