Fiat is making a comeback in the microcar market: introducing the Multiplina. It’s due to arrive in 2028
Previously known as the Quattrolino, the new quadricycle from the Stellantis brand will not be launched for at least two years. Here’s everything we know so far
The model that was referred to as the ‘Quattrolino’ in Stellantis’ business plan unveiled a month ago will be called the ‘Multiplina’. It is a microcar rather than a full-fledged car, reviving the name and echoing the design of the small Fiat 600 Multipla MPV from the 1950s and 1960s. The first image of the car shows a rounded design without a bonnet, like the original 600 Multipla, and with just two doors, though there is room for four passengers on board. No technical specifications for the new model are available yet, except that it will be purely electric and, as a heavy quadricycle (L7e), can be driven by those aged 16 and over.
A manually retractable fabric roof
Another detail is the windows, which are not designed to slide down but have a hinged section that opens outwards, whilst the wing mirrors are manual and round, like those on the Topolino. From the photo, it appears to feature an original canvas roof that is rolled up manually: this could be one of the many optional extras available. It is likely that the car’s price will be as affordable as the Topolino’s, with upgrades available up to 12,000 euros.
Multiplina will be classified as a heavy quadricycle
The new model is not expected to form part of Stellantis’s future E-Car family, as it is a quadricycle rather than a motor vehicle; the latter will, however, be produced at the Poligliano d’Arco plant and, according to the latest reports, is expected to be the new generation of the Fiat Panda. The Multiplina falls into the L7e category, which covers heavy quadricycles, and is therefore distinct from models such as the Citroën Ami and the Fiat Topolino.
The Fiat Multiplina could feature air conditioning
To accommodate four passengers on board, the Multiplina is expected to have more power than the Topolino, as well as technical specifications better suited to four people, and to deliver sufficient performance even on out-of-town journeys and on busier roads. This requirement suggests a more comprehensive range of features than the Topolino. The planned equipment could also include the useful air-conditioning system
It would certainly make sense for the new model to be designed as a genuine alternative to more traditional city cars, albeit with much more compact dimensions and running costs kept as low as possible. The first images show a prototype that is still a long way from the production version, which may feature other solutions designed to ensure the best possible comfort on board the Multiplina.
