Lancia, the Italian premium brand that has been struggling for years, is finally making a comeback with the new Ypsilon, a compact hatchback that aims to combine style, technology, and sustainability. The new Lancia Ypsilon, which was unveiled in Milan on February 14, 2024, is the first of three new models that Lancia plans to launch in the next few years as part of a multi-year relaunch plan under the Stellantis group. The new Ypsilon is also Lancia’s first-ever electric car, although it will also offer mild-hybrid versions with gasoline engines. In this article, we will take a closer look at the new Ypsilon, its features, its competitors, and its prospects for the future.
The design of the new Ypsilon
The new Lancia Ypsilon is a radical departure from the previous generation, which was launched in 2011 and had a more rounded and feminine shape. The new Ypsilon is larger, more angular, and more aggressive, with a length of 4.08 meters, a width of 1.76 meters, and a height of 1.44 meters. The wheelbase is 2.54 meters, and the luggage capacity is between 310 and 340 liters, depending on the version.
The front of the new Ypsilon features a distinctive LED light signature that resembles a goblet, a symbol of elegance and refinement. The Lancia logo is laser-cut on the hood, while the grille is almost invisible. The headlights and taillights are inspired by the iconic Lancia Stratos, with circular shapes and a Y motif. The side mirrors, the wheel arches, and the rear pillar have a glossy black finish, contrasting with the body color. The new Ypsilon also has a panoramic roof that lets in natural light.
The 2024 Lancia Ypsilon was presented in a limited launch series of 1,906 units, which was the year Lancia was founded. This special edition was created in collaboration with Cassina, a high-end Italian furniture maker, and features exclusive details such as the Lancia blue color, the Cassina logo on the front fenders, and the Cassina fabric upholstery on the seats and the dashboard. The price of this edition is €39,500, or about $44,500.
The technology of the new Ypsilon
The new Ypsilon is not only a stylish car but also a smart and connected one. The interior features two digital screens, each measuring 10.25 inches that display the instrument cluster and the infotainment system. The infotainment system is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and has a wireless charging pad and three USB-C ports. The new Ypsilon also has a bespoke sound system, ambient lighting, and a special filter for the air conditioning that eliminates 99% of harmful particles.
The new Ypsilon also has several advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and emergency braking. The new Ypsilon also has a 360-degree camera system that helps with parking and maneuvering.
The 2024 Lancia Ypsilon is available in two powertrain options: a battery-electric (BEV) version and a mild-hybrid (MHEV) version. The BEV version has a front-mounted electric motor that delivers 154 horsepower and 260 Newton-meters of torque, the same as the Peugeot e-208 and the Opel e-Corsa, which share the same platform. The battery pack has a capacity of 51 kWh and offers a range of up to 403 kilometers, according to the WLTP cycle. The battery can be recharged up to 80% in 30 minutes using a fast charger.
The MHEV version has a 1.2-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine that is paired with a 12-volt electric system that provides a slight boost and improves fuel efficiency. The MHEV version has a power output of 110 horsepower and a torque of 205 Newton-meters. The fuel consumption is rated at 4.5 liters per 100 kilometers, and the CO2 emissions are 103 grams per kilometer.
The competitors of the new Ypsilon
The 2024 Lancia Ypsilon is positioned as a premium compact hatchback and faces competition from other models in the same segment, such as the Audi A1, the Mini Cooper, the DS 3, and the Fiat 500. Here is a comparison table that shows how the new Ypsilon stacks up against some of its rivals:
| Model | Powertrain | Power | Torque | Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lancia Ypsilon BEV | Electric | 154 hp | 260 Nm | 403 km | €39,500 |
| Audi A1 40 TFSI | Gasoline | 200 hp | 320 Nm | N/A | €32,900 |
| Mini Cooper SE | Electric | 184 hp | 270 Nm | 234 km | €33,900 |
| DS 3 Crossback E-Tense | Electric | 136 hp | 260 Nm | 320 km | €39,100 |
| Fiat 500 Icon | Electric | 118 hp | 220 Nm | 320 km | €34,900 |
As you can see, the new Ypsilon BEV has a higher price than most of its competitors but also offers a longer range and a more distinctive design. The new Lancia Ypsilon MHEV, on the other hand, has a lower price than the BEV version but also a lower power and a higher fuel consumption.
The prospects of the new Ypsilon
The new Ypsilon is a crucial model for Lancia, as it marks the beginning of a new era for the brand, which has been neglected for years by its former owner, Fiat Chrysler. Under the Stellantis group, which was formed by the merger of Fiat Chrysler and PSA, Lancia has been given a new chance to revive its heritage and reputation as a maker of elegant and innovative cars. The new Ypsilon is the first step in this direction and will be followed by two more models in the next few years, expanding the brand’s portfolio and presence in Europe.
The new Ypsilon will go on sale in Italy before the summer of 2024 and will be exported to other European markets later in the year. The 2024 Lancia Ypsilon will also be sold in China, where Lancia sees a growth potential, especially in the premium segment. The new Ypsilon will face the challenge of competing with established and popular brands, such as Audi, Mini, and DS, but will also be able to attract new and loyal customers who appreciate its unique style, technology, and sustainability. The new Ypsilon is a bold and ambitious car, and it will be interesting to see how it will perform in the market and shape the future of Lancia.
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