A Premium Compact from the Fiat Group

The Ypsilon is a compact car sold under the Lancia brand in its home country of Italy. Due to the partnership between the Fiat Group and Chrysler, it is being launched in Japan under the Chrysler brand, as Lancia is not offered here. While the badge is Chrysler, the engineering is Fiat's.Chrysler "300" Announced SimultaneouslyIt is an important model that spearheads the relaunch of the Chrysler brand in Japan, alongside the Chrysler "300" also announced today.



The model introduced is the third-generation Ypsilon, unveiled at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show. It is a premium compact car belonging to the B-segment, featuring a distinctive design that tapers at the front while giving volume to the rear. While the previous generation was a 3-door based on the Punto, this generation is a 5-door based on the 500 (Cinquecento). The rear door handles are concealed within the pillars, creating the illusion of a 3-door, a design treatment shared with Alfa Romeo within the same group.



The body dimensions are 3,835mm in length, 1,675mm in width, and 1,520mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,390mm. In terms of length, it is slightly longer than the Mini Cooper (3,740mm) and slightly shorter than the Volkswagen Polo (3,995mm), but it is considerably taller.



The engine is the 0.9-liter TwinAir, a 2-cylinder turbo, shared with the Fiat 500. In normal mode, it delivers a maximum output of 63kW (85ps) at 1,900rpm and a maximum torque of 145Nm (14.8kgm) at 1,900rpm. However, when the eco mode is activated, the output is reduced to 57kW (77ps) and 100Nm (10.2kgm) for improved fuel efficiency. This results in excellent environmental performance, with CO2 emissions below 100g/km at 97g/km.



To further enhance fuel economy, the "START&STOP" idling stop system is standard, achieving a fuel efficiency of 19.3 km/ℓ under the JC08 mode.



The transmission is a single-clutch transmission called the "Dual Function System." Similar to the Cinquecento's "Dualogic," it is a clutchless manual with an automatic mode. In manual mode, it offers a direct shifting feel, while in automatic mode, it automatically selects the optimal gear for a comfortable drive, much like an automatic transmission. Furthermore, when the eco mode switch is on, it contributes to improved fuel efficiency.



In terms of safety, the chassis utilizes a higher proportion of ultra-high-strength steel, enhancing collision safety while reducing weight. Additionally, a "third load path" system, also used in the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, is installed at the front. This system is designed to efficiently absorb frontal impact energy in the event of an accident, minimizing the effect on the passenger compartment.



Other standard electronic control features include Hill Start Assist for easier hill starts, an electronic stability program, and ABS with EBD that adjusts braking force to each wheel according to load. All models also come standard with 6 airbags and 3-point seatbelts for all occupants.



In Japan, the Ypsilon will be available in two grades: the "Gold" at 2.35 million yen and the "Platinum" at 2.60 million yen, with different equipment and optional settings. Both seat five people and come standard with keyless entry, full-auto air conditioning, an MP3-compatible CD player, and rear parking sensors.



The "Gold" model features 15-inch alloy wheels and fabric seats, while the higher-grade "Platinum" model includes 16-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, bi-xenon headlights, cruise control, and privacy glass. Additionally, an optional electric sunroof called "Gran Luce," covering an area of 0.70 square meters, is available for the "Platinum" model.


Chrysler Ypsilon | Chrysler

Body Size | Length 3,835 x Width 1,675 x Height 1,520 mm

Wheelbase | 2,390 mm

Tread Front/Rear | 1,415 / 1,410 mm

Weight | 1,090 kg (1,130 kg with electric sunroof)

Engine | 875cc Inline 2-cylinder DOHC Intercooled Turbo

Max Output | 63kW (85ps) / 5,500 rpm

Max Torque | 145Nm (14.8kgm) / 1,900 rpm

Max Output (Eco Mode) | 57kW (77ps) / 5,500 rpm

Max Torque (Eco Mode) | 100Nm (10.2kgm) / 2,000 rpm

Transmission | 5-speed Sequential with AT Mode (Dual Function)

Drivetrain | FF

Tires | 185/55R15 (Gold) 195/45R16 (Platinum)

0-100km/h Acceleration | 12.2 seconds

Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 19.3 km/ℓ

CO2 Emissions | 97 g/km

Price | Gold 2.35 million yen / Platinum 2.60 million yen