Everyone who knows a thing or two
about cars was stunned to learn that Lancia outsold Alfa Romeo in the European
Union in the first six months of 2019. Yes, a brand reduced to a single
market (Italy) and a single eight-year-old model (Ypsilon) sold more units in
Europe than the Alfa Romeo brand in which parent company FCA poured massive
amounts of money to turn it into a credible rival for Germany’s big three
premium carmakers. The reason is that
Lancia has launched a new Ypsilon special edition model called Monogram, which
should help further boost sales in Italy.
The umpteenth special edition Lancia Ypsilon takes
its name from the letter “Y” which has been turned into a monogram featured
everywhere on the car. Offered in an exclusive color combination of light gold
and black, the Ypsilon Monogram introduces the letter “Y” as a graphic sign
representing the car’s signature. The monogram can be seen on the alloy wheel
centers, B-pillars, and rear screen, as well as on the headrests.
Other unique features include the A-pillars which
gradually change color from black to light gold as they join the bonnet, plus
gloss black trim – including inserts on the upper and lower grilles, door
handles, alloys, mirror caps, and rear bumper.
Inside, the Ypsilon Monogram gets new fabric
upholstery with light gold leather accents and stitching. The special edition
model also brings upgraded standard equipment including a DAB audio system,
Uconnect infotainment system with 5-inch touchscreen, air conditioning, leather
steering wheel, power-adjustable side mirrors, rear parking sensors, and fog
lights.
The engine lineup stays the same and includes a
naturally aspirated 1.2-liter Fire Evo II gasoline engine rated at 69 PS and available in a bi-fuel setup (gasoline and LPG), as well as an 80 PS 0.9-liter TwinAir turbocharged two-cylinder engine running on CNG and gasoline.
