Lancia ypsilon 1.2 hybrid review: stylish & practical, but pricey?

Lancia ypsilon 1.2 hybrid review: a fresh take on a classic?

The new Lancia Ypsilon is aiming to revitalize the brand and recapture its place in the competitive B segment. This updated model boasts a redesigned exterior, featuring a distinctive front fascia and circular rear lights – a nod to the iconic Lancia Stratos. The focus is on a blend of style, comfort, and modern technology, but does it deliver on all fronts?

Performance and powertrain: a balanced hybrid system

Under the hood, the tested Lancia Ypsilon 1.2 Hybrid features a 1.199 cc three-cylinder turbo petrol engine paired with a 48V mild hybrid system. This combination produces a total of 110 horsepower (81 kW) and 205 Nm of torque. It’s equipped with a 6-speed dual-clutch e-DCT automatic transmission, resulting in a 0-100 km/h acceleration of 9.3 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h. The front-wheel-drive layout contributes to agile handling, particularly in urban environments.

Fuel economy and range: real-world vs. the numbers

The manufacturer claims a combined fuel consumption of 4.5 l/100 km (approximately 22 km/l). However, our testing revealed slightly different results, averaging 17 km/l in mixed driving conditions. This variability highlights that fuel efficiency is heavily dependent on driving style. The 44-liter fuel tank provides a decent range, though it’s worth noting that the hybrid system does contribute to better efficiency compared to traditional gasoline engines.

Interior and comfort: a pleasant and tech-forward space

The interior of the Lancia Ypsilon offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin. Soft suspension and sound-absorbing panels contribute to a refined driving experience. The inclusion of two 10.25-inch screens for infotainment is a welcome addition, providing an intuitive interface for navigation, media, and vehicle settings. While the infotainment system isn’t overly feature-rich, it’s easy to use and customizable.

Pros and cons: a quick rundown

• Pros: Stylish design, comfortable ride, good handling in the city, smooth transition between engine and electric power, useful cameras for parking, intuitive infotainment.
• Cons: Fuel consumption slightly higher than expected, relatively high price point, velvet seats in the LX trim can get warm.

Pricing and specifications: what does it cost?

The Lancia Ypsilon 1.2 Hybrid starts at €25,200 for the base model, with the HF Line and LX trims priced at €28,200. The car measures 4,080 mm in length, 1,760 mm in width, and 1,440 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,540 mm. The boot capacity ranges from 309 liters to 1,118 liters when the rear seats are folded down.

The verdict: a stylish but expensive contender

The Lancia Ypsilon 1.2 Hybrid is a visually appealing and comfortable small car with a modern powertrain. However, its price point may be a barrier for some buyers. While the fuel economy isn't quite as impressive as advertised, it remains respectable. It's a stylish option in the B segment, but potential buyers should carefully weigh the cost against the benefits.