Lancia has this
morning officially announced details of the new Ypsilon;
its arrival coincides with the 25th anniversary of the
small car and it will go on sale from June across key
European markets and from September under the Chrysler
badge in Great Britain and Ireland. The fourth series of
the Ypsilon, which is just 3.84 metres long is, for the
first time ever, proposed in a 5-door version.
The new Ypsilon will
debut on the occasion the Geneva Motor Show next month,
going on display alongside several Chrysler models which
will be rebadged and join the Lancia range. The four
impressions of the Ypsilon released this morning show a
design that has been influenced by family styling cues,
and in particular by its bigger sister the Delta. It is
hard to form too good an interpretation, the images show
a stylish and distinctive car; however the Ypsilon's
biggest visual problem will most likely be its loss of
the traditional Lancia grille, instead it gets a clumsy
Chrysler-inspired version that can be rebadged at
minimal cost.
Lancia press
release
The new Ypsilon is boosted by cutting-edge technology
applied to engines and comfort which not only delivers
reduced emissions and consumption - thanks to
technologies such as TwinAir, MultiJet II and Start&Stop
- but also offers unparalleled on-board wellbeing
through features unique in this category, including the
brand new “Blue&Me–TomTom LIVE” and the “Smart fuel”
system”, in addition to the innovative Magic Parking2,
Xenon headlights and LED tail lights.
Despite being a “5-door” model, it is just 3.84 metres
long – in response to recent market trends (this body
represents two thirds of segment B) and responds to the
needs of a broader target than that reached until now,
including young men and young families.
The new Ypsilon has
its sights set on becoming the alternative “premium”
city car for everyone, anywhere in Europe, designed as
it is for a demanding customer who likes to stand out
from the crowd but who also, at the same time, wants a
car that is enjoyable and comfortable for everyday use.
Without forgetting that nowadays the product itself is
not the only “premium” element for enticing a potential
customer. For this reason the brand has come up with
important new sales and after-sales proposals to cater
to the desires, needs, tastes and aspirations of many
different customers. An example? The extended warranty
devised by FGA Capital. What's exciting about this
solution is the extended duration from 36 to 96 months,
the unlimited mileage and the contents: a real “bumper
to bumper” proposal offering virtually complete cover
for the vehicle.
The new Ypsilon range
is broad and diverse right from the launch, with 3
engines, 17 elegant liveries, of which 4 are two-tone,
and 3 interior trim specifications (Silver, Gold and
Platinum) all designed to offer the customer high
product value. A refined and innovative Italian
“5-door”, therefore, the new Ypsilon represents the head
of the new Lancia range which harmoniously combines
sophisticated style, real substance and attentiveness to
customers.
Style: tradition meets
the future
Elements that recall the past are masterfully reworked
in a modern vein. This is the original style of the new
Ypsilon which once again reveals its feisty,
non-conformist character, in which the elegance and
refinement inherited from its distant forebears are
reworked, embracing new cross-fertilisation or
consolidating solutions which are by no means obvious.
So, while the exterior of the vehicle exudes an
intriguing style, the inside provides the perfect place
for elegance and innovation to join forces: on the one
hand there is meticulous attention to craftsmanship in
upholstery, which has always set Lancia cars apart from
the competition, then there is the use of highly
advanced design solutions. This union between elegance
and innovation produces the unmistakable Lancia class
which, like the best Italian luxury products, combines
unparalleled style with cutting-edge technology. And it
is precisely the Italian stylistic features that
transform a product “made in Italy” into something
unique. This is as true for fashion and fashion
accessories as it is for a successful car. Indeed, a
car's success is the result of a winning bet, of a flash
of stylistic intuition mediated by research on new
trends in tastes, on emerging customer needs and on
forecasts relating to market trends and rival models. In
short, it stems from a demanding recipe that is tested
by the most severe judge of all: time.
Exterior: originality
and innovation
Although it is compact, the new Ypsilon vehicle body
sports a streamlined look: this time the weight
proportions and graphics “play” the volumes differently,
distributing them nonetheless over very similar
dimensions to the previous Ypsilon. Indeed, compared to
the previous model, although the wheelbase is virtually
identical, there are design differences: the windscreen
is further forward while the front projection has been
shortened in order to increase the rear one, providing a
more spacious boot. Last but not least, the important
decision was taken to have five doors on all versions.
