The Lancia Lybra 2.0L 20V is a 1,998 cc, inline‑five petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2005. It featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 20-valve head and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake camshaft, delivering 155 PS. This engine, sourced from the Fiat Group's Pratola Serra family, offered a blend of refinement and performance for the executive Lybra sedan and wagon.
Fitted to the Lancia Lybra 2.0 20V and 2.0 20V Turbodiesel (petrol variant) across sedan and station wagon body styles, the engine was engineered for smooth, linear power delivery and quiet operation. Emissions compliance was met through sequential fuel injection and a catalytic converter, achieving Euro 3 standards for its production period.
One documented engineering characteristic is the susceptibility of the plastic intake manifold to cracking, noted in Lancia service documentation. This, often linked to thermal cycling and material fatigue, could lead to vacuum leaks and running issues. The engine design remained largely consistent throughout its production run, with no major revisions affecting core architecture.

Production years 1999–2005 meet Euro 3 standards for petrol engines (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/LAN99).
The Lancia Lybra 2.0L 20V is a 1,998 cc inline‑five petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and wagons (1999-2005). It combines a DOHC 20-valve head with variable valve timing to deliver smooth, broad power. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, DOHC, 20-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 155 PS (114 kW) | |
| Torque | 197 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPI sequential injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Toothed belt-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40 (Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | Not Available |
The inline-five layout provides a unique, smooth power delivery but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic interference engine failure. Using the specified SAE 5W-40 synthetic oil is critical for protecting the VVT system and engine internals. The plastic intake manifold is a known failure point; inspection for cracks is advised during major services. Regular replacement of the spark plugs and ignition coils ensures optimal performance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-40 synthetic oil specification (Lancia Owner's Manual). ACEA A3/B3 or equivalent is suitable.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards for petrol engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/LAN99).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (Lancia Performance Data 2001).
Lancia Workshop Manual (Lybra)
Lancia Parts Catalogue (2000)
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/LAN99)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Lancia Lybra 2.0L 20V was used exclusively across Lancia's Lybra platform with transverse, front-mounted installation. This engine received no major model-specific adaptations or facelift revisions affecting core interchangeability during its production run. All technical data is consistent across sedan and station wagon variants.
Locate the engine number stamped on the flat boss on the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Lancia Workshop Manual). The number typically starts with '937' for the 2.0L 20V variants. Visually, the transverse inline-five engine with its five individual ignition coils and plastic intake manifold is distinctive. Differentiate from the 1.8L 16V by displacement and the 2.4L 20V by its larger size. Engine blocks and major components are generally interchangeable across Lybra 2.0 20V models.
The Lybra 2.0L 20V's primary reliability risk is intake manifold cracking, with elevated incidence in high-mileage examples. Lancia service advisories from the era highlight this as a common service item, while owner club data suggests it's the most frequent cause of running issues. Infrequent maintenance and use of incorrect oil viscosity can accelerate wear, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1999-2005) and Lancia Lybra Owner's Club failure statistics (compiled 2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA LYBRA-2-0L-20V.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with LANCIA or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
LANCIA Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialLANCIA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.