The Chrysler Ypsilon is a funny-looking thing that won’t be to everyone’s tastes. Still, the rebadged Lancia is an alternative and supposedly premium option in the saturated supermini market, targeted mostly at those wanting an urban runaround.

There’s a 1.2-litre 69hp petrol emitting 115g/km, but the most popular choice will be between a 1.3-litre 95hp diesel and a 0.9-litre 85hp petrol, both with 99g/km CO2.

The interior isn’t as premium as the brand would have us believe, but it’s not bad and notably different with a central instrument panel rather than one behind the steering wheel. The middle of three trims, SE, has a decent amount of kit with aircon, a leather steering wheel and 15-inch alloy wheels.

The Ypsilon performs well in town with a high driving position, but push it and you’ll find a lack of grip and body control as well as a fiddlesome gearstick.

Up against Volkswagen‘s equivalent Polo, a 1.2 TDI 65hp Match, the Ypsilon doesn’t fare badly. The Polo wins on residual values at 38% against 36% but loses on emissions at 102g/km. Whole-life costs for the Polo are 33.8p per mile versus the Chrysler’s 34.6ppm – not a great deal of difference if you fancy a leftfield alternative.

Chrysler Ypsilon 1.3 Multijet 95hp SE 5sp
P11D price £14,140
Model price range £10,695-£15,695
Fuel consumption 74.3mpg
CO2 (tax) 99g/km/(13%)
BIK 20/40% per month £31/£61
Engine size/power 1248cc/95hp
Top speed/0-62mph 114mph/11.0secs
On sale September 2011
Score 7/10
Verdict A credible if not
outstanding city
runaround