In the end, this adds almost six centimetres to the
overall length and trims two centimetres off the height,
achieving a sleeker look.
The volume of the front, nicely connected and pointed,
shows off a new grille: as in a metamorphosis, the stem
of the glass moves up, embracing the logo, and leaves
room for the horizontal bars, with “spear” shaped tips.
On one hand the spirit and non-conformist genes of the
Ypsilon, on the other, an acknowledgment of the past
with the sixties/seventies style grille. With a unique
design which is independent of other elements, the
headlights made by Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting
develop horizontally, highlighting the width of the
front end. These, in the xenon version, have rounded
elliptical modules that give the car an even more
aggressive and decisive “look”. In addition, the ends of
the headlights define the size of the wings at the side.
Above these and the grille rests the bonnet, like a lid,
delineating a clear horizontal division: the design is
subtly reminiscent of the lines of the Lancia Ardea.
The side sports elements that hint at the car's
personality and character, and these are offset by other
more discreet lines: the handle of the rear door is
concealed, integrated into the structure, thus
emphasising the front door handle. The final effect is
that of a compact 3-door city car with all the comfort
of a 5-door model. The convex section of the doors is
sculpted by a delicate concave section which fades on
the side, dynamically enclosing the sign produced.
Viewed from the side, lastly, you note two dynamically
sweeping curves: the first departs from line of the
bonnet, sweeps along the waistline and up the rear
pillar. The second, climbing from the bottom of the
front pillar, traces the upper arch of the glass,
intersecting the first curve, rising from the pillar
below, and descends to delineate the outer edge of the
rear window. The effect of a clear separation between
the roof and the rear pillar is a familiar reference to
the Lancia Delta.
The general volume of the rear is tapered for improved
aerodynamics, featuring a pronounced tailgate, hollowed
in the middle: the space obtained accommodates the
number plate at the bottom; above this, set like a
jewel, is the rear window which is delineated laterally
by the lines descending from the pillar arch and from
the spoiler above. The shoulders emerge from the side
panels and generate volumes which, running down the
sides of the tailgate, link up with and embrace the tail
lights. Their external positioning and vertical
development, typical of recent Lancias, is emphasised by
the layout of the functions: long LED light-guide bars
for the sidelights and, below, brake lights; laterally
at the bottom, a triangular space houses the indicators.
The bottom part of the bumper has a black centre band
which accommodates and protects the reverse light and
the rear fog light, lightening the overall volume. The
overall design of the new Ypsilon was conceived right
from the outset to separate the various parts of the car
in order to favour the two-tone version in the boldest,
sleekest and most attractive way possible.
Interiors: the essence
of luxury
The new Ypsilon confirms and expands the heritage of its
predecessors, adding even more elegance and innovation.
The characteristics that have always distinguished
Lancia's small city-cars (such as exquisite, unique
upholstery for interiors) are reworked, combining class
and hi-tech content. The concepts that guided the design
of the compartment are rooted in the glorious past of
the brand, but with the addition of a strong
technological emphasis. Right from the drawing board
stage, the inspiration for the interior was an embrace.
The instrument panel is embraced by the door panels
which, in the back, surround the seats perfectly. The
design of the dashboard aims to highlight the contrast
between the fabric insert that extends towards the
occupants, with the upper part which traces the line of
the windscreen, outlining it like an amphitheatre. The
constructed curves create an effect of perspective, with
the vanishing points positioned at the end of the
dashboard in order to accentuate its width. The
passenger space is therefore created through subtraction
of volumes and is represented by hollow surfaces which
combine a different functional and perceptive usability
with aesthetic seduction. Analyzing the shapes, the
construction is visible in the overlapped layers. The
first are upholstered, covered with soft materials to
enhance the impression of comfort and tactile
experience, reminding the occupants of a domestic
setting, as if they were sitting comfortably on their
own sofa. Sinuous lines yield in places to more
technical ones which characterise the vents and the
centre console. The contrast between the elements is
marked by a slender black ribbon which cuts vertically
across the instrument panel and links the central
instrumentation to the gearbox, giving an impression of
lightness highlighted at the ends by white LEDs. The
console housing the radio and climate control system is
a floating element resting on the central diffuser,
while the metallic vents emerge from “tears” in the
fabric. Lastly, the design of the door panels is simple
and enveloping while the comfortable, high containment
seats lend a sporty edge.
