Piaggio keeps three-wheeler models fresh with new engines and colors

MP3 gets new engines and updates

It was 2006 when Piaggio first introduced what they claim was the world’s first production 3-wheeled tilt scooter. Since then, many competitors have arrived from Peugeot, Kymco, and Yamaha. Brands like KTM and Kawasaki are reportedly looking into developing their own.

15 years later, feeling the pinch of competition, the MP3 (which means Moto Piaggio a 3 ruote, Italian for "Piaggio motorcycle with 3 wheels”) gets a much-needed update.

For 2021 onwards, the Piaggio MP3 will be available in 4 variants: MP3 300 HPE, MP3 400 HPE, MP3 400 HPE Sport, and the MP3 500 HPE Sport Advanced. New for this year is the MP3 400 HPE, which is equipped with a high-performance 399 cc engine, up from 330 cc. Power output is rated at 36 Ps at 7,000 rpm, while torque output is at 37.7 Nm at 5,500 rpm.

The single-cylinder is mated to an automatic multi-plate wet clutch, which guarantees better and more consistent performance over time, even in conditions of high thermal stress. It eliminates the pesky jerkiness you get with common transmissions when starting from a standstill and ensuring an improved riding experience.

The larger MP3 500 now comes equipped with a reverse gear, another world’s first in 3-wheeler scooters. The MP3 500 also gets an updated ride-by-wire system, ABS, full-LED lighting, and traction control.

Like the MP3 400 HPE, the new 45 Ps MP3 500 HPE Sport Advance is also a Euro-5 emissions compliant scooter.

Versions and colors

The Piaggio MP3 400 HPE comes in two color variants, Nero Lucido and Grigio Materia, both elegant color schemes combined with the new black saddle and the grey painted wheel rims. The Piaggio MP3 400 HPE Sport is available in four color variants: Nero Meteora; Bianco Luna, Argento Cometa and Blu Zaffiro, all colors combined with aggressive black wheel rims and saddles.

The Piaggio MP3 500 HPE Sport Advanced is available in four color variants, all matte: Nero Meteora and Blu Zaffiro, Argento Cometa and Marrone Terra, all four combined with black wheel rims and saddles.