Is the rally racing saving Lancia?
- Published on 24/12/2025 11:38
A few years ago, not to say a few months ago, people weren’t giving much for Lancia’s future.
Stellantis’ attempts to revive Lancia with Americanized minivans or luxury models had ended in disappointing failures, casting doubt on its future. But today, Lancia seems to have found its path: rallying.
The brand’s return to competition is not ostentatious, but strategic. With the Ypsilon Rally4 HF, Lancia is focusing on customer competition. Equipped with a three-cylinder 1.2 Turbo engine producing 212 horsepower and a five-speed manual gearbox with a limited-slip mechanical differential, this front-wheel drive appeals to young drivers looking to make a name for themselves. The success of the Trofeo Lancia in Italy, with over 100 cars sold and 40 teams participating, proves that this approach works. Even in France, the Ypsilon Rally4 HF is already performing well in the Coupe de France and the Stellantis Motorsport Rally Cup.
If it wins in rally, it must be good
Riding on this momentum, Lancia has developed the Ypsilon HF electric, a high-performance road version. Equipped with a 100% electric engine producing 280 horsepower, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, with a range of about 370 km and fast charging offering 100 km of range in just 10 minutes. Inspired by racing, it features 355 mm Alcon brakes, a Torsen limited-slip differential, and level 2 driving aids. The Lancia HF electric demonstrates that competition can become a technological laboratory and a showcase to attract the general public.
Thus, rallying is not just a return to Lancia’s sporting essence marked by the Stratos, Beta, and Delta—models that have marked history. It also becomes a source of revenue and image. The Italian brand illustrates a dual genius: reviving its legend and preparing for the future in a context where electric and performance go hand in hand.
You might be interestedin this article:
This revival is set to materialize in January 2026 with Lancia’s return to the Monte-Carlo Rally through the Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale. This model, central to the HF program, aims for more than just participation: with the new WRC 2027 regulations, where Rally2 will share the top category with WRC, Lancia could legitimately aim for victory in the overall standings as early as 2027. Balancing heritage and modernity, rallying seems to be truly saving the Italian brand.
ALSO READ: Electric debut for the Alpine A290 Rallye
This page is translated from the original post "Est-ce que le rallye est en train de sauver Lancia ?" in French.
We also suggestthese articles:
Also read
