Lancia unveiled the first hot hatch of its new era, the Ypsilon HF ahead of its market launch in May 2025. This fully electric model combines 237 horsepower with a redesigned body kit and a sharper chassis setup.They’ve also confirmed that the HF treatment will be applied to all future Lancia models, including the Gamma crossover and the Delta hatchback. Alongside the road-going EV, Lancia also previewed the ICE-powered Ypsilon Rally 4 HF, marking its much-anticipated return to motorsports.
Returning to the sporty Ypsilon, the HF
logo with the red elephant is mounted on a new front bumper featuring larger
and more angular intakes. The profile showcases wide fender extensions that
accentuate the version-specific alloy wheels with a six-spoke design. Although
Lancia didn’t provide a glimpse of the tail, we anticipate a similar treatment,
possibly including a rear spoiler and a diffuser. The subcompact hatchback is
equipped with a single front-mounted electric motor producing 237 horsepower. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds,
significantly quicker than the standard EV and mild-hybrid variants. The
enhanced powertrain is complemented by a lowered suspension and wider tracks,
aimed at bolstering its road-holding capabilities.
Signaling its much-anticipated return to
motorsports, Lancia has unveiled the Ypsilon Rally 4 HF, a new contender for
the R4 rally class. The highlight is the stunning new interpretation of the
iconic Martini livery, reminiscent of the championship-winning Lancia 037 and
Delta Integrale models. Beyond the eye-catching livery, the Rally 4 boasts a
functional roof-mounted scoop, a pair of hood vents for improved engine
cooling, and a set of white multi-spoke alloy wheels. It also borrows the
aggressive bodykit from the Ypsilon HF, completing the motorsport-ready look.
Unlike its road-going counterpart, the
Rally 4 utilizes a beefed-up version of the turbocharged 1.2-liter
three-cylinder gasoline engine, churning out an impressive 209 hp of power. A five-speed gearbox sends power to the front wheels with the
help of a limited-slip differential for enhanced traction. We can also expect
rally-tuned suspension and brakes to maximize performance for its competitive
role. Additionally, Lancia unveiled the Lancia Corse HF logo, which will be
used for its future racing cars.
While Lancia hasn’t yet announced a
specific date for the Ypsilon’s rallying debut, we expect to learn more details
in the coming months. This highly anticipated return comes from a brand steeped
in motorsport history. Lancia holds the record as the most successful brand in
rallying, having secured a staggering 15 WRC titles, three Constructors’ and
Endurance World Championships, one 1000 Miglia victory, two Targa Florio wins,
and one Carrera Panamericana trophy.
