Vespa Primavera and Sprint S: Small-body models revised for 2026

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The Vespa is the original meter of all scooters; since 1946, it has transported entire generations through cities and country roads. Its cult status has maintained high sales figures ever since, including in Germany. Last year, the Italian brand registered a total of 12,005 new registrations here. To ensure this continues, Vespa is revising the two smaller model series, Primavera and Sprint S – the so-called Small-Body models – for 2026.

The design must not be touched

It is very important that the appearance of the Vespa is not changed, as Vespa fans would consider it sacrilege. Furthermore, the Vespa enjoys copyright protection that goes beyond the usual, as an Italian court has classified it as an industrial design work of art, meaning it cannot be copied for up to 70 years after the death of its creator, Corradino D’Ascanio. The Primavera and Sprint S, each with 50 and 125 cm³ displacement, as well as the Elettrica with electric drive, will receive some technical revisions and subtle optical refinements.

Experts will immediately recognize the new 12-inch tires. On the Primavera, the five double spokes are now slightly angled, while on the Sprint S they appear a bit more delicate than before. On the latter, there are now five slots on the left side of the fairing below the seat, which are less for better cooling and more for an optical accent. The crest on the Primavera's fender has been refined. Vespa always exercises the greatest care here. Additionally, the so-called “tie,” the central strip at the front of the leg shield, is now narrower. Vespa hopes for a slimmer appearance.

Handlebars: Hook attached

A more practical improvement is the return of the hook under the handlebars. Shopping bags can be hung on it for transport. Women also like to use it for their handbags. The upholstery of the wide seat is made of a new, high-quality-looking material. A real safety plus is the rear disc brake. Finally, the Primavera and Sprint S are no longer using a drum brake at the rear. The dual-piston brake caliper with a 220 mm steel brake disc, along with the front disc brake, promises improved responsiveness. Additionally, the combined ABS is intended to achieve shorter braking distances.

Keyless Start

All versions of the Primavera and Sprint over 50 cm³ now come standard with a keyless system. The remote key allows the engine to be started via a switch that must first be turned to “ON” and then pressed. The key also unlocks the seat, providing access to the large compartment where a helmet fits. In case your scooter has been parked in a crowd of Vespas, the key activates the remote recognition system, causing all turn signals to flash.

A new dashboard makes its debut on the handlebar controls, combining classic lines with an LC display. This allows the smartphone to be connected to the Vespa via the Vespa-MIA multimedia platform to display some functions, including arrow navigation. The Primavera Tech includes Vespa-MIA as standard with a five-inch TFT display. For all others, MIA costs extra.

Several Variants

The Vespa Primavera is available in various trim levels with 50 cm³ and 2.3 kW, as well as a 125cc model with 8.1 kW. The electric version, Elettrica 45, has an output of 2.7 kW and reaches 45 km/h. The Elettrica 70 has a continuous output of 3.6 kW and reaches a speed of 70 km/h. The Sprint S is distinguished at first glance by its angular headlight, while the Primavera has the classic round headlight. Both variants are illuminated by LEDs. The Sprint S is also available with 50 and 125 cm³ engines, as well as the Elettrica 45. In addition to white, red, and blue, the Primavera can now also be ordered in beige, and the Primavera S additionally in cream white. For the Sprint S, white, red, blue, and most recently black and green are planned.

Prices slightly increased

Prices have been slightly increased for the 2026 generation. The Primavera 50 starts at 4250 Euros, the Primavera 125 at 5350 Euros. The Vespa Sprint S 50 starts at 4450 Euros, the Vespa Sprint S 125 at 5550 Euros. Vespa has not yet announced the prices for the electric versions.

(mfz)