2005 Lancia Ypsilon Sport by Zagato

The 2005 Lancia Ypsilon Sport by Zagato, unveiled at the 75th Geneva Motor Show, showcased a unique blend of technological innovation and a fresh vision for the future of the Lancia brand under Fiat's management. The concept car stood out primarily for its refined exterior design, which incorporated sporty touches while maintaining the core identity of the Ypsilon model. Compared to the regular version of the car, the Ypsilon Sport had only a few aggressive and dynamic modifications, yet the changes were enough to make the car appear sportier and more dynamic.

One of the most notable updates was the aggressive front end, which featured a reworked bumper with large, low-lying air intakes, designed in the hexagonal style typical of Zagato’s signature design language. This sporty influence was further echoed in the rear of the car, where the twin exhaust pipes, also designed in a hexagonal shape, protruded from the new rear bumper. Despite these sporty enhancements, the Ypsilon Sport retained clean and simple lines, avoiding unnecessary details and ensuring a balanced and harmonious look. The "Z" logo, symbolizing the Zagato Style Centre, proudly adorned the central pillar, further reinforcing the collaboration between Lancia and the renowned Italian design house.

The modifications extended to the car’s lighting elements, with the front and rear lights being subtly tweaked, yet retaining the iconic Lancia design motifs. The wheel rims, a collaboration between the Lancia and Zagato design teams, further reflected Lancia's sporty traditions while enhancing the vehicle's aesthetic.

At the rear, the changes were in line with the car’s performance-oriented spirit. The rear door was redesigned and adapted to align with the innovative design ethos of the Ypsilon Sport. However, the most striking feature of the concept was the roof, which was almost entirely made of glass. This transparent roof smoothly flowed from the windshield all the way to the rear window, creating an open, airy feel and adding a modern touch to the vehicle's design.

The Ypsilon Sport concept, while carrying a sporty spirit and numerous stylistic enhancements, did not stray too far from the essence of the original Ypsilon. It was a car that exemplified the collaboration between Lancia and Zagato, blending performance, design, and modernity in a concept that hinted at the future direction of the brand.