Colours and trim levels
Three interior trim levels are available for the new
Ypsilon, characterised by different colours, materials
and styles: customers can choose from dynamic and sporty
versions, or more opulent versions that are reworked in
a contemporary vein and express the car's strong
personality. The first, the Silver trim level, is aimed
ideally at a young target audience: the interior is
characterised by fabric upholstery with a dynamic
spirit. The distinguishing feature of this trim level is
the presence of graphics employing contrasting materials
and colours. The Ypsilon logo is an expression of self,
becoming a hallmark, adding 3-dimensional texture and
character. The Gold trim level is aimed at a target
which on the one hand is strong and determined, and on
the other feminine and fashion-conscious. The interior
offers two chromatic choices: “Urban Black” and
“Romantic Gold” dark brown. The first is absolute, a
real protagonist, and is animated by contrast with
“antracite grey”, which highlights the graphics sculpted
on the central part, clearly delineating the logo, the
car's identity. Refined and elegant, the second version
communicates through soft graphic signs, highlighted by
the contrasting iridescent gold of the trim on the
dashboard and door panels. The graphics are enveloping,
with fashion-inspired details and weaves. Lastly, the
Platinum trim level represents the evolution of the Gold
trim level, once again identifying two versions: total
“Urban Black” and “Romantic Gold”, where brown becomes
metallic and iridescent. Aggressive and determined, the
contemporary black look conveys its spirit through
contrasting materials and ton sur ton, glossy/matt
colours. Signs are imprinted in a crisp, 3-dimensional,
unequivocal manner. matt leather dominates, inviting
possible interpretations of a luxury sports interior.
The sophisticated “new romantic” interior gives a new
take on concepts of timeless elegance and classic
colours, reworking this language with soft signs which
are nonetheless highly expressive and strongly defined
by the impression of the material.
Substance: Ypsilon has
“grown”
The Ypsilon family has always been synonymous with style
and motoring enjoyment. Now new Ypsilon has “grown”,
enhancing its offer with the addition of a number of
important new features. The most obvious are the rear
passenger doors, in addition to a range of
environmentally-friendly engines and a raft of features
– standard and optional - designed to improve on-board
comfort.
5 doors but with a
3-door look
The new Ypsilon is a stylish Italian “5-door” with the
look typical of a “3-door”. It is a very compact car, so
much so that it remains in segment "B Premium”, yet it
offers surprising room and exceptional comfort: although
just 384 cm long, 167 cm wide and 151 cm high, with a
wheelbase of 239 cm, the new Ypsilon can accommodate up
to five people, has one of the most spacious boots in
its segment, in relation to dimensions, and is one of
the best in class in terms of passenger room. Without
increasing the size of the rear passenger area,
excellent accessibility and comfort have been achieved
with the use of “slim seats”, a technology used here for
the first time by Fiat Group Automobiles.
Engines: the essence of
power and respect for the environment
The new Ypsilon range comprises:
- 2 petrol engines: 69 HP 1.2 8V and 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir,
the latter also with DFN semi-automatic gearbox;
- a turbodiesel: 95 HP 1.3 MultiJet II;
- a dual-fuel. 1.2 8V petrol and LPG.
The Euro 5 compliant 69 HP 1.2 8V engine, thanks to the
Start&Stop system adopted that delivers a further
reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of
around 5%, is the latest evolution in the Fire family
which, thanks to continuous updates and flexible
architecture, remains a benchmark for the category. The
second engine, the 0.9 TwinAir, is the ideal solution
for city use but, compared to the previously mentioned
69 HP 1.2, it has more power (85 HP) and torque (145 Nm
at 2000 rpm). The first of a new family of two-cylinder
engines by Fiat Powertrain, delivering from 65 to 105
HP, this 85 HP Turbo delivers a significant reduction in
fuel consumption and emissions (up to 30% less than an
engine of equal performance). In addition, for more
“eco-friendly” driving and reduced fuel consumption, you
can simply press the ECO button on the dashboard, which
limits torque to 100 Nm at 2000 rpm. This allows the car
to reach segment-leading CO2 emission levels: 97 g/km
with DFN semi-automatic gearbox and 99 g/Km with manual
gearbox. Among other things, the DFN semi-automatic
gearbox, which was originally launched on the Ypsilon
back in 2003, developed in conjunction with Magneti
Marelli, has been updated to offer greater driving
comfort and at the same time reduce fuel consumption and
emissions.
