Lancia started to increase its image on the market and targeted the premium segment when it introduced the Flavia Sedan in 1960.
While the coupe version of the Flavia received much attention from enthusiasts, the Flavia Sedan (or Berlina) was more often seen in rich people's garages. It was built on a new platform generation with a front-wheel-drive and front engine arrangement. Its styling was not the most successful in the brand's history, but its quality was at its peak.
Lancia made a clear statement with the Flavia. With its modern-looking bodywork, with flush fenders and door panels and imposing front fascia, it imposed respect on the road. The big, high-mounted, four round headlights and the chromed, shield-shaped grille represented a big step forward in the brand's design. A set of turn-signals was installed on the front fenders, which was not very common. In contrast with the imposing front, the taillights were small.
The interior featured an unusual styling with a scoped dashboard in front of the passenger and an instrument cluster as a separate unit. Next to the driver, on the door's side, there was a half-round button panel. The gearshift was installed on the steering column. The carmakers installed three abdominal safety belts for the rear bench and an ashtray on the front seats' back.
To increase road holding, Lancia installed only boxer engines, which allowed a lower center of gravity. The car was offered with a choice of three engines, with displacement between 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter.