Lancia has issued the first details and images of its forthcoming rival for the five-door Audi A3, the Delta, formerly known by its Project 844 codename.
The brand states that the name is appropriate as the mathematical symbol stands for change, difference and evolution. The car itself looks very similar to the Delta HPE concept from the Paris show in September 2006.
Designed by the Lancia Style Centre, the new Delta is 4.5 metres long, 1.8 metres wide and 1.5 metres high. The wheelbase, at 2.7 metres, is unusually long for the class and should ensure a roomy rear compartment, particularly as there is a sliding rear seat with a reclining squab. This facility also enlarges the boot when the seat is pushed forwards.
The brand notes that a Bose Hi-Fi radio incorporating a CD player and MP3 file reader with steering-wheel mounted controls, the Blue&Me system developed with Microsoft, also available in a NAV version, and a brand new satellite navigation system developed with Magneti Marelli will be standard or optional, depending on the market.
 Although mechanical specifics are yet to be revealed, Lancia notes that the engine line-up will be an all-turbo affair, with outputs of “120bhp up to 200bhp, and a choice of six-speed transmissions – manual, robotised and automatic”, its statement says. Moreover, the diesel(s) “anticipate” the limits of Euro 5. All units will be sourced from Fiat Powertrain Technologies.
The new Delta, to be launched in June, is a strategic part of Lancia’s obligation to lift its global sales to the 300,000upa level that Fiat Group continues to insist upon. In 2007, the division built 118,553 cars and minivans, down from 123,041 in the previous year. Launches in right-hand drive markets are also planned for this new, Fiat Bravo-based model.
The range should eventually include a wide-track Evolution derivative that draws on the company’s rally heritage, sources state. Lancia is believed to be aiming for build of 60,000 Deltas in 2008, of which 25,000 should be exported. It is said that the break-even point will be 45,000/annum, with build of 70,000-80,000 planned for 2009.
Like the Fiats Bravo and Linea, the Delta uses the C-Frame platform from the former Fiat Stilo but has a 100mm longer wheelbase than these two cars.
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