A real jewel of engine design, the two-cylinder employs
the revolutionary MultiAir technology developed and
patented by Fiat Powertrain which was introduced in
2009. The heart of MultiAir is a new electro-hydraulic
valve management system that reduces fuel consumption by
controlling air directly via the inlet valves (without
using the throttle). MultiAir reduces polluting
emissions (thanks to combustion control) and also
considerably improves performance by boosting
driveability. Indeed, compared to a traditional petrol
engine of equal displacement, MultiAir engines guarantee
an increase in power (up to 10%) and torque (up to 15%)
in addition to a significant reduction in emissions of
CO2 (up to 10%).
Still with a view to respect for the environment coupled
with maximum driving satisfaction, the new Ypsilon range
offers the lively 1.3 MultiJet II (Euro5), with the
Start&Stop system as standard, which delivers a maximum
output of 95 HP at 4000 rpm and a torque of 200 Nm at
just 1500 rpm. Equipped with a variable geometry
turbocharger, a new variable displacement engine oil
pump and alternator with “smart charge”, the 1.3
MultiJet II produces just 99 g/km of CO2 emissions in
the combined cycle and belongs to the second generation
of MultiJet engines: it incorporates new common rail
injectors which, thanks to a balanced hydraulic
servo-valve, control the quantity of fuel injected into
the combustion chamber with great precision, and in a
faster and more flexible sequence than in the past (up
to 8 injections in the same cycle). This allows better
control of the diesel combustion with benefits in terms
of consumption, emissions, noise levels and
driveability.
Lastly, new Ypsilon can be powered by a 69 HP 1.2
dual-fuel (petrol-LPG) Euro 5-compliant engine which
produces 110 g/km of CO2 in the combined cycle: this is
the best demonstration of Lancia’s constant attention to
environmental issues through research and development of
concrete solutions that are within everybody's reach and
available now (LPG is a “clean”, economical and widely
available fuel).
All petrol and diesel engines are equipped with the
Start&Stop device, already adopted on the Musa and Delta
models, which switches the engine off temporarily and
then restarts it in order to reduce fuel consumption and
CO2 emissions. Along with the Start&Stop device, there
is the Gear Shift Indicator (GSI), a genuine “co-pilot”
that discreetly prompts drivers to change gear, leading
to more efficient use of the engine in terms of fuel
consumption. The GSI may suggest shifting to a higher
gear, by means of an indication on the control panel, in
order to allow the engine to combust a leaner mixture,
i.e. containing less fuel, or to change down a gear to
make best use of the available torque.
Last but not least, the new Ypsilon's excellent
performance in the area of reduced CO2 emissions is
aided by a new generation of 15” low rolling resistance
tyres developed by Goodyear. Designed with innovative
technology and state-of-the-art materials, Goodyear
EfficientGrip tyres have a lighter structure which
provides a reduction of the rolling resistance. This
equates to fewer CO2 emissions and reduced fuel
consumption, without compromising whatsoever on driving
performance.
The essence of
technology for maximum comfort and driving satisfaction
Lancia new Ypsilon is a real flagship “concentrate”,
packed with exclusive equipment that makes it an elite
automobile. Travelling in the new model, you discover a
bright, welcoming passenger compartment that guarantees
incomparable comfort but also a technologically advanced
space. An example? the LED lighting on the dashboard and
the noise absorbent roof made using an innovative
polyester-based material which, reducing the noise
inside the passenger compartment by around 2 dB,
guarantees extremely quiet running. All this is further
enhanced by the large Granluce sunroof which, thanks to
a glazed area measuring 0.64 m2 (a record for segment
B), ensures excellent light levels. Leader in the “city
car” category, the new Ypsilon offers an exciting range
of features: from “Magic Parking” and “Blue&Me–TomTom2”
to the “Smart fuel” system and innovative headlight
clusters.
“Magic Parking”
This is the second generation of the parking system
which, activated by means of a button on the dashboard,
helps the driver to locate a suitable free parking
space, measuring and controlling lateral movement of the
vehicle, while the driver maintains control of
longitudinal vehicle motion throughout. A development of
the system already used on Delta, the new Ypsilon's
Magic Parking enables automatic "multi-manoeuvre"
parking and reduces the required size of parking space
to just 80 cm longer than the vehicle itself. This way,
the new Ypsilon can be parked in a space measuring just
4.6 m (the average length of a segment C car). The
device is available both with manual gearbox and DFN
gearbox.
