Watch Out, Alfa: Lancia Launches Ypsilon Monogram Edition In Italy

Earlier this year, everyone who knows a thing or two about cars was stunned to learn that Lancia outsold Alfa Romeo in the European Union in the first six months of 2019.

Yes, a brand reduced to a single market (Italy) and a single eight-year-old model (Ypsilon) sold more units in Europe than the Alfa Romeo brand in which parent company FCA poured massive amounts of money to turn it into a credible rival for Germany’s big three premium carmakers.

Now, we don’t know whether Lancia will end the 2019 calendar year ahead of Alfa Romeo in Europe or not, but the maker of the Giulia and Stelvio should be worried. The reason (and we’re not even joking) is that Lancia has launched a new Ypsilon special edition model called Monogram, which should help further boost sales in Italy.

Also read: Get A Look Inside At FCA’s Incredible New Alfa Romeo, Fiat And Lancia Heritage Museum

The umpteenth special edition Lancia Ypsilon takes its name from the letter “Y” which has been turned into a monogram featured everywhere on the car. Offered in an exclusive color combination of light gold and black, the Ypsilon Monogram introduces the letter “Y” as a graphic sign representing the car’s signature. The monogram can be seen on the alloy wheel centers, B-pillars, and rear screen, as well as on the headrests.

Other unique features include the A-pillars which gradually change color from black to light gold as they join the bonnet, plus gloss black trim – including inserts on the upper and lower grilles, door handles, alloys, mirror caps, and rear bumper.

Inside, the Ypsilon Monogram gets new fabric upholstery with light gold leather accents and stitching. The special edition model also brings upgraded standard equipment including a DAB audio system, Uconnect infotainment system with 5-inch touchscreen, air conditioning, leather steering wheel, power-adjustable side mirrors, rear parking sensors, and fog lights.

The engine lineup stays the same and includes a naturally aspirated 1.2-liter Fire Evo II gasoline engine rated at 69 PS (68 HP) and available in a bi-fuel setup (gasoline and LPG), as well as an 80 PS (79 HP) 0.9-liter TwinAir turbocharged two-cylinder engine running on CNG (compressed natural gas) and gasoline.