Chrysler Ireland has expanded its range with the arrival of the Delta and Ypsilon models. Prior to the arrival of these Italian built family cars, the Chrysler range was best known for the 300CC and Grand Voyager, and the Jeep range of off-roaders.
The Delta and Ypsilon models are born of the new Fiat-Chrysler alliance, and the Delta-a compact family car in the Focus/Golf class-and the Ypsilon are rebadged Lancia’s for the UK and Ireland markets only. On the European mainland, the Delta and Ypsilon continue as Lancia’s.
The current Delta is the third generation of a very staple Lancia product that started life five-door hatchback designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro in 1979. Delta was one of the most attractively styled cars of its class at the time and it went on to lift the 1980 European Car of the Year. More fame followed on the rally circuits, when the racing version dubbed the Delta HF Integrale, dominated world rallying with 46 victories and winning the Constructors Championship a record six times in a row from 1987 to 1992.
DESIGN
For anyone familiar with the styling of Chryslers of recent years, the Delta is going to come as something of a shock. The car’s two-tone paintwork, ornate detailing and sharply creased surfaces make it entirely unlike anything else in the class. Chrysler is targeting drivers looking for a stylish, fashionable alternative, and the Delta is sure to grab attention with its distinctive Chrysler grille, narrow tail-lights and flowing lines. And the overall impression is of a car that’s distinctive, handsome and quite contemporary, but also decidedly European-looking.
If the Delta’s appearance is somewhat avant garde, its underpinnings could hardly be more orthodox. It uses the same platform that features under the current Fiat Bravo, with one notable difference: the Delta’s wheelbase is 100mm longer than its cousin’s. In fact the Delta is one of the biggest cars in the compact class, with a length of 4520 mm, only the Skoda Octavia is longer. In addition to class-leading passenger space, boot space is variable, courtesy of sliding and tilting rear seats.
The entry-level Delta SE also boasts high levels of equipment with 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, privacy glass, steering wheel remote controls and four electric windows all as standard, while safety features include ESP, six airbags and front fog lights with cornering illumination.
The mid-level SR model adds dual-zone climate control, a rear armrest, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Blue&Me Bluetooth with voice recognition and plush leather/Alcantara upholstery which gives the interior a real plush finish. While the range-topping Limited version is fitted automatic headlamps, rear parking sensors, power folding mirrors, dual chrome exhausts and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Pricing starts at €21,995 for the 1.4 MultiAir Turbo SE, while the entry-level 1.6 MultiJet diesel SE is priced at €23,995. The 1.6 MultiJet SR is priced from €25,995 while the top-of-the-range 1.6 MultiJet “Selectronic” is €27,995 and the 2.0 MultiJet Limited is priced at €29,995.
ON THE ROAD
On the road, the Delta is thoroughly decent to drive, without having quite a Golf level of refinement or a Focus’s responsiveness. The steering is light and quick-geared, which makes it quick and fairly manoeuvrable in the urban confines. The long wheelbase give it motorway stability and a flat ride, and comfort levels are further enhanced with its low wind and mechanical noise levels. The standard six-speed gearbox is light, too, and so are the powerful brakes.
My test car was the 1.6 Multijet SR and its120 bhp engine is capable of 120 mph and a 0-100km sprint of 10.7 seconds. It feels more powerful than these figures suggest, but the revs must be kept above the two thousand mark, as the torque drops off markedly. Fuel consumption is a claimed 4.7L/100km (60.1 mpg). In my hands the Delta achieved between 6.9L/100km (41mpg) and 5.1L/100km (55mpg).Its emissions fall into band b and the annual road tax is E225, post 2012 budget.
FOR THE VET
The badge-swapped Delta is a creditable vehicle. It’s at the luxury end of the mid-car range and it’s roomy and well made. There’s leather to sit on, chrome to smudge and rubbery nubs to finger and press. The instrument panel is classy. And while the handling is not as clinical as a Focus, the Fiat-built engines is very driveable. Your best bet in terms of economy and everyday usability is the 1.6 diesel. The Delta gets five stars for safety and it has stability control. and comes with the full set of airbags.
Would you buy one instead of the omni present Focus or a Golf? Depends on how much you want to stand out from the crowd. It certainly looks unique, and it marks a very good start for Chrysler in this extremely popular and competitive market segment.