“Blue&Me–TomTom LIVE”
The new vehicle will launch “Blue&Me–TomTom LIVE”, a
development of the infotelematic system created as a
result of a partnership between Fiat Group Automobiles
and TomTom, European leader in portable navigation
devices, which exploits the versatility of the Blue&Me
system. Based on the TomTom Go1000 model, with its
practical colour touchscreen, the device allows you to
manage your mobile phone, satellite navigation and all
necessary driving information, which it acquires
directly from the on-board electronic systems; it also
allows you to control your mediaplayer through the
touchscreen interface. Compared to the “Blue&Me TomTom
LIVE” offered until now on some Fiat Group Automobiles
vehicles, this latest version proposes a 4.3" cm HD
touchscreen with “fluid touch screen” and the HD Traffic
function, enabling better route planning as the
information it uses comes from the information provided
by GSM mobile phones, with info updated every 2 minutes.
Lastly, the device is “connected” i.e. it lets you
access “LIVE services” such as weather forecasts and
Google search through a wireless connection
“Smart fuel” system
Filling up is one of those operations which has not
developed in step with automotive technology: on the
other hand, with new Ypsilon it takes a huge leap
forward with the innovative “Smart fuel system”.
Designed with particular attention to female customers,
the system comprises a device fitted to the end of the
fuel filler pipe which replaces the fuel cap, making
refuelling easier but also safer since it reduces gas
emissions and fuel overflow.
Cutting-edge headlight
clusters
Like the Delta and Musa models and the few cars in
segment B, the new Ypsilon is fitted with headlamps and
tail lights developed in conjunction with Magneti
Marelli Automotive Lighting, which combine advanced
technology with an innovative design that is
nevertheless inspired by the century-old Lancia
tradition. The tail lights are fitted with LEDs, which
are brighter than conventional bulbs, thus providing
enhanced safety coupled with a distinctive look: indeed,
with the lights off, they appear monochromatic, while
when switched on they light up in the colour of the
functions determined by the LEDs themselves. The front
headlights, meanwhile, feature an integrated solution
with “daytime running lights” (Adaptive Daytime LED),
which automatically turns on the sidelights when the
engine is started: this is with a view to meeting a
specific European standard which comes into force in
2012. In addition, xenon front light clusters are also
available, cutting-edge technology available on very few
models in the segment which offers style, technology and
safety.
Customisation: a car
“made to measure” for the customer
Everyone can find the new Ypsilon that best suits his or
her demands and tastes. Suffice to day that there are
over 600 possible customisations for the “mini
flagship”, created by mixing and matching the 17 body
shades, of which 4 are two-tone, 3 interior trim levels
(Silver, Gold and Platinum), 6 different upholstery
trims and 3 types of alloy wheels. In addition, for
those eager to customise their new Ypsilon and make it
truly exclusive, Lineaccessori Lancia has developed an
extensive range of fine, top quality products that not
only offer great style and meticulous attention to
detail, but also go beautifully with the car, in line
with the unmistakable Lancia style and in complete
harmony with its technical, stylistic and mechanical
characteristics: from exclusive 16” alloy wheels, side
skirts and tinted headlights to a black kickplate with
illuminated logo, a “Blue&Me–TomTom LIVE2” satellite
navigation system and GPS tracker, not to mention the
Accessories Packs which will make it easier and more
convenient than ever to choose. In short, no matter
what the level of customisation, the new Ypsilon is
always fascinating and original, fully reflecting
Italian style, which is famous around the world, with an
attractive price list that reflects the Lancia brand's
desire to make the cars' legendary class accessible.
Extended warranty
FGA Capital in partnership with FGA brands has created a
new, more comprehensive and highly attractive concept of
extended warranty which replaces the products currently
on offer. Available from April - first in Italy, Spain
and Portugal, but scheduled to be rolled out in all
European markets at some point this year - the new
service will be a distinguishing element for the launch
of the new Ypsilon as well as for the rest of the Lancia
range. What's exciting about this new warranty is the
extended duration from 36 to 96 months, the unlimited
mileage and the cover: a real “bumper to bumper”
proposal offering virtually complete cover for the car.
So, the introduction of this tool is guaranteed to make
new Ypsilon stand out among the commercial offering and
the uniformity of content that prevails in all European
markets.
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