Italy’s Car Tax Overhaul: What Drivers Need to Know
Italy is gearing up for significant changes to its car tax system, with the main reforms slated to take effect on January 1, 2028, and some adjustments arriving as early as 2027. For now, the amount drivers pay remains unchanged, but understanding the upcoming shifts is crucial for planning. The good news is that the fundamental calculation criteria—vehicle power, environmental class, and applicable rates—will remain the same, and the much-debated super tax on high-performance vehicles will persist.
The car tax calculation is straightforward, relying on two key parameters: vehicle power in kilowatts (kW) and Euro emission class (from Euro 0 to Euro 6). The formula is: Tax = (100 × Base Rate) + (Excess kW × Surcharge Rate). For example, a car with 150 kW in Euro 6 class would pay (100 × €3) + (50 × €4.50) = €300 + €225 = €525. National rates vary by Euro class, with older, more polluting vehicles facing higher per-kW charges.
One notable aspect is the superbollo, an additional tax for cars exceeding 185 kW. For instance, a powerful sports car like a Lamborghini Huracán (315 kW) would incur a base tax of €1,290 plus a superbollo of €6,300 (315 kW × €20), totaling €7,590 annually. This makes owning high-performance Italian and German sports cars significantly more expensive in Italy than in neighboring countries, a factor that enthusiasts and buyers must consider.
However, the most critical point to understand is that car tax in Italy is a regional tax. This means there is no single nationwide rule; benefits, exemptions, and rates can vary considerably depending on your region of residence. For example, some regions offer exemptions for Euro 3 vehicles (permanently exempt for one vehicle), while others may have different incentives. As the 2028 reforms approach, drivers should stay informed about both national changes and regional variations to manage their automotive costs effectively.
Shimanta Das 
