Lancia Ypsilon HF vs HF Line: Which One Is Right for You?

Lancia has made a bold move with the debut of its 280-horsepower Ypsilon HF and the Ypsilon HF Line, redefining what sporty compact cars can be. Presented at the newly inaugurated “Lancia HF Track” within the Balocco Proving Ground—one of Europe’s most technical circuits—these models represent much more than a product launch. They are a full-throttle commitment to Lancia’s ongoing renaissance.

The Ypsilon HF stands out as Lancia’s first high-performance electric compact car. It delivers 345 Newton-meters of torque, accelerates from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 5.6 seconds, and features a Torsen limited-slip differential that puts that torque to the pavement with incredible precision. The inclusion of an Alcon braking system ensures high-performance stopping power—vital when dealing with this level of speed and agility.

Visually, both the HF and the HF Line share a design language steeped in heritage. A refreshed Red Elephant logo, darkened badges, dedicated bumpers, and electric-blue accents show Lancia is leaning into its past while racing into the future. On the inside, sports seats, a digital 10.25-inch cluster, and a double 10.25-inch infotainment screen with unique HF graphics enhance the high-tech yet heritage-inspired cabin.

For those who love performance but prefer internal combustion, the Ypsilon HF Line introduces the HF spirit through a 1.2-liter mild-hybrid engine with 110 horsepower and 48-volt technology. This setup offers a top speed of 190 kilometers per hour and goes from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 9.3 seconds. While it is less aggressive than its fully electric sibling, it still offers an exciting drive with lower emissions and greater efficiency.

The HF Line is already available in showrooms, while the Ypsilon HF will be hitting roads later this summer. Both models are part of a broader revival plan that began with the debut of the New Ypsilon in 2024 and will continue with the new Gamma model scheduled for production in 2026 at the iconic Melfi plant.

Lancia is not stopping at street-legal models. The brand’s motorsport chapter is revving back to life with the introduction of the 212-horsepower Ypsilon Rally4 HF. This rally-ready car will be the centerpiece of the 2025 Trofeo Lancia cup. The stakes are high: if the overall champion is under 35 years old, they will secure a spot on Team Lancia for the 2026 FIA European Rally Championship behind the wheel of the Rally4 HF.

In addition, Lancia introduced the Ypsilon HF Racing—an entry-level motorsport machine built for new drivers eager to enter the world of rally. With 145 horsepower, 240 Newton-meters of torque, a 3-cylinder 1.2-liter turbocharged engine, and a 6-speed manual transmission, it is engineered to deliver performance without breaking the bank. Priced at €38,900 excluding VAT, it is designed to democratize motorsport while meeting FIA safety standards.

In a nod to its premium Italian craftsmanship, Lancia also collaborated with Swiss watchmaker Eberhard & Co. to launch a limited-edition watch. With just 120 pieces per dial version, the timepiece symbolizes both performance and style, down to the smallest detail.

This is not just a relaunch. It is a return to form. The spirit of the red elephant is alive and charging forward. Lancia is inviting a new generation of enthusiasts to grab the wheel, feel the power, and become part of its rebirth.