In a world of sleek electric SUVs and futuristic sedans, the Microlino dares to be different. This tiny, retro-inspired EV from Swiss company Micro Mobility is turning heads across Europe and soon, the UK. With its bubble-like shape and front-opening door, it’s a modern tribute to the 1950s BMW Isetta. But while it scores high on charm, the Microlino raises serious questions about value, safety, and practicality.
According to Autocar, the Microlino is officially classified as a quadricycle, not a full car. That means it doesn’t have to meet the same safety standards as regular vehicles. It’s just over 2.5 meters long, seats two people on a bench, and opens from the front like a fridge. It’s designed for short city trips, not long-distance travel.
The Microlino comes with three battery options: 5.5kWh, 10.5kWh, and 15kWh. These offer ranges of 58, 110, and 142 miles respectively. Its 17-horsepower motor delivers a top speed of 56 mph, which is fine for urban driving but not suitable for highways. Charging is simple, it plugs into a regular household socket and takes about four hours to fully charge. That’s convenient, but don’t expect fast-charging capabilities.
Inside, the Microlino is surprisingly refined for a quadricycle. As Microlino Car explains, it features a steel and aluminum safety cell, a digital display, and even a sunroof. The 230-liter trunk is roomy enough for groceries or a weekend bag. But it lacks basic safety features like airbags, ABS, and stability control. Steering is unassisted, and braking can feel unstable under pressure.
The price is where things get tricky. In Europe, the Microlino starts at €17,990 (around £15,400) and goes up to €21,990 (£18,800) for the top model. That’s more than double the cost of rivals like the Citroën Ami, which sells for just £7,695. For the same money, you could buy a full-size car like the MG4 or a well-equipped Kia Picanto.
Driving the Microlino is a mixed experience. It’s fun, nimble, and undeniably charming. But it’s also narrow, bouncy over potholes, and not ideal for long trips. It’s best suited for short urban commutes, station runs, or as a second car. Think of it less as a car and more as a stylish mobility gadget.
The Microlino isn’t trying to be a car for everyone. It’s aimed at city dwellers, eco-conscious drivers, and those who value style over speed. According to Microlino Car, the vehicle is perfect for short trips, quick errands, and navigating tight urban spaces. Its small size makes parking a breeze, and its low energy use means it has a much smaller environmental footprint than traditional cars. It’s also being considered for car-sharing programs and could be ideal for hotels, resorts, or gated communities where short-distance travel is common.
A closer look: Is the Microlino really worth it?
While the Microlino is undeniably charming, it’s not without serious flaws. According to CAR Magazine, the vehicle is technically a quadricycle, which means it doesn’t meet the same safety standards as regular cars. It lacks airbags, ABS, and stability control features that are standard even in the cheapest hatchbacks. Braking can feel unpredictable, and the steering is light and unresponsive, especially at low speeds. In emergency situations, its narrow shape and low weight make it feel unstable.
Performance is also limited. The 17-horsepower motor gives it a top speed of 56 mph, which is fine for city driving but not much more. Acceleration is slow, and it struggles on hills or open roads. Even in sport mode, it doesn’t offer much excitement. As Top Gear notes, an electric scooter could outrun it in a sprint.
Then there’s the price. Starting at around £15,400 and rising to nearly £19,000 for the long-range version, the Microlino costs more than full-size cars like the Kia Picanto or MG4. That’s a tough sell when you consider its limited range, slow charging, and minimal safety features. It’s also more expensive than rivals like the Citroën Ami, which offers similar functionality for half the price.
Inside, the Microlino tries to impress with a digital display, sunroof, and vegan leather options. But some materials feel flimsy, and there’s no built-in infotainment system—you’ll need your phone for navigation and music. The boot is roomy for its size, but the cabin can feel cramped for two adults, especially on longer trips.
In short, the Microlino is best suited for short city commutes or as a stylish second car. It’s more of a fashion statement than a practical vehicle. If you live in a dense urban area and want something unique, it might be a fun choice. But for most drivers, it’s a costly compromise, fun to look at, but hard to justify.
