Kimera Evo38 Ignites Lancia Legacy: A Bold Italian Resurgence
by AutoExpert | 26 February, 2024
After years on ice, Lancia's recent comeback with the Peugeot-based Ypsilon was... underwhelming. But another Italian company, Kimera Automobili, has a much cooler idea for reviving the brand's spirit. Enter the new Evo38 – a modern take on the Lancia 038, the car that should have been!
Let's rewind a bit. The 038 started out as a planned upgrade to the 037, the last rear-wheel-drive Lancia to win the WRC championship back in 1983. They boosted power and even added all-wheel drive to try and keep up with the Audi S1.
But history took a turn – the 038 never saw the light of day, and the Delta S4 went on to racing fame.
Now, Kimera's bringing the story back on track. The Evo38 is a follow-up to their 2021 Evo37, but with a bigger turbo, all-wheel drive, and an extra 100 horsepower! That means nearly 600 hp blasting to both axles through a six-speed manual.
Weighing in around the same as an Alpine A110S or a Mazda MX-5, this thing should be seriously quick. There's a revised suspension too, with fancy new electric shock absorbers. And while the Evo37 used a 2.1-liter engine built under the watchful eye of Lancia legend Claudio Lombardi, rumors are swirling about a new electrified gearbox for the Evo38.
Get ready for its big debut at the 2024 Geneva Motor Show next week!
Price-wise? Well, the Evo37 went for around $520,000, so don't expect this to be cheap.
Honestly, a rally-inspired car from Lancia would've been awesome for their revival. But hey, at least the Ypsilon shares parts with existing Peugeots and Opels, right? Companies like Kimera know there's a hunger for the real Lancia spirit, and they're not afraid to step up.
Even more exciting, Kimera's website has a countdown for a THIRD model – the K-39. Mark your calendars for June 22, 2024!