‘08 Geneva: Lancia Revives Delta Nameplate for 2008

Evan McCausland — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 13:00:21 -0600

Although we've been shown countless special editions of the Ypsilon compact, Lancia actually brought a new production model - the Delta five-door - to the 2008 Geneva Motor Show.

Based off the same underpinnings used in the Fiat Stilo, the Delta makes liberal use of the wedgy design form common among current Lancias. We think the look isn't bad, but we question the use of the Delta name. The moniker previously (in Integrale forms) represented power and muscle, whereas the current car looks slender and feminine.

The front-drive Delta is available with the 1.4-liter turbocharged I-4 in either 120- or 150-horsepower versions, or a 1.6-liter turbodiesel I-4 rated at 120 horsepower. Gas motors are available with a choice of manual, semi-automatic or full-auto gearboxes, while the 1.6-liter diesel comes standard with the dual-clutch semi-auto 'box.

Lancia plans to add three additional engines after the intial launch this year, including a 165-horse 2.0-liter turbodiesel and a 1.9-liter twin-turbo diesel mill that cranks out 190 horsepower. A gasoline 1.8-liter direct-injection turbocharged I-4 is also planned, delivering a resepectable 200 ponies underhood.

Buyers should have plenty of flexibility specing' out their Delta's powertrain in any desired configuration. Regardless of their choice, they'll be getting a stylish, luxurious hatchback - even if that name may not be fitting.

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‘08 Geneva: Lancia Revives Delta Nameplate for 2008