car news

Fiat Topolino (2025) Review – Small EV, big on charm

December 4, 2024

First, who is the Fiat Topolino for?

The Fiat Topolino is aimed at people looking for an alternative to a car, moped or scooter, fatbike or bicycle, for both in town and around the village. Parking is a breeze thanks to its small size and you enjoy more comfort and protection than on two wheels. In addition, thanks to its cute appearance, it has an irresistible charm that appeals to both a young and older generation. During our first road test in Turin, we received more thumbs up (and even requests for a selfie with the Topolino!) than ever before.

Italian charmer

The Fiat Topolino is a cheerful sight. It is available in just one color – the stylish Verde Vita, a soft mint green shade. The little EV exudes Italian flair on top. Look at those cute little round headlights and narrow taillights – they melt you, don’t they? The black exterior mirrors and hubcaps on 14-inch steel wheels complete the retro picture.

Practical interior

Inside, the Topolino is simply but cleverly laid out. A small, simple display behind the steering wheel shows speed and remaining range. That’s all you need in a vehicle like this. The interior also has storage nets, a smartphone holder, floor mats, a USB connection and a manually adjustable driver’s seat. Not an unnecessary luxury, then, but everything you need for short drives.

The interior feels surprisingly spacious, despite the car’s small size. Even taller drivers have all the room they need. That’s because the seats are mounted all the way in the back, above the rear axle and flush against the rear window. Near the passenger’s footwell, a space has been created that exactly fits a rolling suitcase.

How does the Fiat Topolino drive?

With a top speed of 45 km/h and a range of 75 kilometers, the Topolino is suitable for short trips around town or around the village. There are no superfluous driving modes, just three big buttons: D for Drive, N for Neutral and R for Reverse. Simple enough. The battery has a capacity of 7 kWh (of which 5.5 kWh is net usable) and you fully charge it in four hours via a normal power outlet. The charging cable? That’s cleverly hidden in the car’s side panel, like a cord you pull out of a vacuum cleaner. Useful!

Swift sat

Acceleration from 0 to 45 km/h takes 10 seconds; so you don’t go forward like a rocket, but that’s not necessary in a moped. 44 Nm of torque is sufficient for a smooth acceleration and thanks to the ultra-small turning circle you can effortlessly turn through the narrowest streets. The electric motor does make itself heard and sounds a bit like a car in reverse – that sound of straight gearing. It is not very disturbing, but it does make you realize that you are not driving a full-blown car, but a moped.

How safe is a Fiat Topolino?

The brakes – front discs and rear drums – give enough confidence even if you have to go full anchors unexpectedly. In the chaotic traffic of Turin, we tested this extensively, believe us. The Topolino does not have an airbag, which is not mandatory in this category of vehicle. But you can easily say that the Topolino is a lot safer than a scooter, moped, fatbike or bicycle. Four wheels and a roof over your head make a world of difference when it comes down to it.

Conclusion

The Topolino is the Italian brother of the Opel Rocks-e and shares a lot of parts with it. At 9,890 euros, the Topolino is about 1,000 euros more expensive than the German, but the solid dose of Fiat charm and Italian design more than makes up for that price difference. Moreover, it is a lot friendlier to your wallet than a Biro (starting at 14,995 euros). And remember, a little scooter – like a Vespa – will soon cost you 5 to 6 grand these days. Of course, the Topolino is not an EV with which to travel long distances, but if you are looking for stylish transportation for short trips or you just like it when people spontaneously grab their phones to take pictures of you, then this Fiat is definitely for you.