Fiat Panda 1,2 Elegenza vs Renault Modus 1.4

blazzz2016

Hi all. Looking at getting a small family car, young family of 3. We have a toddler and so something to and from work that is spacious for a pram and weekly shop.

I've done a bit of research on running costs and parts and there doesn't seem to be much difference. Same with the insurance.

Which would you guys recommend?
Reliability?
Perhaps someone who has owned either or better yet, both?

I know the Panda is popular but I have always been weary about the Italians when it comes to reliability.

TIA :beer:

Glover1862

Family member bought a Modus a few years back, very good car, it's based on the Nissan micra so good mechanicals.

facade

Glover1862 wrote: »

Family member bought a Modus a few years back, very good car, it's based on the Nissan micra so good mechanicals.

No no no, it is based on a the Renault clio, so comes with Renault mechanicals and wiring.:(

The Nissan Note is based on the Modus platform, the consensus on t'interweb (do a google on modus versus note) is the Note is better put together. I have a Note, and if that is the case the Modus must be truly awful! :eek:

colin79666

Well mechanically the Fiat is pretty reliable. The 1.2 "fire" engine has been on the go for years and is pretty simple to maintain. Fiat trim and electrics quality isn't the best (coming from someone who has owned 2 Grande Puntos).

Assuming you are looking at 3+ year old 2nd hand then go with whichever example is in the best condition.

I'd suggest you also check out the Honda Jazz if reliability is one of your priorities.

agrinnall

I did 70,000 miles in my Panda and never had any mechanical or electrical problems - that was a 2008 1.2 Eleganza bought new. There was a recall to have a suspension issue fixed but it had never caused me any problems and was done free of charge in just a few hours.

blazzz2016

Thank you for the valuable information guys. I will take that on board as I decide which vehicle to purchase.

blazzz2016

colin79666 wrote: »

Well mechanically the Fiat is pretty reliable. The 1.2 "fire" engine has been on the go for years and is pretty simple to maintain. Fiat trim and electrics quality isn't the best (coming from someone who has owned 2 Grande Puntos).

Assuming you are looking at 3+ year old 2nd hand then go with whichever example is in the best condition.

I'd suggest you also check out the Honda Jazz if reliability is one of your priorities.

I'll have a look at the Honda Jazz as well, thanks .:beer:

worried_jim

Honda Jazz every time. End of.

Hintza

We are on the third Panda now. Solid wee cars with a good ride height for tracks etc (if that is relevant) simple easy non interference engine so if the cam belt goes you don't trash the engine. Parts are dirt cheap and plenty of second hand parts on ebay.

I think they are great. Perhaps not the plushest but hey ho.

david_a

The Jazz has a handy party trick where the rear seat base folds up to give a large load area. Modus is rather boring. Pandas are cheap tax. If you are on a low budget consider the Ford Fusion.