Detroit 2010: Chrysler Displays New Hatchback Concept Based on Italian Lancia Delta
With little more than a new grille and badging, Chrysler is displaying a possible future hatchback model at the Detroit Auto Show. With little else new other than some facelifted models for 2010, the unnamed Chrysler hatch stays true to the premium outlook that the Fiat-controlled company has for the brand. The large five-door hatch is sold in Europe under Fiat’s Lancia brand as the Delta.
The European model is relatively new overseas, having launched at the Geneva Auto Show back in 2008. Several engines are offered in Europe, including a 120-hp 1.6-liter 4-cylinder, a 163-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and a twin-turbo 1.9-liter with 190-hp.
If it does in fact launch in North America, the yet unnamed Chrysler hatch is likely to get Chrysler’s upcoming revised 2.4-liter 4-cylinder World Engine, which gets Fiat’s variable valve Multiair technology to produce 190-hp and 175 ft-lbs of torque. Compared to the old 2.4-liter, Chrysler says this new engine not only delivers improved power, but fuel economy as well.
GALLERY: Chrysler Premium Hatchback based on Lancia Delta
With AutoGuide from its launch, Colum previously acted as Editor-in-Chief of Modified Luxury & Exotics magazine where he became a certifiable car snob driving supercars like the Koenigsegg CCX and racing down the autobahn in anything over 500 hp. He has won numerous automotive journalism awards including the Best Video Journalism Award in 2014 and 2015 from the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). Colum founded Geared Content Studios, VerticalScope's in-house branded content division and works to find ways to integrate brands organically into content.
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Blah! Toyota has given the world the Prius. Stylish,economical,utile, great drive train, and mileage that no one else is close to. 200+ HP, great acceleration, towing capacity, etc. aren't very helpful downtown, in suberbia, or on the interstates. We need 5-6 person hatchbacks, with hybrid drives using regular fuel that average 50-60 mpg. Put some nice ammenities and technology in them too.