Piaggio have released more images and details for the brand new 2022 MP3. It’s lighter, more powerful and the top of the range 530 HPE Exclusive model has some features never before seen on a scooter.
First released in 2006, the Piaggio MP3 literally carved a whole new class of machine and bridged the gap between car driver and motorcyclist thanks to the way it’s licensed, which makes it accessible to almost anybody with a full car or bike licence. Piaggio have so far sold over 230,000 MP3s and revolutionised the lives of many commuters.
Advanced Rider Assistance Systems (ARAS)
Probably the biggest headline for the new top-of-the-range MP3 530 HPE Exclusive is that it’s the first scooter to feature Advanced Rider Assistance Systems (ARAS). Developed in Boston, USA by Piaggio’s robotics subsidiary ‘Piaggio Fast Forward’ it includes a suite of rider aid functions based on 4D imaging radar technology. Those aides include…
• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS): Constantly monitors a 30-35 metre wide area behind the scooter and notifies the rider of the presence of vehicles in the rear view mirror’s blind spot by a warning on the TFT dash
• Lane Change Decision Aid System (LCDAS): LCDAS identifies vehicles approaching quickly laterally that may cause a potential risk situation if the driver/rider indicates the intention to swap lanes. Again you’re warned on the digital display
• Reversing camera: The 530 HPE Exclusive features a reverse gear and a car-style rear view camera. This is to help whilst parking up, reversing a heavy scooter up an incline, or whilst putting it away in a narrow garage or parking space
• Cruise control: The MP3 is easily capable of long-distance riding and the new cruise control can make it more comfortable for you on a long journey
7” TFT display
The new MP3 takes rider info to the next level with a brand new 7” colour TFT display, the largest on any three-wheeled scooter. All the usual functions can be seen on the main area of the display in a choice of either analogue or digital. Lighting will auto switch between daytime and nighttime thanks to a twilight sensor, or can be adjusted manually in the settings. Thanks to the size of the display, bolder graphics have been used to make it easily legible.
Trip information is located on the right-hand side, as are call notifications etc. You can also use the display for route navigation and there’s a plethora of information available in real-time about the condition of the vehicle, route taken and histograms showing average speed, fuel consumption and the power/torque curves. All the info is recorded in the dedicated app.
The MP3 also comes with keyless ignition, bike finder and a ‘follow me’ function. The usual ignition key is replaced with a practical knob – simply press it to wake the scooter up and turn it to the ‘on’ position, then press the starter button.
Sportier looks
It’s still unmistakably ‘Piaggio MP3’ but there’s been some significant styling updates, including a new more protective front with horizontal LED light cluster. The radiator has been repositioned to the lower part of the scooter between the front wheels and footboard whilst a sportier air intake opens up at the front of the new screen. Colour coded mudguards enhance the looks. The rear end has undergone some serious work as well with a new lower position for the number plate which leaves the bodywork looking less cluttered.
Aside from all that, the ergonomics have been improved making the seat-footboard-handlebar triangulation work better for the rider. It means the handlebars are closer to the rider and have been raised 10mm, whilst the footboard has been made more comfortable and dropped by 20mm. The seat is also completely new with more space and a better grab handle for the passenger. Two anti-impact pads have been added to the back of the legshield in the same colour as the saddle.
More power for the 530
The 530 HPE engine makes its debut on the new MP3 and brings with it more power – 44.2 bhp at 7250 rpm and 50Nm of torque at 5250 rpm. Both peak power and maximum torque are made at lower rpm, reducing vibration and noise whilst increasing efficiency and comfort and lowering fuel consumption.
The new engine uses a lighter cast alloy piston, new cylinder head with larger valves, an optimised combustion chamber and camshaft with new specific valve lifting. It runs a new Magnetti Marelli 11MP ECU with ride by wire throttle. Engine mapping is selectable with Eco, Comfort and Sport modes. Riding modes also control the calibration of the traction control, making it less intrusive in Sport mode, whilst being more suitable for situations with low grip levels in the other two modes.
The refinements to the engine mean some routine maintenance jobs, like checking valve clearance only needs doing every 20,000 km.
400 HPE engine
Designed for performance and efficiency, the 400 makes 35.3 bhp at 7500 rpm and 37Nm at 5750 rpm. The existing engine has been optimised to increase efficiency, these changes include a new combustion chamber, a high pressure injector to atomise the fuel and the use of a less viscous engine oil (5W-40). The CVT engine cover has also been redesigned to improve cooling to the drive belt.
Models, colours and pricing
The UK will be getting the following two new models:
New MP3 400 HPE Sport: RRP £9,800
Available in Nero Meterora, Bianco Luna, Grigio Titanio and Arancio Sunset Matt. The colours are combined with gritty black wheels and a black seat with red stitching. Other red details include the shock absorbers, and detailing on the wheel rims. Front wavy brake discs and aluminium floorboard inserts are standard fitment.
New MP3 530 Exclusive: RRP £11,500.
Available in Blu Oxygen Matt, Grigio Titanio, Nero Meterora and Grigio Cloud Matt. Can be distinguished by bronze-coloured details on the wheel rims, gearbox cover and seat stitching. Whilst warm chrome is used on the exterior matt grey finishes. Front wavy discs and aluminium footboard inserts are included as standard.
We plan to be riding one soon and will bring you plenty more information and our thoughts afterwards…
Looking for a bargain?
Piaggio have reduced the prices on the current MP3 range, you can save up to £600, depending on model and there’s also a 5.9% PCP or HP deal in place.
MP3 300
The third model in the MP3 lineup is the MP3 300 HPE, priced at £6850 (was £7250). We road-tested it on Scooterlab back in 2019 at its launch and you can read about that here.
