Lancia, once one of Italy’s most respected car brands, is now facing one of the toughest periods in its long history. In 2025, the automaker sold fewer than 12,000 vehicles, marking its weakest performance in decades.
To understand how serious this decline is, it helps to look back. In 1990, Lancia was delivering around 300,000 cars per year. Today, that number has fallen dramatically, showing just how far the brand has slipped from its former glory.
From Iconic Brand to One-Car Lineup
Much of Lancia’s decline happened during the years it was part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). The situation became even clearer after FCA merged with PSA Group to form Stellantis.
One major reason for the poor sales is simple: Lancia currently sells only one model.
That car is the Lancia Ypsilon, a small hatchback in the subcompact category. Buyers can choose between:
- A three-cylinder turbo petrol engine, or
- A fully electric front-mounted motor
The Ypsilon shares its basic platform with cars like the Opel Corsa and Peugeot 208. While it is practical, many buyers feel it lacks strong design appeal. On top of that, its high pricing makes it harder to compete, especially when Stellantis brands are often criticized for questionable reliability and build quality.
Official Numbers Tell a Grim Story
According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), Lancia recorded 11,747 vehicle registrations in 2025. That number also includes registrations for Chrysler, which makes the situation even more unusual.
Chrysler officially left most European markets years ago, completing its exit between 2011 and 2017, with the UK and Ireland being the last countries where it was sold.
A separate study from Dataforce, cited by Automotive News Europe, revealed that only 75 Chrysler vehicles were sold in Europe last year:
- 72 Pacifica minivans
- 3 units of the 300C sedan
Yes, just three sedans.
The Chrysler 300C, which shared its platform with the Dodge Charger, was discontinued in December 2023 after the 2023 model year. Many fans still remember it as the car that never received the high-performance Hellcat engine it deserved.
Lancia’s Future: Hope or Risk?
Dataforce also reported 11,719 registrations for Lancia alone, a number that closely matches ACEA’s data. These figures raise a serious question: Can Lancia survive the rest of the decade?
The most realistic answer for now is “probably”, but not without risk.
Lancia plans to launch new models to rebuild its image and sales:
- Lancia Gamma, arriving in 2026
- A revived Delta, expected before the end of the decade
What to Expect from the New Lancia Gamma
The upcoming Gamma will be Lancia’s new flagship model. It will feature a fastback-style crossover design and will be built on Stellantis’ STLA Medium platform at the Melfi factory in Italy.
Expected specifications include:
- Length of around 4.7 meters (185 inches)
- Multiple powertrain options:
- Fully electric versions
- Turbocharged engines with electric assistance (hybrid setup)
A high-performance version called Gamma HF is scheduled for 2027. See more Photos
The Delta Returns, but Fully Electric
In 2028, Lancia plans to bring back one of its most legendary names: Delta.
The new Delta is expected to:
- Be a compact car measuring about 4.4 meters (173 inches)
- Use only electric powertrains
- Revive the famous HF Integrale badge
According to early reports, the electric Delta HF Integrale could feature:
- A dual-motor setup
- More than 400 horsepower
While this sounds exciting for enthusiasts, it may also be a major gamble. High-performance electric cars are expensive, and Lancia’s current sales numbers suggest a very limited customer base.
A Brand at a Crossroads
Lancia plans to become fully electric by 2030, but this strategy comes with serious risks. With weak brand recognition outside Italy and years of declining sales, the road ahead will not be easy.
For longtime fans, the future is uncertain. New models bring hope, but also concern that Lancia’s rich history may not be enough to secure its survival in today’s competitive market.
Only time will tell whether Lancia’s comeback plans can save one of Italy’s most historic car brands.
FAQs
Why is this car brand selling so few cars now?
Sales are low because the company sells only one model, prices are high, and many buyers choose other brands with more options and better value.
What caused the brand to lose popularity?
Over the years, fewer new models were released, marketing was weak, and competitors offered newer and better cars at similar prices.
Does selling only one car affect sales?
Yes. When a brand sells only one model, buyers who want SUVs, sedans, or sports cars look elsewhere.
Is the current model worth buying?
It depends. It is good for city driving and fuel efficiency, but many people feel it is overpriced compared to similar cars.
Why do people complain about reliability?
Some buyers report quality issues, and the parent company does not have the best reputation for long-term reliability.
Are new models coming soon?
Yes. New vehicles are planned, including a larger flagship model and a revived compact car, later in the decade.
Will future cars be electric?
Yes. The brand plans to move fully to electric vehicles by 2030, with no new gas-only cars planned after that.
What is the biggest risk for the brand’s future?
The biggest risk is low demand. If people do not buy the new models, the brand may struggle to survive.
Is this brand still popular in Europe?
It is mostly popular in Italy. In other European countries, sales are very limited.
Can this brand make a comeback?
A comeback is possible, but only if new cars are priced well, reliable, and appealing to younger buyers.
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