The Ypsilon will be made on the platform of the Fiat 500 but will offer an extended wheelbase and a five-door configuration, which will provide substantially more interior space than the three-door Fiat 500. From the spyshots we can clearly tell that the rear hatch and lights follow the design of the previous generation but will add a more modern twist. As was the case with the old generation, the Lancia will feature high-quality cabin trim and materials, with customers offered a variety of options to personalize their car.
The new Ypsilon is rumored to debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show in March next year and will probably have an engine lineup consisting of three Fiat-sourced mills: a 0.9 SGE, the 1.4 Multiair and the 1.3 Multijet diesel. Rumors have also been circulating that the Ypsilon could have a hybrid version and even an all-electric one in the near future.
Sales are expected to begin before summer 2012 across the European market. Although Fiat sees long-term potential in the Ypsilon, sales aren’t expected to top 1,800 units per year.
The current Lancia Ypsilon is the brand's smallest offering and dates back to 2003, with a minor facelift taking place in 2006. Some reports indicate that the Ypsilon could, like the Delta, be re-badged as a Chrysler, potentially taking the Java name from the concept Chrysler showcased at the 1999 Frankfurt Motor Show.
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