Chrysler Delta - Chrysler’s Italian Peep Show

Chrysler Delta - Chrysler’s Italian Peep Show

Chrysler Delta - Chrysler’s Italian Peep Show

Since Fiat took control of Chrysler last summer, auto enthusiasts have been waiting for clues to how the Italian automaker will integrate the brash American with its global plans. The company provided a peep show at the Detroit auto show by placing a new grille and updated Chrysler logo on the Lancia Delta.

In the Lancia tradition, styling is functional, yet elegant. From a pointed nose with said chrome grille, the body flows back into a sleek wagon profile. Large alloy wheels, black roof, and body surfacing give it an expensive appearance.

The interior is clearly Italian with upscale leather seats, thick leather on the steering wheel, attention to detail, silver finishes, and a cooled center armrest. The car is roomier inside than a similarly sized compact like the PT Cruiser. If Ferrari were to design a compact car interior, the Lancia Delta’s wouldn’t be far off. Six airbags, advanced electronic stability control, sliding folding rear seat, heated outside mirrors, and CD/MP3-player with steering wheel controls set standards in the compact class.

In Europe, Lancia offers a range of engines from 1.2 to 2.0 litres, with turbo and diesel options, that produce 120 to 165 horsepower. Using Fiat’s Multiair technology, they are some of the most fuel-efficient powerplants offered anywhere in the world and would be more than competitive in the U.S.

Chrysler placed the Delta on its stand at the North American International Auto Show without any explanation – it was just there, rotating with sexy models fawning over it. So, what’s the deal? According to Automotive News, the car is Chrysler/Lancia CEO Olivier Francois’ personal ride. As a trial balloon, he ordered the design staff to modify the car to see what it would look like as a Chrysler.

If the Fiat/Chrysler partnership is to work, the American part will have to make full use of compact and mid-size cars from the Italian part. You can judge for yourself, but I don’t think the Delta is a bad start. Upscale Italian models could be just what Chrysler needs to set itself apart. I’m sure there’s much more to come.