The Legend Reborn: Lancia HF Integrale Returns to Rally Glory

By Muskan Kumari

Published on:

The Legend Reborn: Lancia HF Integrale Returns to Rally Glory

Few names in motorsport evoke the same reverence as the Lancia HF Integrale. A titan of the World Rally Championship (WRC) in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Integrale carved its legacy with blistering speed, unmistakable style, and a trophy cabinet that overflowed with accolades. Now, after decades of dormancy, the legend is back—with a modern twist. Lancia has officially announced the return of the HF Integrale nameplate, this time in the form of the Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale2.

🏁 A Heritage Worth Reviving

To understand the significance of this revival, one must revisit the golden era of rallying. Between 1987 and 1992, Lancia dominated the WRC with the Delta HF Integrale, securing six consecutive Constructors’ Championships. Driven by icons like Juha Kankkunen and Miki Biasion, the Integrale became synonymous with rally excellence. Its wide fenders, turbocharged engine, and all-wheel-drive system were not just functional—they were iconic.

Fast forward to 2025, and Lancia is tapping into this rich heritage to reignite its motorsport ambitions. The new Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale isn’t just a nostalgic nod—it’s a serious contender built to modern Rally2 specifications, ready to take on the likes of Toyota, Skoda, and Ford in the WRC2 category2.

🚗 The New Beast: Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale

At first glance, the new Integrale is a visual homage to its predecessor. The aggressive bodykit features wide fender flares, a vented hood, racing mirrors, and a prominent rear wing. The red, white, and black livery—complete with the iconic red elephant HF logo—instantly connects past and present.

Under the hood, the car complies with Rally2 regulations, meaning it packs a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed sequential gearbox. Power is sent to all four wheels via mechanical differentials, and the car weighs in at a minimum of 1,230 kg. While exact performance figures are still under wraps, similar Rally2 cars produce around 280–290 bhp, making this Ypsilon a serious machine.

🔧 Engineering Meets Emotion

What makes the return of the HF Integrale so compelling isn’t just the specs—it’s the emotional resonance. Lancia’s announcement was succinct yet powerful: “The New Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale makes its debut, bringing the legendary spirit of Lancia’s rally victories into today’s motorsport. And this is just the beginning”.

This isn’t just a car—it’s a statement. A declaration that Lancia, long absent from the top tiers of motorsport, is ready to reclaim its place. The Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale is expected to debut in the WRC2 category in 2026, with a possible appearance at the Monte Carlo Rally. While it may initially be campaigned by privateers, whispers of a factory team return in 2027—when new regulations allow Rally2 cars to compete in the top WRC class—have fans buzzing.

💰 Price of Passion

Owning a piece of rally history doesn’t come cheap. The Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale is expected to cost around €250,000 plus taxes and running costs. That’s a steep price, but for teams and collectors chasing performance and pedigree, it’s a worthy investment.

For comparison, the entry-level Ypsilon HF Racing is priced at €38,900, while the mid-tier Rally4 HF version starts at €74,500. Clearly, the Rally2 HF Integrale sits at the top of the pyramid—not just in price, but in potential.

🔮 What Lies Ahead

Beyond the Rally2 program, Lancia is reportedly working on a new Delta HF Integrale for 2026. This road-going version may be built on the Stellantis CMP platform, potentially offering both internal combustion and electric powertrains. If true, it would mark a bold step into the future while honoring the past.

Whether this new Delta will capture the magic of the original remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Lancia is no longer content to rest on its laurels. The HF Integrale name is back, and it’s ready to roar.

🏆 Final Thoughts

The return of the Lancia HF Integrale is more than a product launch—it’s a resurrection. It’s a reminder that legends never truly die; they simply wait for the right moment to rise again. With the Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale, Lancia is not just reviving a name—it’s reigniting a legacy. And for fans of rallying, performance, and passion, that’s a comeback worth celebrating.

Leave a comment