The Microlino: A Tiny Retro Ride That’s Big on Charm

Oh, hello, what's this?

In a sea of samey car designs, the Microlino pops out like a neon sign in the rain.

This little electric ride takes a massive nod from the 1950s bubble car era—yep, the iconic BMW Isetta—but jazzes it up for today’s city streets.

The Isetta, for those not in the know, was a microcar that became an instant hit in post-war Europe. With its tiny footprint, single front-hinged door, and three or four wheels (depending on the version), it was the quirky solution to affordable transport when petrol prices were sky-high.

Dubbed the "bubble car" for its domed design and compact size, the Isetta was a bold mix of style and ingenuity.

BMW took the Italian design, refined it with a reliable motorcycle engine, and made it their own. It wasn’t just a car—it was a cultural icon, symbolising freedom, efficiency, and a bit of cheeky flair during a time when practicality trumped excess.

The Microlino channels this same spirit but gives it a 21st-century makeover. It keeps the signature front-hinged door and rounded design but swaps the petrol engine for an eco-friendly electric motor.

Think of it as the Isetta’s cooler, more modern cousin—still fun, still a bit mad, but perfectly suited for today’s urban jungle.

Old-School Cool Meets New-School Practicality

First off, let’s talk about that look.

The Microlino’s front-opening door is straight out of the retro playbook, but it’s not just for show. Parking in tight spaces? No worries—you hop out straight onto the pavement.

Add those bold, round headlights sticking out like googly eyes, and you’ve got a design that’s playful and functional.

Size-wise, it’s teeny—just 2.5 metres long. That’s smaller than your average hatchback, making it a dream for squeezing into those city centre spaces everyone fights over.

Inside, it’s all about minimalism: a simple bench seat for two and a surprisingly roomy 230-litre trunk. Groceries, gym gear, or even a cheeky weekend bag? Sorted.

The Microlino isn’t trying to be a luxury whip, though.

No power steering or AC means it’s a bit “back to basics,” but let’s be real—this thing’s built for short city hops, not long-haul road trips. It can hit about 56 mph, which is more than enough to zip around town or take the odd country lane detour.

Safety-wise, it’s packing a proper unibody chassis, so it’s sturdier than it looks. Plus, being electric means you’re keeping it green while looking cool.

Let’s face it: driving this thing is a vibe.

You’re not just commuting; you’re making a statement. Heads turn, people smile—it’s a guaranteed icebreaker wherever you go. If you’re in the UK, you can snag one from specialist dealers now, and it’s bound to stand out in a car park full of grey SUVs.

If you’re after a car that’s quirky, eco-friendly, and practical for the city grind, the Microlino is a gem.

Sure, it skips the luxuries, but it makes up for it with bags of personality. It’s proof you don’t need to blend in when you can stand out—and have a laugh while you’re at it.