Porridge - a VLA and a microlight are two different things. Often a particular design (e.g. the AT3 or Eurostar) can be built as either, depending on the options taken.
The flying school at Sywell (Brooklands) operate two VLAs for training - feedback I've heard suggest they are not as tough or easy to fly (and taxy!) as the 'classic' C150/ PA28s etc. As for 'sprightly performance' - they may exhibit awesome climb angles and use less fuel but the cruise speed of those I know is similar to the old tin cans. The relatively lower wing loading of the VLAs can also make them a little more uncomfortable on a thermic day...