I reported a few weeks back that rumors were swirling stating that BMW was developing a new range of fuel-efficient city commuter cars. It was also speculated that the company might use the occasion as an opportunity to update one of their iconic microcar names from days of yore.

Now, according to Auto Express, it appears that the nostalgic Isetta will get the naming rights. The Isetta will be the new eco-friendly standalone brand that replaces Mini as the entry-level vehicle in BMW's stable.

Auto Express quotes an unnamed source saying the new lineup, whatever it ultimately is named, will use small turbocharged gasoline or diesel engines instead of hybrid drivetrains, which BMW is reserving for its larger models like the X6.

One thing's for sure - if BMW does resurrect the Isetta, it will have regular doors. There's no way federal regulators would approve the refrigerator-like front door of the vintage models, even if they do make parking a snap.