Lancia Ypsilon Review: The Lancia Ypsilon has made a grand comeback, and this time, it’s not just a quirky Italian city car—it’s a style statement. Designed with flair and built on the same platform as the Vauxhall Corsa and Peugeot 208, the all-new Ypsilon represents a bold new chapter for the once-fading Lancia brand. After years of limited presence in the market, Lancia is now repositioning itself as a premium, design-led marque with modern technology and a renewed sense of purpose.
What makes this car stand out isn’t just its sleek design or electric variant—it’s the blend of character, comfort, and innovation. Unlike the often conservative design of its Stellantis siblings, the Ypsilon embraces a sculpted, confident Italian aesthetic. Whether you’re navigating narrow cobbled streets in Rome or commuting through busy European suburbs, this compact hatchback turns heads and sparks curiosity.
But this isn’t just about looks. Lancia has ensured that the new Ypsilon is well-equipped for today’s demanding drivers. From advanced infotainment systems and safety tech to hybrid and electric options, the car delivers on both performance and efficiency. So let’s dive into what makes the new Lancia Ypsilon a compelling rival—and in many ways, a cooler alternative—to the Vauxhall Corsa.
Specifications at a Glance
Here is a table summarizing the main specifications of the new Lancia Ypsilon:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Platform | Stellantis CMP (shared with Corsa, 208) |
| Powertrain Options | Mild-hybrid, Full Electric (Ypsilon HF soon) |
| Electric Range (EV) | Up to 403 km (WLTP) |
| Battery Capacity (EV) | 51 kWh |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual (hybrid), Automatic (EV) |
| Infotainment | 10.25-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay |
| Safety Features | Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, AEB |
| Boot Space | 309 litres |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Price (Estimated) | Starting from €24,000 (Europe) |
Design: Italian Elegance Inside and Out
The Lancia Ypsilon proudly wears its Italian roots on its sleeve. The exterior design features a distinctive front grille with vertical LED light strips, giving it a futuristic yet elegant face. Unlike the sharper lines of the Corsa, the Ypsilon features softer curves and sculpted surfaces that feel more upmarket.
At the rear, the car features circular tail lamps inspired by the legendary Lancia Stratos. Small design elements like hidden rear door handles and brushed chrome accents add to the premium feel. It’s a compact car that doesn’t compromise on style—and easily one of the most aesthetically pleasing hatchbacks in its class.
Inside, the Ypsilon is even more impressive. The cabin design is minimalistic but stylish, with high-quality sustainable materials like Alcantara and recycled textiles. The dual-screen setup—a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment and a digital driver display—brings a tech-forward feel. Lancia has also added its new AI-powered voice assistant, SALA (Sound Air Light Augmentation), which lets you control music, lighting, and air quality through voice commands.
Also read: McLaren P1 EVO: Frank Stephenson’s Stunning Redesign of the Hybrid Hypercar
Features: Tech-Packed and Smart
The new Lancia Ypsilon comes with a wide range of features that make everyday driving easier and more enjoyable. Here are some highlights:
- SALA Voice Assistant: A unique feature that sets the Ypsilon apart. You can control the climate, media, and lighting by simply saying what you need.
- Digital Cockpit: The driver gets a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel for a fully customizable driving view.
- Infotainment System: The center touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and offers connected navigation, live traffic updates, and OTA updates.
- Advanced Safety: Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keep Assist, and Automatic Emergency Braking are all standard or optional.
These features are not only designed to improve comfort but also safety and efficiency.
Performance and Driving Experience
Under the hood, the Lancia Ypsilon shares its engines with the Corsa and 208, including mild-hybrid and electric versions. The electric variant offers up to 154 bhp and a range of 403 km—perfect for city commutes and weekend getaways alike.
The car rides smoothly thanks to its well-tuned suspension and quiet cabin. Steering is light but accurate, ideal for urban environments. While performance enthusiasts might look forward to the upcoming Ypsilon HF hot hatch, the current models prioritize comfort, practicality, and efficiency.
Price and Launch Details
The new Lancia Ypsilon is priced competitively, starting at around €24,000 in most European markets. That places it right in the range of the Vauxhall Corsa and Peugeot 208, though with more Italian flair and tech for the price.
Launch Timeline:
- Official Reveal: February 2024
- Sales Begin (Italy): June 2024
- Wider European Launch: Late 2024
- UK Launch: Expected early 2025
While Lancia is not yet planning an India or U.S. launch, the strong European rollout is a sign that the brand is taking its comeback seriously.
Lancia Ypsilon Review Conclusion
The Lancia Ypsilon isn’t just another compact hatchback—it’s a rebirth of Italian design and personality in a crowded segment. While it shares its bones with the Vauxhall Corsa and Peugeot 208, its heart is all Lancia. It’s smart, stylish, and loaded with the kind of technology and comfort features today’s drivers expect.
If you’re in the market for a compact car that doesn’t blend into the background, the Ypsilon deserves a spot on your shortlist. Whether you opt for the mild-hybrid or the fully electric version, you’ll be driving a piece of Lancia’s promising new future.
Lancia Ypsilon Review FAQs
1. Is the Lancia Ypsilon available in electric?
Yes, the Ypsilon comes in a fully electric version with a 51 kWh battery, offering a range of up to 403 km (WLTP). It’s quiet, efficient, and great for city driving.
2. How is it different from the Vauxhall Corsa?
While it shares its platform with the Corsa, the Ypsilon features unique Italian styling, a premium interior, and an exclusive voice assistant system (SALA) that sets it apart.
3. What safety features are included?
The Ypsilon includes advanced safety features such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and a 360-degree camera (on higher trims).
4. When will it be available in the UK?
The UK launch is expected in early 2025. Right now, the car is available in Italy and will be rolling out to other European countries throughout late 2024.
