Here it is, ladies and gentlemen, the new Fiat Topolino. A name that evokes memories of simpler times, when cars were just a means of getting from point A to point B, and not a symbol of status or a technological gadget. But don't let the nostalgic name fool you, because this microcar (call it a quadricycle, call it what you like) is anything but simple.
An electric motor? But go.
It's been a while since Fiat decided to skip ahead to the 20th century and catapult itself directly into the future: the Topolino is no exception. A trendy choice, there is no doubt, especially for this type of car (developed on an almost identical format by Citroën, Opel and others).
This does not automatically guarantee the success of the project, which could actually turn out to be a boomerang. In fact, despite the progress made in recent years, the infrastructure for charging electric cars is still lacking in many areas, and not everyone has a garage for home charging. This can currently limit the practicality of a vehicle of this type quite a bit.
An ino ino Mickey Mouse
Range and speed issue. Shall we talk about it? From the official website I draw the conclusion that with a range of 75 km and a top speed of 45 km/h, the Fiat Topolino seems more suited to a ride in the park than a trip on the freeway. I don't know about you, but to me it seems a bit like buying a horse and then only using it to get from the bathroom to the bedroom.
Finally, the price: a punch in the stomach. With a starting cost of 9.890 euros, the Fiat Topolino is certainly not a gift. For that price, you could buy a full-sized used car, with a performance engine and without all the limitations. But hey, at least you'll have the nicest car on the block, right? And here we come to my personal weaknesses, which do not necessarily reflect those of the site.
Fiat Topolino, the verdict: yes, but…
In the end, I can't help but love the new Fiat Topolino. Yes, it has its flaws. Yes, it's not a very smart or economical choice. But there's something about its retro aesthetic, its playful spirit, that makes me smile. It reminds me of my grandfather's Fiat 850, city tours, pistachio ice creams.
And I have no prejudices against compact electric quadricycles, I don't crave to rev up showing muscle and octane (I even like the Microlino which reminds me of the Isetta!).
I'll understand if for you the Topolino is just a cockroach, though. After all, not everyone is willing to pay such a high price for a blast from the past. And maybe it's true, there are no more dreams than once.
