Lancia is back. After years of neglect and decline, the legendary Italian brand has finally unveiled a new model that signals a fresh start and a bold vision for the future. The new Lancia Ypsilon is not just a facelift of the old city car but a completely different vehicle that aims to redefine the premium compact segment with its distinctive design, advanced technology, and electric powertrain.
We will look closer at the new Ypsilon, its features, performance, and price. We will also analyze how it compares to its rivals and what it means for the Lancia brand and its fans.
The Design: A Modern and Elegant Hatchback with a Touch of Stratos
The new Lancia Ypsilon is a radical departure from the previous generation, which was launched in 2011 and had a rather conservative and curvy shape. The new model is larger, longer, and broader, with a hatchback body that gives it more practicality and versatility. The new dimensions are:
- Length: 4.08 m (160.6 in)
- Width: 1.76 m (69.2 in)
- Height: 1.44 m (56.7 in)
- Wheelbase: 2.54 m (100 in)
- Luggage capacity: 310-340 liters (10.9-12 cu ft)
The 2024 Lancia Ypsilon also has an entirely new style that combines modern and elegant elements with some references to the Lancia heritage. The front end features a distinctive LED light signature, forming a goblet shape inspired by the Lancia logo. The grille is replaced by a smooth surface integrating the LANCIA lettering and a small shield badge. The hood has a sculpted shape that adds dynamism and character.
A sloping roofline, a glossy black pillar, and a chrome strip along the windows characterize the side profile. The door handles are hidden in the C-pillar, creating a clean and sleek look. The wheels are available in sizes and designs ranging from 16 to 18 inches.
The rear end is the most striking part of the new Ypsilon, as it features two circular LED taillights that recall the iconic Stratos rally car. The tailgate has a two-tone color scheme, with a glossy black upper part contrasting with the body color. The LANCIA lettering and the shield badge are also on the back, along with a subtle spoiler and a diffuser.
The new Lancia Ypsilon is available in different colors and trim levels. Still, the most exclusive and luxurious one is the CASSINA edition, a limited series of 1,906 units (the year of Lancia's foundation) with a unique blue color, a leather interior, and a collaboration with the renowned Italian furniture maker Cassina.
The Interior and Technology: A Sophisticated and Digital Cockpit with High-Quality Materials
The new Ypsilon's interior reflects its exterior design, combining geometric shapes, fabric upholstery, and ambient lighting to create a sophisticated and cozy atmosphere. The dashboard has a layered structure, with a large 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that dominates the center. The infotainment system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a wireless charging pad, and three USB-C ports. The climate controls are located below the screen, with physical buttons and knobs for easy access.
The steering wheel is leather-wrapped and multifunctional, with paddle shifters and a flat bottom. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with different options for the upholstery, including fabric, leather, and Alcantara. The CASSINA edition has a unique brown leather interior with contrast stitching and the Cassina logo on the headrests. The rear seats accommodate three passengers, with a 60/40 split-folding function to increase the cargo space.
The 2024 Lancia Ypsilon also offers advanced safety and driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic sign recognition, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera. The car also has a unique air conditioning filter that eliminates 99% of harmful particles, ensuring a healthy and pleasant environment inside the cabin.
The Performance: A Smooth and Efficient Electric Powertrain with a Decent Range
The new Ypsilon is the first Lancia model to offer a fully electric powertrain based on the same platform and components as the Peugeot e-208 and the Opel e-Corsa. The electric motor is mounted on the front axle and delivers 154 horsepower and 260 Nm (191 lb-ft) of torque, which are enough to propel the car from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.5 seconds and to a top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph).
The battery pack has a capacity of 51 kWh and provides a range of up to 403 km (250 miles) in the WLTP cycle. The battery can be recharged using different methods, such as a standard wall socket, a home charger, or a public fast charger. The charging times vary depending on the power source, but the quickest option is to use a 100 kW DC quick charger, which can replenish 80% of the battery in 30 minutes.
The new Ypsilon also has a regenerative braking system that recovers energy during deceleration and braking and different driving modes that adjust the power output and energy consumption. The driving modes are:
- Eco: This mode reduces the power output to 82 horsepower and limits the top speed to 90 km/h (56 mph) to maximize the range and efficiency.
- Regular: This mode provides the standard power output of 154 horsepower and a balanced performance and consumption.
- Sport: This mode increases the torque to 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) and enhances the responsiveness and agility of the car.
The new Lancia Ypsilon also has a suspension system that ensures a smooth and comfortable ride and a steering system that offers precise and direct feedback. The car also has a low center of gravity and a good weight distribution, improving stability and handling.
