We say The Ypsilon is a rebadged Fiat in a sleeker bodyshell. Hard to recommend.Performance There are three engines to choose from, starting with a weak 1.2-litre petrol engine with just 68bhp, this is the only engine you can get on the starting ‘S’ trim Ypsilon. On higher end models you can alternatively get a 0.9-litre turbocharged TwinAir petrol unit with 83bhp or best of all a 1.3-litre diesel with 93bhp. The diesel can get the Chrysler from 0-60mph in 11 seconds and gives it a top speed of 114mph.Emissions The Ypsilon has very good ‘green’ credentials. Both the 1.3-litre diesel and the 0.9-litre TwinAir petrol will emit less then 100g/km in CO2 and both do above 66mpg (the diesel engine does 74mpg). The 1.2-litre petrol does very respectable in this regard as well, recording 57mpg and it emits just 115g/km.Driving The car is suited well for city driving but is generally sluggish through the twists and corners even when compared to a lot of other superminis. There’s also quite a bit of body roll through the corners.Feel The suspension on the Ypsilon is very stiff which means the ride can get rough pretty easily on anything other than a perfectly smooth road. The steering meanwhile is light but lacks feedback.Space The Ypsilon is roomy at the front but space is restricted at the back in terms of headroom and shoulder-room. There are also some storage compartments around the cabin but they don’t offer much space. The boot however can store 245 litres worth of luggage with the rear seats up, not bad at all for a supermini.Equipment The starting ‘S’ model has little kit, you’ll find a lot more on the mid-range SE trim which includes alloy wheels, air conditioning and heated mirrors. The range-topping Limited model adds leather seats, rear electric windows and climate control.Price £10,695 is the starting price for the Chrysler Ypsilon, while the most expensive specification is listed at £15,695.Quality The interior seems well constructed but it’s filled with cheap looking plastics and the soft-touch materials are nothing special. Driving the Ypsilon is a very noisy experience as well, none of the engines seem quiet and wind and road noise intrudes easily.Safety All models get anti-lock brakes and at least four airbags (models other then the starting trim have six). The commonly found electronic stability programme however is only available with the automatic gearbox and isn’t even an option on the starting ‘S’ trim.Pros High fuel economy and low emissions across the range, the Chrysler Ypsilon has decent ‘green’ credentials and uses proven engines.Cons The drive is noisy, slow and less fun and assured compared to rival superminis. The driving position is also bad, the interior is disappointing and the range-topping specifications are pricey.Alternatives Fiat 500, Ford Ka, VW Polo
