One Lancia Ypsilon HF is Quick While the Other Merely Appears to Be | Carscoops

      The most powerful variant of the Italian supermini generates 276 hp from a single electric motor.

      17 hours ago

      by Thanos Pappas

      The Ypsilon HF boasts a 276-hp electric powertrain, enhanced chassis, and an aggressive body kit.

      Lancia also offers the HF Line, which features a sporty appearance but lacks performance and chassis enhancements.

      The company has revealed two racing editions of the Ypsilon: the HF Racing and Rally 4 HF.

      More than a year after its digital introduction, Lancia's eagerly anticipated hot hatch has finally arrived on the scene. The sub-compact Ypsilon HF was officially launched at the Balocco testing facility in Italy, providing the first comprehensive look at the fastest and most expensive Ypsilon to date.

      For those who appreciate a sporty look without the hefty price or power, there's also the HF Line for the supermini, a more economical option available in both hybrid and electric versions. This model retains much of the visual excitement while forgoing the mechanical upgrades.

      Performance

      Beginning with the fully-equipped Ypsilon HF, this hot hatch features a single electric motor that produces 276 hp (207 kW / 280 PS) and 345 Nm (255 lb-ft) of torque. This positions it alongside other high-performance EVs within the Stellantis family, such as the Abarth 600e, Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce, and the upcoming Opel Mokka GSE and Peugeot 208 GTI.

      Thanks to a front-mounted Torsen limited-slip differential, the Ypsilon HF can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds. While this is quick for its category, the top speed is a bit less impressive, capped at 180 km/h (112 mph). Powering the vehicle is a 54 kWh battery, which provides a WLTP-rated range of 370 km (230 miles) between charges.

      The HF features a reinforced chassis with revised suspension geometry and a lower ride height, sitting 20 mm (0.8 inches) closer to the ground compared to the standard Ypsilon. It has a wider stance, with an additional 30 mm (1.2 inches) at the front and rear tracks. Brakes have been enhanced with an Aclon system featuring monobloc four-piston calipers and 355 mm discs at the front.

      Visually Distinctive

      The Ypsilon HF is distinguished by a sportier body kit and unique 18-inch alloy wheels. Compared to the standard model, it has redesigned bumpers with larger air intakes, wider fenders with aerodynamic extensions behind the front wheels, a rear diffuser, and an HF badge featuring the iconic red elephant. Available colors include Nero Ardesia, Bianco Quarzo, and Arancione Lava, the latter paying homage to the racing liveries of classic Fulvia and Stratos models.

      Inside, the Ypsilon HF features an electric-blue dashboard, aluminum pedals, sports seats made from Econyl, and an abundance of HF logos. Standard features include dual 10.25-inch displays with customized graphics, wireless charging, ambient lighting, and Level 2 driver assistance systems. Lancia’s unique “multifunctional coffee table” console is also included.

      The HF Line as a Budget Option

      If the full-featured HF is beyond your budget or you don't require all that power, the HF Line offers a visually appealing alternative at a more affordable price. It shares the same bumpers and logos as the HF but lacks the wide fenders and comes with 17-inch alloy wheels. Inside, it features sporty seats with a “cannelloni-style” design highlighted by orange stitching. It remains stylish but with a less intense experience.

      Despite its aggressive look, the Ypsilon HF Line lacks any performance or chassis upgrades. It's offered with either a mild-hybrid 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing a modest 109 hp (81 kW / 110 PS), or the standard electric powertrain. In its internal combustion engine form, the HF Line achieves 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 9.3 seconds, which is 3.4 seconds slower than the HF. Interestingly, it achieves a higher top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph).

      Pricing and Availability

      The Ypsilon HF is expected to be available in European dealerships after the summer, while the HF Line is currently available for order. In Italy, the fully electric HF starts at €39,200 ($45,900), making it the most expensive Ypsilon ever sold. In contrast, the HF Line starts at a more reasonable €22,450 ($27,300) with the mild hybrid option.

      Racing Versions

      Lancia is also developing track-ready versions. Details have been released for two racing configurations of the Ypsilon, powered by non-electrified