Background
Now owned by the Fiat Group with all the added benefits that this alliance brings Chrysler has launched two new models; the Delta and the Ypsilon, both of which have been sold under the Lancia badge in Europe. Due to a negative reputation back in the 1990's Lancia stopped selling in the UK and the launch of the new Chrysler Ypsilon is thought to be their strategy back into the UK market.
A small, urban car that has the same base platform as the Fiat 500 the Chrysler Ypsilon is shorter than its rivals at 3.8 metres whilst retaining five doors. It comes in both diesel and petrol and a range of engine sizes. Aimed at the more luxurious end of the market the Ypsilon has an array of extra features not normally associated with these smaller cars and according to Chrysler will be a mixture of cutting edge technology, segment leading style and world class engines.
Bang for your buck
The Chrysler Ypsilon comes in three engine sizes, the first the latest incarnation of the Fire engines family, an eight valve 1.2 litre that produces good torque and a start stop feature that improves overall fuel economy by five percent.
The TwinAir engine; the 2011 International Engine of the Year powers the 0.9 litre and combines revolutionary MultiAir technology with a two cylinder block and turbocharger. This combination makes this model an even more economical car along with it producing the lowest emissions of any petrol car on sale. The MultiJet 1.3 litre is the final engine of the range; a diesel offering great low speed cruising.
Trim comes in three levels, the entry level trim, the S comes with a good standard range of equipment including 50/50 split seat, 15 inch wheels, fully adjustable driver's seat, premium upholstery and CD/MP3 player along with a full complement of safety features. The SE level adds in Castiglio upholstery, manual climate control and electronically controlled door mirrors amongst other things. The Limited version swaps fabric for leather, has 15 inch alloys and electric rear windows.
With their eye firmly on the upper end of the market Chrysler has also made a range of other options available including a full range of paint options including bi-colour along with 16 inch alloys, cruise control, automatic climate control, dusk/rain sensors and a surround sound system. Other smart technologies that you opt for include Smart Fuel system, Magic Parking and Blue&Me.
What you'll pay
For a base level 1.2 engine new Chrysler Ypsilon expect to pay around the £10,695 mark. Up the model and trim to say a Limited 0.9 TwinAir and you could be paying up to £15,695. The 1.3 MultiJet SE will cost around £14,195.
The limited edition black and red Ypsilon launched last year with prices ranging from £12,750 for the 1.2 petrol, to £13,950 for the 0.9 TwinAir or £14,950 for the 1.3 MultiJet. Along with the colour coded red and black interior, the exterior benefits from black glass, 16 inch alloys, 360 degree sound system and air conditioning.
What to check
From new the Chrysler Ypsilon should be a great runner and will come with a standard warranty package. Some testers would warn though to be more careful as the car ages, remembering that it has a Fiat underpinning and Fiat have not always been known for the best mechanics. Lots of reviews are encouraging you to go for the used Chrysler Ypsilon 1.2 petrol; the saving in initial purchase price easily outweighs any additional fuel usage when compared to the other models.
Parts
Initially covered by your 3 year manufacturer's warranty it may be worth extending this if you can. Used Chrysler Ypsilons are not expected to have particularly strong residuals so you may be able to pick one up at a great price.
How it drives
With the lumpy, bumpy state that the UK's roads are in the Ypsilon's suspension can feel a little too firm, although conversely it then has a habit of wallowing around corners. Noise across the engine types is relatively high and the Chrysler Ypsilon also generating a lot of wind and road noise. That said the Ypsilon should represent a cheap and relatively reliable second hand purchase in its class.
