Background car news

In Italy you see a clear top three of popular cars: the Fiat 500, the Fiat Panda, often as a 4×4 in mountain villages, and so the Lancia Ypsilon. Once you pay attention to them, you really do see them everywhere. That says something about their reliability, affordability ánd their charm.

Now a completely new generation of the Ypsilon has appeared. For us, the perfect time to experience during a summer vacation how this new Italian compares in the landscape where it belongs.

Italian and quirky Lancia

What immediately stands out about the new Ypsilon is its distinct design. The front is dominated by a black bar containing a modern interpretation of the classic Lancia emblem, reminiscent in shape of a chalice. This new shape language is part of Lancia’s Pura Design philosophy, which is also visible on the side by the long, curved line that emphasizes the car’s length. The rear lights are a subtle nod to the legendary Lancia Stratos – a detail that enthusiasts immediately recognize.

Within the B-segment, the Ypsilon dares to be truly different. It is design with flair that stands out without being garish. Eleganza Italiana.

Casa di Casper – living room feeling

As soon as you step in, you notice that the interior exudes a surprisingly warm atmosphere. We jokingly called it Casa di Casper, because it is a kind of homely cocoon in which you take your seat. Despite sharing the platform with the Peugeot 208 and Opel Corsa, among others, the Lancia Ypsilon feels much more idiosyncratic inside.

A striking element is the “table” in the middle of the dashboard. It is something you would expect to find in an Italian design apartment rather than in a compact hatchback, but it does come in handy. You can put your things on it and the trench makes the table a true phone holder, even while driving. Incidentally, this Lancia Ypsilon also features wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, which turns the infotainment screen into an extension of your phone.

The gold accents, rounded lines and, last but not least, velvet seat upholstery add character and comfort. You catch yourself occasionally unconsciously stroking your hand over the velvet.

Practically speaking, the Ypsilon is compact. The luggage space of 309 liters is enough for two suitcases, but after that it stops. The back seat is cramped; going out with four adults in this car is not recommended. Especially if you are tall, it is wiser to travel in pairs. In the front, however, the seating is excellent. The seats offer plenty of support and remain comfortable, even on longer journeys. As a tall driver, you never feel trapped. That is an achievement in itself in a car of this size.

Taking the Lancia Ypsilon into the mountains

In Italy, driving is all about curves, elevations, narrow village streets and descents. It is precisely in these conditions that the Lancia Ypsilon feels at home. The car is equipped with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder mild hybrid engine, good for 110 hp and 205 Nm of torque and an automatic transmission. That shifts relaxed, especially in heavy city traffic or hairpin turns in the mountains. If you still want more control, you can intervene yourself with the shift paddles.

The powertrain is not spectacularly powerful, but it is efficient. Thanks to regenerative braking, it recovers energy during downhill driving, which is both comfortable and economical. If you know how to use it properly, you hardly need to apply the brakes. You do notice that this braking effect diminishes once the battery is full. No more than logical, but something to keep in mind during longer descents.

The engine sometimes makes itself audible when climbing or accelerating, but it remains within limits. The Ypsilon feels agile and lively thanks to its low build, especially compared to other B-segmenters that pretend to be a compact SUV. The steering is direct and therefore invites you to actually enjoy driving. Only the suspension is a bit on the firm side, which is noticeable on bumpy Italian roads.

Yet the car is not only in its element in the mountains. On the highway, too, the Ypsilon shows surprising maturity. Thanks to systems like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, you can drive longer distances in a relaxed manner. Fast and efficient to the next Italian city? No problem.

Benvenuti in Italia

The environment in which we drove contributed at least as much to the driving experience as the car itself. One of the highlights was our visit to the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza. Unfortunately we didn’t drive on the circuit, but just posing in front of the gate provided enough inspiration for a daydream about legendary Lancias at top speed.

Another highlight was Lake Iseo. It turned out to be a charming alternative to the more famous Lake Como. Along its shores we drove through Sarnico, home of boat builder Riva. Access to the boatyard was unfortunately not possible, but we briefly parked the Ypsilon in a small harbor nearby. There, too, the Lancia Ypsilon feels completely at home.

Those who then drive from Sarnico to Lovere along the water are treated to breathtaking views. Our tip? Make sure you always have your swimming trunks in the back, because in some places you can park your car along the road and take a refreshing dip in the lake. Once you swim out, Lovere is also well worth a visit. This medieval town is known as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, and it is. It exudes tranquility and authenticity.

Conclusion – La dolce vita with a dolce guida

The new Lancia Ypsilon is not your average hatchback. It is a car with its own character. Its appearance and interior exude Italian whimsy. So much so, that even Italians sometimes take a peek at this latest Italian scion.

And while not a space wonder, it offers surprising comfort, efficiency and dynamism. Minor drawbacks such as the firm suspension do little to detract from the overall picture. The Ypsilon is charming, modern and different. And that is precisely what makes it so attractive. Viva Lancia!

Lancia Ypsilon specifications

We drove the Lancia Ypsilon in the LX version. It is available from 33,800 euros, where the regular Ypsilon is available from 30,800 euros. Should you desire a touch of sportiness, the HF-Line is the choice for you. An extra sporty front bumper and special upholstery inside make that version extra special. The top version is the sporty Lancia Ypsilon HF, an all-electric hot hatch. Additional options on the LX are:

Exterior: 17” rims Diamond Cut – Wheel arches in ‘Glossyblack- Dark tinted rear privacy glass

Interior & infotainment: Ambient lighting – Premium seat upholstery made of high-quality recycled velvet – Sill moldings with engraved Lancia logo – Wireless phone charger

Safety and comfort: 2 rear USB-C sockets – Power folding door mirrors – Front and rear parking camera – Front and rear parking sensors – Adaptive Cruise Control – Stop & Go – Blind Spot Detection