Fiat Chrysler: Lancia Delta to the US?

posted: Monday 12 October 2009 by Alison in: Fiat Hatchbacks Saloons Chrysler

The first step in the Lancia end of the Fiat-Chrysler bargain could be a re-badging operation for the Lancia Delta, to position it below the Sebring, without having to develop a totally new model. An American version of the Delta could therefore appear, with a Chrysler badge, which would be the best option for a Chrysler relaunch.

The Lancia Delta could meet the taste of the US motoring public, both in terms of luxury style and size. At 450 centimetres long, it is a direct competitor to the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3 Sportback. The refined interior would confirm the premium brand status that Chrysler is hoping to achieve. This is supported by a spot-on engine range, including the 1.8Di turbo with 200 hp, and the 1.9-litre Multijet twin-turbo with 190 hp.

The Lancia Delta is the also the first totally new vehicle that debuted under the leadership of Olivier Francois, recently nominated as Chrysler brand manager. The possibility of Delta becoming the first Chrysler model under new Fiat management would seem the most likely option.