Fiat Panda III (from 2012) – batteries


Choosing the right battery for the Fiat Panda III, produced from 2012 onwards, is essential to ensure the vehicle’s reliability, especially considering the variety of engine types and electrical systems used in this popular city car. The Panda III comes in several configurations, including petrol, diesel, hybrid, LPG, and even all-wheel-drive versions, each with specific battery needs based on the vehicle’s engine and whether it is equipped with a Start-Stop system. These differences directly influence the type, capacity, and cold cranking amperage (CCA) required for optimal performance.

For drivers of the 1.2 petrol version or the 1.2 LPG variant, both without Start-Stop systems, a conventional lead-acid battery is suitable. These models typically require batteries with a capacity between 50 Ah and 54 Ah and a CCA ranging from 420 A to 540 A. These specifications provide enough starting power for everyday use without the extra durability needed for Start-Stop cycles. Some example batteries that fit this category include Bosch S40 02, Exide EB500, and Varta C22. These are standard, widely available models known for reliability and compatibility with older, simpler engine systems.

In contrast, the more technologically advanced variants of the Panda—such as the 1.0 Hybrid, 0.9 TwinAir Start-Stop versions, and the 1.3 Multijet diesel engines—require batteries specifically designed for vehicles with Start-Stop systems. For these cars, EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) technology is necessary. EFB batteries are more robust than standard lead-acid batteries and can endure more frequent charging cycles, which is critical when the engine is turned off and restarted often in traffic. For the 1.0 Hybrid version, which is equipped with Start-Stop technology, an EFB battery with a fixed capacity of 55 Ah and a CCA of 540 A is needed. A suitable option here would be the Exide EL550, among others.

Other Start-Stop Panda models, including the 0.9 TwinAir (in its standard, 4×4, and Natural Power variants) and the 1.3 D Multijet versions, require EFB batteries in the 60–65 Ah range with a CCA between 560 A and 640 A. These versions benefit from strong cold-start performance and a higher cycling endurance to cope with frequent engine restarts. Sample compatible models for these configurations include Bosch S4 E05, Varta N60, and Exide EL600. These batteries are engineered to deliver reliable performance in more demanding urban driving scenarios.

One interesting fact about the Fiat Panda III is that it remains one of the most versatile small cars in Europe, offering configurations rarely seen in this segment—such as four-wheel drive and LPG. The diversity in engine and drivetrain options means that choosing a battery requires close attention to detail. It’s also worth noting that, because of limited space under the hood, battery dimensions should always be double-checked against the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure a perfect fit, even if the amp-hour and CCA ratings are correct.

Drivers should also consider climate and driving habits when selecting a battery. In colder climates or areas with heavy traffic—where Start-Stop engages more frequently—it may be beneficial to opt for a battery closer to the higher end of the capacity and CCA range. Conversely, drivers in milder environments with less city driving might do fine with a more basic option, provided it still meets the minimum technical requirements for their engine type.

In summary, the Fiat Panda III covers a wide range of engine types and technological features, each demanding a specific battery solution. Whether it’s a simple 1.2 petrol model or a more advanced 1.3 diesel with Start-Stop, selecting the correct battery type—be it standard lead-acid or EFB—is crucial for ensuring long-term performance and trouble-free operation. Always refer to the car’s technical specifications and consider verified examples like Bosch, Varta, Exide, or Lucas, keeping in mind that these are just illustrative models and not an exhaustive list.

Fiat Panda in version III is produced from 2012. Below we present the specifications of batteries suitable for specific engines.

Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Fiat Panda (2012-):

LayoutTerminal typesBase hold-down
0 – positive on the right side1B13

Fiat Panda III – petrol engines:
  • 1.2
  • 1.2 LPG

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S4
S40 02
52 Ah
470 A
207x175x190 mmMore
Bosch S5
S50 02
54 Ah
530 A
207x175x190 mmMore
Exide Excell
EB500
50 Ah
450 A
207x175x190 mmMore
Exide Premium
EA530
53 Ah
540 A
207x175x190 mmMore
Halfords Standard
HCB 012
52 Ah
450 A
207x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Premium
LP079
50 Ah
420 A
210x175x190 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic
C22
52 Ah
470 A
207x175x190 mmMore
Varta Silver Dynamic
C30
54 Ah
530 A
207x175x190 mmMore
For Fiat Panda III with 1.2 or 1.2 LPG petrol engines, we use batteries measuring 207x175x190 mm or 210x175x190 mm and with a capacity exceeding 47 Ah (ampere-hours). The weakest of these is the battery Lucas Premium LP079 which capacity is 50 Ah and Cold Cranking Amps is 420 A. The most powerful battery is Bosch S5 S50 02 of a capacity 54Ah and Cold Cranking Amps: 530 A. All of the above motors have a base hold-down B13.

