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Marking the 25th anniversary since the introduction of the Ypsilon (first as the Y10 in 1985, then as the Y in 1996, and finally as the Ypsilon from 2003 and onwards), Lancia is presenting the fourth generation of its luxed-up supermini in a world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The much delayed successor to the outgoing Ypsilon, which has been in production since 2003, has been designed from the ground up, and for the first time in the model's history, is offered in a five-door body style.

Even though the Ypsilon shares its platform and mechanical hardware with Fiat's small cars, the Lancia model won't be mistaken for anything else thanks to the bespoke styling, which incorporates a number of design cues from the larger Delta. Exterior highlights include the hidden rear door handles that give the impression of a three-door model and a new interpretation of Lancia's grille, designed to match Chrysler's version as seen on the 200 and 300 models.

As with all past incarnations of the Ypsilon, the newcomer promises to offer a high-quality interior and some 600 customization possibilities created by mixing and matching the 17 body colors (four of which are two-tone), 3 interior trim levels (Silver, Gold and Platinum), 6 different upholstery trims and 3 types of alloy wheels plus an extensive range of other options.

The Italian firm's premium city car measures 3,840mm in length, 1,670mm in width, 1,510mm in height, and rides on a 2,390mm-long wheelbase. Lancia claims the new Ypsilon "can accommodate up to five people, has one of the most spacious boots in its segment, in relation to dimensions, and is one of the best in class in terms of passenger room".

At launch, there will be four engines on offer, depending on the market: a 1.2-liter petrol unit with 69HP; a 0.9-liter turbocharged two-cylinder petrol with 85HP; a 1.3-liter MultiJet II turbo diesel delivering 95HP and a dual-fuel petrol-LPG 1.2-liter unit producing 69HP.

All petrol and diesel engines are equipped with a Start&Stop system while some models also get low rolling resistance tires developed by Goodyear.

The new Ypsilon which will go on sale from June across key European markets and from September under the Chrysler badge in Great Britain and Ireland. And no, the Fiat Group did not say if it has any plans to bring the Chrysler...Ypsilon over to the States.

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