Crossword Genius

Proper to impound a car (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

fiat

'car' is the definition.
(car manufacturer)

'proper to impound a' is the wordplay.
'proper' becomes 'fit' (I've seen this in another clue).
'to impound' indicates putting letters inside.
'fit' going around 'a' is 'FIAT'.

(Other definitions for fiat that I've seen before include "Official sanction" , "mandate" , "Decree or official permission" , "Arbitrary order" , "car from Italy" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.