Chrysler Delta makes Fiat's all-American dream a reality Published on Friday 27 April 2012 12:57 AFTER its much-anticipated 2009 touchdown on these shores was postponed, the Lancia Delta (now in third-generation form) looked destined to prolong its 14-year exile from the UK indefinitely. One facelift, Fiat's buyout of Chrysler and a realistic marketing budget later, it's finally back as a keenly-priced, lavishly appointed "premium" Chrysler hatchback with the Ford Focus firmly in its sights. With Alfa Romeo looking after the Fiat Group's sporty aspirations, the newly re-badged and grilled third generation Delta that joined the Ypsilon supermini in Chrysler showrooms at the beginning of September is a somewhat more savvy, family-flavoured proposition with a notably spacious five-door body sitting on a stretched Fiat Bravo platform. Fiat's hope is that with a combination of aggressive pricing and executive class sophistication and luxury it can, once again, capture the heads, hearts and wallets of British buyers. It's Taken 14 Years. But Is The Drive Worth The Wait? Naturally, the Delta pulls together a powertrain and technology package cherry-picked from the Fiat Group's most modern offerings. The four-strong UK engine line-up comprises two 1.4-litre petrol units and 1.6 and 1.9-litre diesels. All are recent designs and commendably efficient, but the standout units are the 140bhp 1.4-litre MultiAir petrol and the 165bhp second generation 2.0-litre MultiJet diesel. All the engines are teamed with a six-speed manual gearbox with a semi-automatic option for the 1.6 SE MultiJet diesel. So what can we expect from behind the wheel? Well, this Delta focuses on luxury and space, rather in the same way that the Ford Focus has become a bit more "executive" and a little less exciting for the driver. Ride comfort is helped by dual-mode electronic dampers with a "Sport" setting, but don't ask too much from the handling which will be safe and user-friendly but unlikely to be challenging for class honours. In addition to Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and the Anti-Slip Regulation traction control, the Delta gets Linearisation Torque Feedback (LTF), Torque Transfer Control (TTC) and Drive Steering Torque (DST) - all designed to keep the Delta on the road when pressing on. Automatic parking - the car tells you if a gap is suitable then takes care of the steering as you reverse into it - is an optional extra. i want a car that is as good looking as i am If you want to stand out from the C-segment hatchback crowd, the Delta's distinctive design will certainly provide the means. Although it's been around since 2008, it looks so different to everything else in its class it might as well have been minted yesterday. The elements of retro Lancia (despite the Chrysler branding) could look awkward and gimmicky but instead add a quirky Italianate flavour to the quasi-MPV shape with its kicked-up waist line and rounded rump. With a wheelbase 100mm longer than the Fiat Bravo and a high roofline, the cabin is roomy and versatile. The 60/40 split rear seat slides fore and aft on runners just like those at the front so rear passenger legroom can be played off against boot space. It all helps to give the boldly styled cabin a sumptuous, up-market air that, for some, will make a refreshing change from the rather cool and austere German offerings but, for others, might seem just a little overwrought. what gadgets do i get for my hard-earned cash? With prices starting at £16,695, the Delta is clearly going to deliver a healthy posh-per-pound quotient. The entry level S model's offering of a radio/CD with MP3 compatibility, front foglamps, remote keyless entry, six airbags and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) isn't especially generous in this highly competitive sector but the Delta's style, space and luxury ambience will take some beating for the money. Four trim levels are offered: S, SE, SR and the range-topping Limited which comes with the Blue&Me navigation system, headlamps with dusk sensors, reclining rear seats and "luxury" leather upholstery. worth some serious thought? Obviously time will tell, but strong residual values are predicted for the Delta in anticipation that buyers will welcome some of the executive-style features it offers. Fine economy and low emissions are another strong suit, the diesel models in particular offering an attractive blend of frugality and punchy performance. Even the 165bhp 2.0-litre diesel returns 55.4mpg on the combined cycle which equates to just 135 g/km of CO2. so, should we welcome them back with open arms? The launch of the Delta sees Chrysler embark on a four-year plan to re-build its dealer network and revamp its range in the UK and it could hardly have chosen a more competitive sector in which to begin its journey. It doesn't intend for the Delta to sell in high volumes but to carve out a significant niche for itself with its distinctive styling, spacious and versatile interior, executive class baubles and range of strong, efficient engines. The big difference, of course, is that this is a Fiat Group car wearing a Chrysler badge. The name may be different but those who've been waiting such a long time for Lancia's return to the UK market should have something to celebrate as well.