For the first time ever, Lancia will share its display with Chrysler at the Geneva Motor Show, demonstrating the Fiat Group's vision for a common future for the two brands.
But while the Detroit Show earlier this year gave us a Chrysler-badged Delta prototype, the Italian firm's press release did not mention any plans for a Lancia-badged Chrysler model, simply noting that two Delta hatchbacks and two 300C sedans will be hosted on a common platform.
The Italian company added that it will show off a special edition version of the Delta finished in dark matte color called "Hard Black" that is further enhanced with chrome-plated mirror frames and new 18-inch burnished alloy wheels.
The special series of the Delta that will go on sale in Europe later in the year also features new color and material combinations in the interior including beige seats in leather and Alcantara, as well as additional standard equipment such as the electronic Reactive Suspension System, automatic dual zone air conditioner and the Blue&Me system.
European consumers will have two engine options, a diesel or a gasoline unit. The 200HP 1.8-liter turbocharged petrol is linked to a six speed automatic transmission allowing the hatch to reach a top speed of 230 km/h (143mph) and go from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph)in 7.4 seconds while returning 7.8 lt/100km or 30.2mpg US on the combined European cycle.
The 1.9-liter twin-turbo diesel produces 190HP and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of peak torque at 2,000 rpm. It propels the Delta from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 7.9 seconds and on to a maximum speed of 222km/h or 138mph. It returns an average fuel consumption of 5.7 lt/100km or 41.3 mpg US.