Lancia Just Brought Back a Manual… and Made It Cheaper

Not everything has to move forward in the same direction. While most new cars are adding hybrid systems and automatic gearboxes, Lancia is doing something a bit different with the Ypsilon. It’s bringing back a simpler version, and in a way, it feels intentional.

The new Lancia Ypsilon Turbo 100 sits at the bottom of the range in Italy. Under the hood, there’s a 1.2-liter turbo three-cylinder, the same unit used across models like the Peugeot 208 and Fiat Grande Panda. Here, it makes 99 hp and 151 lb-ft, sent to the front wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox.

That manual part matters. It’s the first time in this new phase of Lancia that you actually get three pedals again. According to the brand, it’s something people asked for. Not everyone wants the car to do everything for them. Performance is modest but honest. 0 to 62 mph comes in 10.2 seconds, and it tops out at 121 mph.

From the outside, you wouldn’t really spot the difference. It looks just like the mild-hybrid version. Inside, though, it’s a different story. The gear lever takes over the space where that “coffee table” style console used to sit, which makes the whole layout feel more traditional.

There are three trims to choose from: the base Ypsilon, the more refined LX, and the HF Line with a sportier look. Even the entry model doesn’t feel stripped out. You still get dual 10.25-inch screens, climate control, USB-C, LED headlights, rear parking sensors, and a basic set of driver assists.

Price is where it starts to make a lot of sense. Every Turbo 100 is €3,000 cheaper than the mild-hybrid automatic versions. That means €22,200 ($26,200) for the base car and €25,200 ($29,700) for the LX and HF Line.

Go through financing, and it drops even more. Lancia says it can start from €15,950 ($18,800), with monthly payments from €99 ($117). That’s basically in line with the old 2023 model, just with newer tech and a bit more power.