Famous Italian scooter brand Vespa has announced a new model that harks back to a model first seen in 1968.

The Primavera, which means spring in Italian, is instantly recognisable as a Vespa, but uses new style cues inspired by the incredibly expensive Vespa 946 luxury scooter.

The iconic Vespa ‘wasp tail’ is present and correct, but the new Primavera’s lines are elsewhere softer and more rounded. The diminutive headlight is still mounted high, between the handlebars, but it brings the Vespa looks up to date.

There are two engines; a 125cc and a 155cc option (called the 150). Both use a single-cylinder engine with a fully-automatic clutch and gearbox for twist-and-go responses.

Electronic fuel injection helps to improve fuel economy versus older Vespas, and with an eight-litre fuel tank on board a range of 150 miles per fill-up should be possible.

True to its traditional construction the Vespa Primavera is made of sheet steel over a steel chassis. It’s not as light as some more modern designs but it’s stable – and it looks great.

There are some new-age touches in the shape of LED lighting, though, where the indicators, daytime running lights and tail lights have all ditched traditional bulbs for brighter LEDs.

The Primavera isn’t cheap, at £3,371, but owning a new scooter from the iconic Vespa brand never comes without its premium. Touches like the finely-trimmed Italian leather seat help to make a positive case.

Vespa dealers are expecting stock throughout April and May. To find a dealer visit www.uk.vespa.com