All-new Chrysler Ypsilon Unveiled

Chrysler's first ever supermini has been unveiled at an excusive gathering of Irish and UK journalists at the Museo dell' Automobile in Turin. Based on the all-new Lancia Ypsilon, one of the stars of the Geneva Motor Show in March, this is the first time the new model has been seen with its distinctive Chrysler identity. The unveiling also sees the debut of Chrysler's new emblem which is symbolically bolder yet more elegant than the logo it replaces.

If all that wasn't enough, the event also coincides with Chrysler's announcement that it has completed its refinancing and has repaid its U.S. and Canadian government loans in full, six years ahead of schedule, making for a truly momentous occasion for the iconic Chrysler brand.

While the all-new Ypsilon is the fourth generation model in left-hand drive European markets, this will be the first time the successful "small flagship" has been sold in right-hand drive. However, because this is also the first Ypsilon with five doors, it presents a new opportunity for other markets across Europe too. As a consequence, sales are predicted to increase from a peak of 86,000 units for the current car to more than 122,000 units in the new car's first full year of production.

Aimed at those seeking luxury, elegance, quality and prestige in a compact, practical and environmentally-conscious package, the new Chrysler Ypsilon is a unique concept designed to be in tune with the mood of today's European car buyers. It eschews crass ostentation in favour of downsized style and sophistication but, in keeping with its "small flagship" status, it is packed with the kinds of technologies normally reserved for larger and more expensive vehicles, including next-generation Park Magic; Blue&Me-TomTom LIVE; LED tail-lamps and a full-length sunroof. It is also powered by some of the most advanced engines in Fiat Group Automobiles' portfolio, including the revolutionary new TwinAir engine which was recently voted "International Engine of the Year 2011" by a jury of 76 experts from all around the world.

With its hidden rear door handles and distinctive coupé-like shape, the new Chrysler Ypsilon has the appearance of a car much larger and sleeker than its dimensions would suggest (L-384cm, W-167cm, H-152cm, WB-239cm). This is also the case inside the Ypsilon - despite its compact footprint it is amongst the class leaders in terms of passenger room and boot space, while the quality and style of the cabin materials, upholsteries and instruments ensure it exudes a genuinely upmarket feel unmatched in the supermini class.

This sophistication also extends to the all-new chassis which has been strengthened to improve its dynamic performance and lightened to assist in keeping the Ypsilon's kerb weight as low as 965kg. The MacPherson strut front suspension, for example, uses a monocoque lower arm made from ultra-high strength material, the first of its kind in Europe, while new "split" shock absorber mounts help disperse suspension loads through two different routes to drastically reduce noise, vibration and harshness. The front anti-roll bar has been completely redesigned so that it is now connected to the shock absorbers rather than the control arms, improving anti-roll performance while saving weight, while the rear suspension used a closed-section torsion beam and larger bushes to ensure class-leading quietness and ride quality, in keeping with the Ypsilon's "small flagship" characteristics.

Three engines will power the new Chrysler Ypsilon in Ireland. Lining up alongside the 85hp, 875cc, two-cylinder TwinAir unit is the entry-level 69hp 1.2-litre petrol engine and the 95hp 1.3 MultiJet II turbo diesel engine. Each Ypsilon powerplant is remarkably frugal and eco-friendly, aided by the Start&Stop system; Gear Shift Indicator and low rolling-resistance tyres fitted to all models. As a result, every Ypsilon sold in Ireland will fall comfortably into Tax/VRT Band A and this, in turn, will help keep its price as competitive as possible, making it the first car in Ireland to offer truly attainable luxury.

The Chrysler Ypsilon will be launched with three trim levels, corresponding to the Argento, Oro, and Platino model designations in LHD markets, although the nomenclature and exact equipment specifications of the Irish model designations have yet to be finalised. It is likely, however, that all will have electric windows, remote central locking and a height adjustable drivers seat, with air conditioning, electric mirrors and a leather steering wheel as standard in the mid-range model and alloy wheels, fog lights and rear electric windows as standard in the top version.

In terms of safety, the Ypsilon is expected (subject to confirmation) to offer ESP stability control with Hill-Holder as standard, while six airbags, LED tail-lamps and bi-xenon headlamps are amongst the other safety features. Special attention has also been paid to occupant and pedestrian protection which should result in a favourable Euro NCAP rating when the car is eventually tested.

With 16 different paint finishes (four of which are two-tone), three interior trim levels, six different upholstery trims and three types of alloy wheels available, there are a total of 600 different variants of the Chrysler Ypsilon to choose from, giving customers the freedom to specify the exact vehicle that best suits their lifestyle and needs. The all-new Chrylser Ypsilon goes on sale in October 2011 and while prices and trim levels have yet to be finalised the range should start at well below €13,000.