Here’s a guest blog from our friends in the UK. I did not know they were rebadging Lancias as Chryslers, but here you have it. Very impressive mileage for the diesel versions. I suspect the new CAFE standards will mean more diesels will be available in the U.S. Sounds good to me. Here’s the piece:
The new Chrysler Delta, known as a Lancia outside of the UK, has impressed because of its rather impressive economical statistics. The Delta has a range of engines to choose from, all from Fiat, and some are more eco-friendly than others.
The entry level engine isn’t exactly exciting as it’s the older T-jet 1.4 liter petrol engine, which generates 118bhp but there are several others to brighten things up.
After the entry level T-jet in the petrol (gasoline) line up is a 1.4 MultiAir engine which is capable of offering 45.4mpg but averages somewhere around the 35mph – still not bad for a five-door petrol car.
Another green option is the 1.6 MultiJet diesel which claims to be able to achieve a very economical 60.1mpg but the CO2 emissions are higher than the 1.4 MultiAir petrol at 122g/km; pushing it into band D for road tax. The most expensive options is the 162bhp 2.0 liter MultiJet oilburner which is only available in the Delta Limited Trim.
Price plays a large part in deciding on a model suitable for you as the entry level 1.4 T-Jet will cost around £17,000 compared to £25,000 for the top of the range oilburner. The Delta does represent good value for money if you bag the right model, particularly as you might also be able to get five year’s free servicing.
If you’re looking for a practical family car that oozes style and functionality, you often have to compromise on the green credentials. Although there are much “greener” cars on the market, the vast majority are small and lacking in power. With the Chrysler Delta you get the best of both worlds.
All cars come with a manual gearbox but the 1.6 liter MultiJet also has the option for a robotized manual. Driving the Delta is actually quite pleasant, particularly in the turbocharged engines as you get lots of torque at low revs and can quickly race through the gears at low speeds.
The greenest model in the Chrysler Delta range is the 1.6 MultiJet Auto SE as it offers a very respectable 61.4mpg combined and has reasonable emissions of 120g/km.
After a long spell focusing on fuel-guzzling cars for the United States, Chrysler has improved its green credentials in recent years. The Delta is one example of how it has become a much greener brand with the Chrysler Ypsilon another of its greenest vehicles.