General City mode

[smc4761]

The Panda has a City mode for driving, which is great when parking. Do people use this for normal driving as well

 

[MickG]

I just use it for parallel parking and even then only if it looks like it'll be a squeeze. It is great for that though.

Take it easy,
M

 

[quotethepigeon]

I used it all the time in the model just gone , even pottering around. It doesn't seem to make MUCH difference on the newer one in my opinion so I don't bother.

 

[PandaMambo]

I think it cuts off over a certain speed. I don't use mine, but my wife uses it on her panda.
Steering on my 4x4 TA is a bit heavier than the old 1.2 mkII, but I think I prefer it.
(bigger heavier tyres for a start)

 

[ambient white]

I don't use it on the Panda 4x4 or my wife's Trekking. It makes the steering too light for my tastes.

 

[gar074]

I don't use it on the Panda 4x4 or my wife's Trekking. It makes the steering too light for my tastes.

^ This ^

At speed, it makes the steering so light that it's easy to lose directional stability, especially on twisty, bumpy roads (i.e. the whole of Norfolk and Suffolk)

 

[Panda 4x4 TA Antarctica]

Allegedly, it cuts out over a certain speed, but the steering still feels lighter at speed than with it turned off. I'll sometimes leave it on around town, but usually knock it off once venturing onto de-restricted roads, dual carriageway etc.
To be honest, whether it's on or not is largely dictated by how the wife left it! It is very handy round multi-storeys and for parking - we love it.

 

[Squadrone Rosso]

I think it's a great system.

Don't like Eco mode though unless in town traffic.

 

[Tom95]

I don't think I've ever used it. Coming from a car without power steering, 'normal mode' steering is plenty light enough...

 

[triumph7]

I think it's a great system.

Don't like Eco mode though unless in town traffic.

Eco mode? LoL

 

[quotethepigeon]

I like eco if I'm not in the mood to embarrass people at the lights. Sometimes its nice to just pootle along lol

 

[TwinAir Newbie]

Never touch it, ditto in the 500 with the Eco mode.

The steering is light enough as it is and doesn't seem to make much difference with economy.

If economy is your concern then go easy on the right foot.

 

[PandaMambo]

I like eco if I'm not in the mood to embarrass people at the lights. Sometimes its nice to just pootle along lol

I sometimes use Eco for urban driving, or pootling. It's ok. Tbh not sure it makes much difference to economy... But out on the open road it's off... Through the open country...

"the car responded with sonorous drone; the miles were eaten up under him as he sped he knew not whither, fulfilling his instincts, living his hour, reckless of what might come to him."

With thanks and apologies to Kenneth Graeme.
?

 

[Arrowblue]

i use it when driving in the city as soon as i get on bigger roads and more speed i push it off.It is indeed a very good option it works flawless in city.
using Fiat gp 2007 1.3mjt

 

[gar074]

But out on the open road ... Through the open country...

"the car responded with sonorous drone; the miles were eaten up under him as he sped he knew not whither, fulfilling his instincts, living his hour, reckless of what might come to him."

With thanks and apologies to Kenneth Graeme.

Poop, poop!

 

[quotethepigeon]

the eco button does absolutely naff all for the economy.... Just a little but more relaxing sound and feel wise , just don't expect to be able to overtake anything lol. The left lane is your friend in eco mode.

 

[R1NGA]

the eco button does absolutely naff all for the economy.... Just a little but more relaxing sound and feel wise , just don't expect to be able to overtake anything lol. The left lane is your friend in eco mode.

It helps you drive more economically as it reduces power and torque and remaps the throttle. Car feels sluggish, relaxed and slow, but if that's your mood at the time, it just makes it easier to be economic, that's all. But as we've all discussed before, a steady throttle and less use of the very ample (and good fun) torque characteristics of the engine will bring economic benefits by the bucket-load.

 

[Phantom3D]

I drive in ECO mode all the time. Only when there are steep long hills or if I have to overtake do I turn into normal mode.

I look at it as a sport button ;-)

Oh, and I think this saves the turbo some wear, at least from cold start.

The city mode I have never used.