Segment:
Compact Executive / Small Family Car (often categorized as a premium offering within its segment).
Competitors:
Key competitors included the Alfa Romeo 156, Volkswagen Passat, Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class of the era.
Styling:
Distinctive styling penned by Ercole Spada, known for its elegant and somewhat retro design, setting it apart from more angular contemporaries.
Interior:
Luxurious interior appointments, often featuring high-quality materials, innovative dashboard layout (e.g., central instrument binnacle), and comfortable seating.
Variants:
Available as a sedan and a wagon (Sportwagon), offering practicality and versatility.
Language:
English (implied by product description, assumes standard manual language)
Format:
Digital (PDF, downloadable)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual / Service Manual Hybrid (focus on technical details, maintenance, and repair)
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific edition, typically 300-500 pages for comprehensive coverage.
Powertrain:
Engine specifications, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting.
Chassis:
Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS).
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting system, instrument cluster, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams (basic).
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seating, climate control system, power accessories (windows, locks).
Safety Systems:
Airbag system operation, seat belt maintenance, basic safety feature explanations.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), fluid specifications, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Identification of common issues, basic diagnostic steps, symptom-to-cause correlation.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment; assembly and disassembly procedures.
Diagnostics:
Guidance on understanding dashboard warning lights, basic diagnostic codes (where applicable).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to significant repairs. Includes technical details, diagrams, and equipment explanations.
Engine Options:
Inline-4 Petrol (1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L), V6 Petrol (2.0L, 3.0L), Inline-4 Diesel (1.9 JTD), V5 Diesel (2.4 JTD).
Example Engine 1.8 Twinsprung:
1.8L 16V Twin Spark (1747 cc), ~130 PS (96 kW; 128 hp) @ 6300 rpm, ~163 Nm (120 lb-ft) @ 4300 rpm.
Example Engine 2.4 Jtd:
2.4L 10V JTD (2387 cc), ~134-150 PS (99-110 kW; 132-148 hp), ~300-330 Nm (221-243 lb-ft) torque.
0-60 Mph Estimate:
Varies by engine, typically 8-11 seconds for petrol variants.
Fuel Injection:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for petrol engines, Common Rail Direct Injection (JTD) for diesel engines.
Euroncap Rating:
Early Euro NCAP tests generally awarded the Lybra a 3-star rating for occupant protection.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models.
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) available on some later or higher-spec models.
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger standard; side airbags often optional or standard on higher trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters.
Audio System:
Factory-fitted audio systems with radio, CD player (optional), and speaker configurations. Some models may have integrated navigation options.
Climate Control Features:
Automatic climate control (dual-zone optional) was a key feature, offering comfort and convenience.
Cruise Control:
Cruise control was available as an option on many models.
Phone Integration:
Some models offered integrated Bluetooth phone connectivity or provision for a hands-free system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months for petrol engines, 20,000 km (12,400 miles) or 12 months for diesel engines (check manual for specific intervals).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For Twin Spark engines, timing belt replacement is critical and typically recommended every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 4-5 years due to known issues with tensioners and wear.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SJ or higher, ACEA A3/B3. Viscosity grades like 10W-40 or 5W-40 are common, depending on climate. (Consult manual for exact spec).
Coolant Spec:
Paraflu UP or equivalent OAT (Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Total system capacity approximately 6.5-7.0 liters.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 or DOT 3 (check manual). Fluid should be replaced every 2-3 years.
Twin Spark Engine:
Timing belt issues, wear on the cylinder head in high-mileage engines, potential issues with the electronic control unit (ECU).
Electrical Systems:
Can experience intermittent electrical gremlins, particularly with window regulators, central locking, and dashboard warning lights.
Suspension And Steering:
Worn suspension bushings and ball joints can lead to noise and imprecise handling, especially in higher mileage vehicles.
Climate Control:
Climate control system issues, including blower motor failures or refrigerant leaks, can occur.
Lancia Philosophy:
Lancia has a long history of producing technically advanced, luxurious, and stylish vehicles with a focus on comfort and driving dynamics.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the Fiat Tipo platform, which it shared with models like the Fiat Bravo/Brava and Alfa Romeo 155. This gave it a robust and proven mechanical base.
Manufacturing Location:
Produced at the Fiat Mirafiori plant in Turin, Italy.
Sales Performance:
The Lybra was not a major sales success globally, often overshadowed by its German rivals, but it found a loyal following for its unique character and comfort.
