New 400 hpe Sport model joins Piaggio's MP3 line-up for 2021

Piaggio have revitalised their three-wheeled MP3 scooter range to meet more stringent Euro5 regulations – offering three A2-compliant options between 278 and 493cc.

The MP3 was the first-ever three-wheeled scoot to hit the market back in 2007 as both a 125 and 250. For 2021, it’s available in the UK as an MP3 300 hpe and hpe Sport, 400 hpe Sport, or 500 hpe Sport Advanced – with the 400 joining the fleet this year as a replacement to the outgoing 350.

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Available for £8300 in four colour options, the MP3 400 hpe Sport is powered by a 399cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine, producing a claimed 34.9bhp at 7000rpm and 27.8lbft at 5500rpm. Compared to the old bike, that’s 16% more power at 1500rpm lower and 30% more torque at 750rpm lower – meaning more useable grunt for any urban riding scenario.

This is thanks to clever internal trickery including a revised intake and valve timing. A longer con rod with optimised weight and lighter piston also help reduce inertia, meaning less vibration. The standard MP3 400 will not be available in the UK. Elsewhere, all machines have been cleaned up for Euro5, with LED daytime running lights featuring as standard on every model.

Away from engine performance, particular attention had been paid towards pillion comfort on the larger 400 and 500 machines, with room available under the spacious seat for two full face helmets. This can be opened either manually or via the Piaggio MIA app, which can also allow you to pair your phone to the bike via Bluetooth to manage calls, play music and more. The software is available as standard on the 400 Sport and £9500 500 Sport Advanced.

Also new for the 500 is a reverse gear – something Piaggio are claiming as a first in the three-wheeled scooter segment. Activated via a control on the dashboard, it should help with navigating out of tight parking spots in and around the city. This is the most powerful bike in the line-up, at a claimed 43.6bhp.

Furthermore there’s three-channel ABS and traction control across the range, and the tilting suspension will lock upright at a standstill, meaning no need to put your foot down at the traffic lights, and it also provides a greater ability to squeeze into the cheekiest of parking spaces. Normal operation resumes at the touch of a button, or when the throttle is applied.