03.10.2004 The new Lancia Musa is at present headlining Lancia's sophisticated, upmarket stand at the Paris International Motor Show

The new Lancia Musa is at present headlining Lancia's sophisticated, upmarket stand at the Paris International Motor Show.

Two Musas, both powered by the 1.3-litre 16v Multijet power unit, have taken pride of place. One is mounted right in the centre of the collection on a large revolving turntable, while the second example is available for detailed, close-up examination.

As usual, Lancia's stand seeks to be the embodiment of Italian style and culture. The stand oozes with elegance through the use of only the finest of materials, while the car's display area is surrounded by designer shops and kiosks that seek to recreate any one of the many fashionable city shopping plazas.

The Musa is based around Fiat's new 'mini-MPV', the Idea. Brought to the market in record time, it adds luxury and opulence the what is in effect a new segment of vehicle. Launched earlier this year, the Musa went on sale during the summer, and the order book is already believed to be firming up.

The Musa's front and rear styling has been clearly inspired by the current Ypsilon model. While the now familiar 'family' style nose gives the front a dignified air, the new rear tailgate is highly reminiscent of the flowing rear-ends that adorned Lancia's cars in the pre-war years.

The Lancia Musa is generosity in its engineering products: high-performing engines designed for an easy, relaxing drive. Two diesel Multijet units: the 100bhp 1.9-litre unit is well-rounded and flexible, ideal under any situation, and the 70bhp 1.3 unit is ideal for driving around town when fitted with the Dolce Far Niente gearbox.

For people who cover a smaller mileage, a lively 95bhp 1.4 Fire petrol unit is available. The same generosity is evident in the broad and diverse standard equipment list: the Platino specification includes a 'GranLuce' roof, leather interiors, radio-CD and alloy wheels.

Lancia see this car as being able to cross the established boundaries. It is a small car, just under four metres in length, that punches well above its weight, offering levels of elegance and comfort that are to be found in a much larger segment car.

The high equipment levels and the widespread use luxurious materials, all add up to creating a fashionable, comfortable interior. This well thought out car should be able to pitch itself as a serious alternative to bigger, respected cars, such as the Mercedes A-Class.

by Edd Ellison