In a market dominated by the Golf and Focus, the styling of the Chrysler Delta is definitely distinctive but is this enough to attract buyers?
What is it?
Lancia is a name associated with Italian style and the Chrysler Delta is essentially a rebadged version of the Lancia Delta that is sold in the rest of Europe.
Who is it aimed at?
This is a car for those who want to stand out from the crowd but need a spacious interior.
Styling?
The Delta is without doubt a very stylish car and one that’s gets very favourable comments. The bold headlights, contoured grille and the large imposing front grille give the Delta real presence and make it look very different from anything else on the road.
Under the Bonnet?
Power in the test car was provided by the 2.0 MultiJet diesel engine. This is the most powerful engine (165bhp and 360Nm of torque) in the Delta range and is available exclusively on the top of the range Delta Limited.
What’s it like Inside?
Inside the Delta is very sophisticated which impressive detailing throughout. The door handles and main controls are all finished in chrome and the dashboard is finished in a soft faux leather. It is also longer and wider than most family hatchbacks so there is impressive cabin space.
On the Road?
The Delta is a lively performer with lots of pulling power and the six-speed manual gearbox is smooth and slick. Steering is good, although a tad light, but the suspension never feels sophisticated enough to deal with uneven surfaces and the result is a lot of noise and vibration in the cabin.
And Safety?
The Delta has a five star EuroNCAP rating and has six airbags fitted as standard (front, window and curtain bags on both sides) and five three-point safety belts.
What about fuel economy?
Economy is good and it returns 5.1 litres per 100km (55mpg) on a combined cycle. The CO2 emissions of 139 g/km put it into Band B so the annual motor tax bill is €225.
Okay so the verdict?
The Delta is roomy and distinctively stylish. But price is a serious consideration. The 2.0 litre diesel, at €30,995, is more expensive than either an equivalent engine in the Ford Focus, VW Golf or Opel Astra. In addition the Focus and Golf drive better, the Golf and Astra both offer more space when the seats are down and Alfa’s Giulietta is better looking so while the Delta will appeal, it is hard to see buyers being lured in any great numbers.
Why you’ll buy one? Distinctive styling; roomy interior; economical
Why you won’t? Distinctive styling; driving dynamics; price
Last Word: While it injects some serious style into the school run it is let down by the driving dynamics.
Competitors: Alfa Giulietta, Ford Focus, Opel Astra, VW Golf
Chrysler Delta LIMITED 2.0 JTDM
Factfile
Engine: 1,956cc putting out 121kW @ 4,000rpm and 350Nm of torque
Max speed 0-100km/h: 214km/h, 8.3 seconds
Emissions (motor tax) 135g/km
Starting price: €22,895
Model price range €22,895 – €30,995 (Test Car €30,995)
No of Doors: 5
Euro NCAP: 5 stars
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy: 5.1 litres per 100km combined cycle
Boot Capacity Seats up (seats down): 380 litres (1190 litres)
Car Seats: Isofix points for two car seats, both are easy to fit child seats in.
Length: 4520mm
Width: 1797mm
Height: 1497mm
Wheelbase: 2700mm
9th May, 2012