New Fiat Topolino destined for UK market in 2024 

Tiny Topolino sprinkles some Italian flair atop Citroen’s Ami platform. Door ropes and beach towels optional.

Are you the sort of person who looks at a modern-day Fiat 500 and thinks: that’s far too big and powerful? Well, good news! Fiat’s latest retro throwback rekindles a time when motoring was distilled to its very essence.  

First things first, yes, it is a Citroen Ami in a pretty Italian frock. But that’s no bad thing, as the Topolino wants to be a spiritual successor to the original 500 in both size and philosophy.  

Touted by Fiat as ‘an ideal solution for urban and short-range mobility’ this minute electric quadricycle shares a battery and motor with its French sibling.  As such, performance will be a similarly relaxing 28mph flat out, courtesy of eight rampant horsepower. While the 47-mile range also roughly matches the Citroen.

The Topolino’s USP, though, will be its array of charming Italian styling touches. From the chrome effect bumpers and luggage rack, to the door ropes and circular headlights, it’s as cute as a button.  

Available in just one shade named Verde Vita (as pictured), buyers can choose between an open or closed version. The former, offering different sills, rope instead of doors, striped stickers, and a retractable material roof. Closed models gain a hard top and doors which provide some protection against the elements.  

If you really want your Topo’ to stand out, Fiat will offer five further options: a fashionable rack bag, a USB fan, a Bluetooth speaker, a thermal water bottle for hot and cold drinks, and two seat covers that convert into plush beach towels. How quaint.  

As with the single paint option, Fiat isn't keen on customers ruining their retro styling with gaudy wheels. Just one period-looking 14-inch set is available, pictured here wearing Barum tyres – a subsidiary of Continental.

If you’re willing to part with an estimated £8,000, you can have your very own taste of Dolce Vita in the UK next from next year.

It’s probably wise to choose the closed model though, or at the very least, invest in some decent waterproofs. 

Do you think the Topolino has what it takes to capture the hearts and minds of its Gen Z target audience? Or is the new styling a bit corny and twee compared to its unique sibling?