Official Presentation of the New Rally Car
The new Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale has appeared in official photos for the first time. This model features aggressive bodywork and is equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. It occupies a higher position compared to the HF Racing and Rally 4 HF versions of the Lancia Ypsilon.
Lancia’s Strategy in Motorsport
Lancia may not have achieved the desired success in sales of the new Ypsilon, but it continues to bet on a return to motorsport. This is why the Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale rally car for the WRC2 category was presented.
Design and Exterior
The new car looks significantly more aggressive than the base Ypsilon HF Racing and the mid-range Ypsilon Rally 4 HF, despite the similar white-black-red livery with the legendary red elephant. The redesigned body kit includes deep bumpers, a hood with ventilation holes and quick-release fasteners, wide fender flares, and a much larger rear wing. Sports mirrors, a roof air intake, and white alloy wheels with slick tires have also been installed.
Historical Context and Debut
Although the new Integrale has not yet debuted in rally, its B-pillar already has a list of trophies. Lancia is the most successful manufacturer in WRC history with 10 championship titles between 1974 and 1992, which were won by the Stratos, 037, and various versions of the Delta.
The official statement regarding the new rally car was limited to this sentence: “The new Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale debuts, carrying the legendary spirit of Lancia’s rally victories into modern motorsport. And this is just the beginning.”
Technical Specifications
Although Lancia has not disclosed the specifications, it is known that the car complies with the Rally2 regulations. This means it is equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, a five-speed sequential gearbox, and all-wheel drive with mechanical differentials. There is also a minimum weight requirement of 1230 kg.
Connection with Stellantis
The new Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale is likely to borrow some components from its Stellantis group sibling – the Citroen C3 Rally2. The latter was introduced in 2018 and received technical updates in 2024. It is based on the previous generation C3, has similar bodywork, and a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing 282 hp.
Future Plans
Lancia will announce additional details about the Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale in due course. The model is expected to compete in the WRC support category from next year, with a possible debut at the Monte Carlo Rally in January. Among its competitors are the Rally2 versions of the Skoda Fabia RS, Hyundai i20N, Toyota GR Yaris, Ford Fiesta, and the aforementioned Citroen C3.
Price and Comparison
As for the price, Rally2 class models typically cost around €200,000–300,000, making them significantly more expensive than the junior versions: the Ypsilon HF Racing is priced at €38,900, and the Ypsilon Rally 4 HF starts from €74,500.
This move by Lancia demonstrates their commitment to motorsport and their desire to regain past glory. The use of technologies from other Stellantis brands could provide competitive advantages, and the brand’s historical heritage adds a special charm to this model. Success in WRC2 could positively impact the brand’s image and attract new fans.