“Installed in a Fiat Panda (eco). Usage spans typical urban commuting and occasional longer drives, with standard vehicle electronics.
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Overview
The Lion 063 car battery is marketed as an affordable, no-nonsense replacement battery for small to mid-sized vehicles. Positioned within the budget-conscious segment of the market, it often competes with more recognizable brands like Bosch, Yuasa, and Varta. Despite its modest price point, the Lion 063 delivers a commendable blend of reliability, performance, and ease of installation—at least within the context of light urban driving.
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Specifications (as advertised)
• Type: 063
• Voltage: 12V
• Ampere Hours (Ah): ~44Ah (varies slightly depending on supplier)
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): ~420A
• Dimensions: Approximately 207mm (L) x 175mm (H) x 175mm (W)
• Terminal Layout: Standard UK layout – positive terminal on the right
• Warranty: Commonly 3 years (check retailer specifics)
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Installation and Fitment
Fitment into the engine bay of the Fiat Panda was unproblematic. The 063 form factor fits snugly within the OEM tray and required no bracket modification or terminal adjustment. Terminal clamps seated securely, and the battery came adequately charged to start the engine immediately post-installation.
Pros:
• Drop-in compatible
• Clearly marked terminals
• Comfortable handle for placement/removal
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Performance in Real-World Use
Starting Reliability:
From day one, the Lion 063 has consistently delivered strong cold starts, even on chillier mornings (tested down to approx. 2°C ambient). There has been no hesitation in crank speed or voltage drop indicative of strain.
Charging Retention:
After two weeks of vehicle inactivity (during a travel period), the battery retained sufficient charge to start the car on the first attempt. Voltage readings prior to start remained above 12.4V, indicating solid self-discharge characteristics and a well-regulated internal chemistry.
Electrical Load Handling:
With lights, fan, radio, and heated rear screen running simultaneously, the battery voltage under load remained stable. While not engineered for high-drain audio systems or aftermarket modifications, it meets and slightly exceeds expectations for a standard city car setup.
Recovery Time:
Post-start voltage recovery via the alternator appears swift. This implies a good compatibility with the car’s charging system and efficient internal resistance characteristics.
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Build Quality
The casing is durable, venting appears secure, and there are no signs of poor sealing or corner cuttings that sometimes plague budget batteries. It lacks the “premium” look or feel of high-end batteries, but this is mostly cosmetic.
Notable Observations:
• Minimal vibration noise
• No signs of terminal corrosion after initial months
• No expansion or bloating in case design under temperature cycles
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Long-Term Considerations
While still relatively early in its lifecycle, the battery has shown no signs of degradation. As with all lead-acid units, life expectancy will depend on usage patterns, but initial signs suggest a lifespan close to the advertised 3–4 years—particularly with regular vehicle use and no parasitic drain.
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Verdict
The Lion 063 battery performs exactly as expected—and in today’s market, that is a compliment. It is a reliable, cost-effective choice for Fiat Panda owners who need dependable starts and stable electrical performance without paying a premium for brand cachet.
Final Rating:
8.5/10
Pros:
• Excellent value for money
• Strong and consistent cold starts
• Perfect fit for the Fiat Panda
• Good voltage retention under load
• Respectable warranty
Cons:
• Brand reputation not as strong as premium counterparts
• Aesthetic and branding are utilitarian
• Not suited for high-performance or extreme cold environments”
