The first photos of next generation Lancia Ypsilon prototypes have started to circulate as the new upmarket supermini begins the countdown to its launch at the 2009 Frankfurt IAA.

The first photos of next generation Lancia Ypsilon prototypes have started to circulate as the new upmarket supermini begins the countdown to its launch at the 2009 Frankfurt IAA. The photos clearly reveal a car based on the Panda/500 architecture, and the prototype caught out testing reveals work being carried out regarding engine airflow and cooling.

The next-generation Ypsilon will replace the current model introduced in 2003. The present Ypsilon, based on the previous-generation Fiat Punto floorpan, has proved popular in Italy, and propped up the brand’s sales during several bleak years for the Fiat Group earlier this decade. A facelifted version, which upgraded the styling, mechanicals and interior, was introduced two years ago at the 63rd Venice Film Festival. A string of special limited-editions versions have also been introduced, including the MomoDesign, Moda Milano and, from next March, the production version of the Versus, which was recently previewed at the Paris Motor Show.

A key Fiat Group strategy ever since Sergio Marchionne took over as CEO has been to rapidly reduce the number of platforms used across the Fiat, Lancia and Alfa Romeo ranges, and the new Ypsilon, after consideration, will be built on the group’s ‘Mini’ platform. This architecture has proved very versatile, and recently has been used to underpin the Car of the Year-winning Fiat 500 and the new Ford Ka. Several more models will also be spun off this platform in the next two years.

The new Ypsilon will use a slightly lengthened version of the 500 platform (which will also underpin the forthcoming 500 Giardiniera and future Panda), leaving it similar in size to the current model. Unlike the present Ypsilon, it will be offered in 5-door form only, although it is expected to feature hidden rear door handles. The lengthened platform can clearly be seen in the new spy photos in the bodywork distortions above the rear wheelarches, and is expected to add an additional 100mm to the wheelbase. This will give the Ypsilon a wheelbase of 2400mm, putting it squarely between the Panda/500 (2300mm) and the Grande Punto (2510mm).

The Panda-based prototype reveals Lancia’s traditional large radiator grille and Delta-influenced lower air intake, and the new model’s styling is generally expected to follow very closely the fashion set by the new C/D-segment Delta. The latter is already meeting sales expectations since its summer introduction, and has helped Lancia to move into positive territory across Europe during October and avoid the market’s sharp slump. Inside, the mule reveals Fiat 500 interior details, such as the dashboard, steering wheel, seats and instrument console, although the new Ypsilon is expected to stamp its individuality on the segment with quirky, style-setting cabin features.