Ypsilon saloon marks Lancia's first new car in 13 years

Lancia's first-ever electric has space for five people and 309 litres of luggage. Mild-hybrid versions with petrol engines are set to follow. Lancia/dpa

Italian brand Lancia has launched its first new car in 13 years, also marking a return to markets outside of its home country. It's also Lancia's first-ever electric, and mild-hybrid versions with petrol engines are set to follow.

The sub-compact hatchback uses the same underpinnings as the Peugeot 208 e-208, since the marque is part of the giant 14-badge Stellantis group.

Inside and out the car is completely new with more glitzy visuals than the Peugeot although some of the design cues were first seen last year on a concept version. The new Ypsilon made its debut in Italy but will not be exported until next year.

The car is built around a front-mounted motor with 154 horsepower and and it uses a 51-kWh battery pack that has enough juice for up to 403 kilometres) in the WLTP combined cycle.

Lancia boss Luca Napolitano announced a new upmarket Kappa saloon for 2026 and a revamped compact for 2028. All three new models will be available as more sporty HF variants. The Ypilson has space for five people and 309 litres of luggage.

The old Ypsilon was only sold in Italy and replacement is going to be offered at more than 70 dealers across Europe. Belgium and the Netherlands will get the car first.

Lancia has said it wants to attract a younger clientele of people aged 40-45 with its new "premium hatchback". Pricing has not yet been announced.

Lancia's first-ever electric has space for five people and 309 litres of luggage. Mild-hybrid versions with petrol engines are set to follow. Lancia/dpa