Fiat Panda III – petrol engines:
  • 0.9 – with Start-Stop
  • 0.9 4×4 – with Start-Stop
  • 0.9 Natural Power – with Start-Stop

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S4 EFB
S4 E05
60 Ah
560 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Exide EFB
EL600
60 Ah
640 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Halfords Advanced
EFB 027
65 Ah
600 A
243x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Fusion EFB
LE027
60 Ah
560 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic EFB
D53
60 Ah
560 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic EFB
N60
60 Ah
640 A
242x175x190 mmMore
The Fiat Panda III gasoline engines mentioned above are equipped with a Start-Stop system, and in this case, it means there is a need to use batteries produced using EFB technology. The dimensions of batteries suitable for 0.9, 0.9 4×4 and 0.9 Natural Power engines vary slightly among different manufacturers and are: 242x175x190 mm or 243x175x190 mm. The parameters of these batteries are at least 60 Ah of a capacity and 560 A CCA (Cold Cranking Amps). All the batteries in the list above have a base hold-down B13.

Fiat Panda III – petrol engines:
  • 1.0 Hybrid – with Start-Stop

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Exide EFB
EL550
55 Ah
540 A
207x175x190 mmMore
Owning a Fiat Panda III with a 1.0 Hybrid engine and Start-Stop system means there is a need to use more expensive batteries made with EFB technology. Matching batteries have dimensions 207x175x190 mm. All the batteries in the list above have a base hold-down B13.

Fiat Panda III – diesel engines:
  • 1.3 D Multijet – with Start-Stop
  • 1.3 D Multijet 4×4 – with Start-Stop

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S4 EFB
S4 E05
60 Ah
560 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Exide EFB
EL600
60 Ah
640 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Halfords Advanced
EFB 027
65 Ah
600 A
243x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Fusion EFB
LE027
60 Ah
560 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic EFB
D53
60 Ah
560 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic EFB
N60
60 Ah
640 A
242x175x190 mmMore
1.3 D Multijet or 1.3 D Multijet 4×4 engines in the Fiat Panda III with Start-Stop system require the use of EFB technology batteries. Dimensions of matching batteries differ slightly depending on the manufacturer and are 242x175x190 mm or 243x175x190 mm. The parameters of these batteries are at least 60 Ah of a capacity and 560 A CCA (Cold Cranking Amps). All the batteries in the list above have a base hold-down B13.
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Fiat Panda , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!

See also information about other cars of this manufacturer

Fiat 500 (2007-) battery
Fiat 500C Convertible (2009-) battery
Fiat 500L (2012-) battery
Fiat 500X (2014-) battery
Fiat Barchetta (1995-2005) battery
Fiat Brava (1995-2002) battery
Fiat Bravo I (182) (1995-2002) battery
Fiat Bravo II (198) (2007-2014) battery
Fiat Cinquecento (1991-1999) battery
Fiat Croma I (154) (1985-1996) battery
Fiat Croma II (194) (2005-2011) battery
Fiat Doblo I (2000-2009) battery
Fiat Doblo II (2010-) battery
Fiat Ducato I (1981-1994) battery
Fiat Ducato II (230L) (1994-2002) battery
Fiat Ducato II FL (244) (2002-2006) battery
Fiat Ducato III (250) (2006-) battery
Fiat Fiorino III (2007-) battery
Fiat Freemont (2011-2016) battery
Fiat Grande Punto (2005-2012) battery
Fiat Idea (2003-2012) battery
Fiat Linea (2007-2015) battery
Fiat Marea (1996-2002) battery
Fiat Multipla I (1999-2004) battery
Fiat Multipla II (2004-2010) battery
Fiat Palio I (1996-2011) battery
Fiat Palio Weekend I (1996-2011) battery
Fiat Panda I (1980-2003) battery
Fiat Panda II (2003-2012) battery
Fiat Punto I (1993-1999) battery
Fiat Punto II (1999-) battery
Fiat Sedici (2005-2014) battery
Fiat Seicento (1997-2010) battery
Fiat Stilo (2001-2010) battery
Fiat Tipo (2015-) battery


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