Is there a modern equivalent of the BMW Isetta that's cheap to run?

As a fit and healthy 92 year old I am really worried that I may not be able to afford my next car insurance premium, on my 15 plate Toyota Yaris Icon, due on the 8th January 2026.

Please could you advise me of any car that would cost much less to insure? I once enjoyed owning a very econiomical BMW Isetta 3-wheel bubble car but there doesn't seem to be anything similar around these days? Unless you know of something similar with a reasonable top speed, suitable for commuting up to about 15 miles?

Asked on 30 April 2025 by Ian Galletti

Answered by Matt Robinson

There is actually a modern equivalent of the Isetta bubble car in the form of the Microlino, but we haven't tried one yet and would be hesitant to recommend it as it's classed as a quadricycle rather than a car, so doesn't have to comply with the same safety standards.

Instead, simply downsizing should hopefully be enough to lower your premiums. Preferably, look for something in insurance group 1 - we'd recommend a Toyota Aygo or Aygo X alongside the the SEAT Mii, Skoda Citigo or VW Up, which are the same cars in all but branding. The lowest-powered versions of each are in group 1, but to be sure, it's best to get insurance quotes for any car you're looking at to check the premiums.

Also, our advice with car insurance is to always shop around before accepting your renewal price.

Tags: running costs buying advice

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