We Test the Lancia Ypsilon HF: The 'Little Elephant' Takes Flight Again

At the Balocco Circuit in Italy's Piedmont region, we were greeted by a Stratos HF, a Delta Integrale 16V, and a Rally 037. Alongside these automotive treasures stood one of Lancia's legendary drivers, Miki Biasion, a world champion in 1988 and 1989, who was the distinguished host of the new Ypsilon HF presentation event. The revived Italian brand aimed to imbue its new release with the nostalgic essence of those glorious years when it dominated the World Rally Championship, boasting ten World Constructors' Championships, three World Sports Prototype Championships, a 1000 Miglia, two Targa Florio, and a Carrera Panamericana.

The HF logo, born in the 1960s as the hallmark of Lancia's Squadra Corse, featuring its iconic galloping elephant, once again adorns the body of this Lancia Ypsilon HF. Based on the new Ypsilon launched in 2024, this version aims to announce to the world that the Italian brand, while moving forward with determination (its executives promise a new model every two years, starting in 2026 with the launch of the new Lancia Gamma), also seeks to revive its sporty DNA of yesteryear.

The new Lancia Ypsilon HF is equipped with a fully electric motor delivering 280 hp (207 kW and 345 Nm of torque), propelling you from 0 to 100 km/h in an impressive 5.6 seconds. Its top speed is 180 km/h, and with its 54 kWh (400 V) lithium-ion battery and fast charging capability of up to 100 km in 10 minutes, it offers a range of 370 km.

It features a suspension lowered by 20 mm, a track widened by 3 cm, and the lowest centre of gravity in its segment. Its design is minimalist yet muscular, thanks to its specific front bumpers, 18-inch alloy wheels, rear diffuser, and wheel arches. The body colours are available in Nero Ardesia, Bianco Quarzo, and the vibrant Arancione Lava, a tribute to the legendary Fulvia and Stratos racing cars.

Its design also features nods to the past, such as circular rear lights inspired by the Stratos. Similarly, its interiors, with sports seats made from Econyl inspired by the Delta Evoluzione, a perforated leather steering wheel with the HF logo, aluminium pedal set, new graphic interface, and a dashboard in blue and orange hues.

The occupant also benefits from a 10.25-inch digital display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, automatic climate control, wireless smartphone charging, the SALA Hub, and ambient lighting.

It also offers level 2 autonomous driving capabilities: automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and front and rear cameras.

For enhanced performance, the Ypsilon HF is equipped with a Torsen limited-slip differential, which, combined with its 345 Nm torque—the highest in its class—optimises traction in corners and improves safety in low-grip conditions. The Alcon braking system, with four-piston monobloc calipers and enlarged 355 mm discs, ensures power, stability, and resistance to fatigue.

Dynamics and pressure also improve over the standard version thanks to chassis and suspension adjustments, with rigidity increased by up to 67% in the front stabiliser bar and 153% in the rear. On the move, it offers exceptional stability, while the precision of the steering and refined suspension geometry provide the driver with more immediate and intuitive control.

At the new "Lancia HF Track" in Balocco, a facility for testing sports and rally cars featuring tight corners, bumps, technical curves, and low-traction surfaces, we experienced the new Ypsilon HF, a car with instant power delivery, and very stable and agile in quick direction changes.

The Ypsilon HF will arrive at dealerships after the summer, with a starting price of 42,100 euros.