Despite the fact that I still have doubts for the rear end design, overall, the Delta HPE Concept proves that in terms of styling, the Italians are in a class of their own. A closer look at the concept reveals that, practically -with the exception of some minor details like the rear and front light clusters, we are looking at Lancia's new mid-sized model that, according to my information, will be revealed at the 2007
Although the Italians are using the name Delta, this car will not actually substitute Lancia's homonymous Golf contender that went out of production a few years ago. The Delta HPE will try to fit in a more niche segment, competing not only against more upscale C-Segment models like the Audi A3 Sportback but it will try to draw attention from mid-size sedan buyers. Like Nissan's Qashqai which replaces the Almera (C-Segment) and Primera (D-Segment), the Delta HPE will fill in the space between the Delta and the Lybra (mid size sedan), both of whom are out of production.
That is more obvious from the Concepts dimensions: 4.5 metres long, 1.8 metres wide, 1.5 metres tall and 2.7 metres wheelbase. As for the engine range, according to Lancia's press release the Delta HPE Concept Car is designed to be equipped with a wide selection of petrol and diesel engines, all turbocharged and combined with 6 speed manual and robotised gearboxes with power ratings ranging from 120 hp to over 200 hp. That means that we it'll get Fiat Groups upcoming 1.4 turbo and 1.6 Turbo petrol and today's 1.9 JTD and 2.4 JDTM diesel engines.
Despite the fact that Lancia announced that it will make Delta HPE Concept's world premiere at The 63rd Venice International Film Festival (from August 30th to September 9th 2006) practically, the car will make its public debut at the Paris International Motor Show at the end of the month.
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