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Even though being what the corporation has become most famous for, it’s been decades since Lancia previously manufactured a genuine hot hatch — not particularly surprising given it’s solely marketed one vehicle for the past decade anyway. That’s finally transitioning next year with the roadworthy Ypsilon HF, a totally electric performance variant of Lancia’s funky new hatchback, and the HF is generating a racing variant that will contend in the Rally4 class.
Lancia hasn’t revealed many specifics or images about the Ypsilon HF yet, as it won’t be released until May 2025, but from what we can observe, it seems impressive. The front-wheel-drive Ypsilon HF will produce 240 horsepower, almost 100 more than the standard vehicle, which is adequate for it to achieve 62 mph in 5.8 seconds. Added performance upgrades will incorporate a lower suspension and larger, broader wheels; anticipate other adjustments to the steering, brakes, and other mechanisms.
The HF really appears the part too, with impressive three-spoke wheels, broader fender flares, larger intakes, and a variety of black trim. Internally, there are vivid blue seats with red perforations and a diagonal pattern, plus numerous HF icons and badges.
It’s excellent to see that HF branding making a recovery, particularly as the elephant logo is among the most adorable and best in automotive history. It initially emerged in 1960, all thanks to a club of zealous owners. Lancia states:
Returning to shine on the Lancia Ypsilon HF, the HF logo is the historical signature of high-performance Lancia models, initially introduced during the 1960 Geneva Motor Show, when a faction of devoted Lancia auto owners created the “Lancia Hi-Fi” (‘High Fidelity’) club, an exclusive gathering spot for the brand’s most faithful customers and especially for individuals who had purchased at least six new Lancia cars. The HF logo later became an emblem of the HF Squadra Corse Lancia, founded in 1963 by Cesare Fiorio alongside drivers and zealous owners of Lancia autos, and was utilized as the ‘stamp’ for numerous of the brand’s triumphs.
The historical logo was composed of HF in white uppercase on a black backdrop, with four red running elephants underscored by the wording “SQUADRA CORSE” in white on red. The little elephant was chosen as a talisman, based on the myth that once released, these creatures are unstoppable, making them a symbol of performance and driving delight. Unveiled in March in its reimagined form, the latest HF logo reinterprets its historical equivalent with a modern touch: all the fundamental components of the brand signify Lancia tradition and are currently simplified in terms of lines and shapes in a new equilibrium that conveys innovation, premium characteristics, and the Italian attitude, with a hint of eclecticism in thorough respect of the brand’s unmistakable geometries.
Regarding the rally variant of the Ypsilon HF, it shares its base and powertrain with the Opel Corsa and Peugeot 208 rally autos. Rally4 is the introductory tier class in rally racing, showcasing homologated two-wheel-drive autos that possess a power-to-weight ratio of 5.1 kg per horsepower. The Rally4 Ypsilon HF features a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, which in the Opel generates 212 hp and 214 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a 5-speed sequential gearbox and a mechanical limited-slip differential.
Lancia introducedThe Ypsilon HF Rally4 showcases its iconic Martini livery, featuring a cool set of wheels, large hood vents, and a roof scoop. Notably, the rally car sports modified bumper design and other styling elements that deviate from the regular road car, but these might undergo changes before the vehicle hits the competition circuit. Lancia claims that the Ypsilon HF Rally4 is not only perfect for rally enthusiasts but also a strong contender for drivers aiming for triumph in the R4 category and two-wheel drive championships.
It wouldn’t be surprising to witness Lancia introducing Ypsilon variants to take part in higher rally classes soon. The brand might also explore this avenue with other models: Lancia has plans to reveal a flagship Gamma crossover and a fresh Delta, both sporting electric powertrains and likely receiving HF variations. The prospect of a Lancia Delta taking on rally challenges fills me with excitement.
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