The 4x4 uses a different rear suspension set up than the FWD version.
I have not seen any reports of problems with them like the beams on the FWD cars, but I am not saying don't check it properly.
The major issue on FWD cars are the lower spring seats themselves AND where they attach to the rest of the rear beam axle.
These versions are getting on a bit now and we've seen some issues with the prop shaft centre support bearing wearing out, this causes some thumping and knocking from the driveline, it's possible to recon it if you know where to go.
The actual 4x4 system changed for some models.
Climbings used a viscous type coupling on the nose of the rear diff, I've seen a thread where this needed reconditioning (think a Land Rover specialist did it).
It's engagement is totally automatic.
Later (New) models and all Panda Cross models use an electro pneumatic coupling, these engage automatically, but also have some form of manual control inside the car. (button or dial)
I've seen one of two that have suffered with solenoid or wiring issues to the pneumatic actuator, though this is few and far from common.
The rest is pretty much basic used car stuff, pay particular attention to the suspension and steering.
The PAS is electric and they have been know to fail.
Steering warning lights, tugging one way or losing assistance altogether may be just the battery, but it could be the motor or torque sensor as well.
Suspension parts tend to rust, like the springs or wear out, like rear shock bushes.
A bit of clonking is probably expected, though it's not expensive to sort out.
The petrol Climbings use the 1.2, 60hp, FIRE engine, it's pretty reliable and solid if serviced properly, but it's worth noting the gearing is quite low and the engine isn't that grunty, so it's possible it'll have had a bit of a mean life, thrashed from the lights as 0-60 is awfully slow for a modern car and MPG won't be sparkling.
It's a non interference cambelt engine so it's safe.
The Cross (and some european Climbing models) uses the 1.3 Multijet diesel, this is prone to a few common issues like all modern diesels. EGR, Turbo wastegate jamming, injector and pump wear, I think it also has a dual mass flywheel.
It has more grunt and MPG should be much better, but there is a possible trade off with reliability (repair cost as well, they aren't too diy friendly) and all but the latest, cleanest diesels will soon be ushered off the road by legislation.
Poor servicing tends to cause the cam chain to stretch, jump or fail, seen lots of this in the Doblo vans with the same engine.
Whichever you go for, be patient.
There aren't that many around, but you really need to hold out for a good one.
Jumping at something a bit worse for wear because you don't know when the next one will show up will likely end up costing you.
Probably out of budget, but the newer model 4x4 is a much better car all around.
With it's clever power/traction management system it's pretty peerless when things get tricky.
