The Definitive Guide to the Lancia Delta Hatchback: A Rally Icon Reborn

The Lancia Delta hatchback is a legendary name in the world of rallying. It first made its mark in the 1970s, winning numerous championships and cementing its place as one of the most iconic rally cars ever produced. In 2008, Lancia revived the Delta name with a stylish hatchback that combined the classic rally-bred DNA with modern technology.

A Legacy of Success

The original Lancia Delta was born in 1979. It was based on the Fiat Ritmo but featured a more powerful engine and a host of rally-inspired modifications. The Delta quickly proved its worth, winning the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 1987, 1988, and 1989. It also won the Tour de Corse six times, a record that still stands today.

The 2008 Lancia Delta hatchback was a spiritual successor to the original. It shared many of the same design cues, including the classic "Delta" badge and the distinctive tailgate spoiler. The new Delta was powered by a range of gasoline and diesel engines, and it offered a variety of advanced features, such as a navigation system and a rear-view camera.

Performance and Handling

The Lancia Delta hatchback is a driver's car. It offers sharp handling, precise steering, and plenty of power. The base model is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that produces 120 horsepower. The uplevel models feature a 1.8-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that produces 150 horsepower.

The Delta is also available with a diesel engine. The 1.6-liter turbocharged diesel engine produces 120 horsepower and offers excellent fuel economy.

All models of the Delta come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. A dual-clutch automatic transmission is available as an option.

The Delta's suspension is tuned for both performance and comfort. It absorbs bumps and road imperfections well, while still providing a sporty feel. The car also has a relatively low center of gravity, which helps to improve its handling and stability.

Interior and Comfort

The Lancia Delta hatchback has a spacious and well-appointed interior. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and there is plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.

The dashboard is well-designed and easy to use. The controls are conveniently located, and the instruments are clear and easy to read. The Delta also offers a variety of storage compartments, including a large glove box and a center console with a storage bin.

Safety

The Lancia Delta hatchback is a safe car. It received a five-star rating from the Euro NCAP crash test organization. The Delta comes standard with a variety of safety features, including:

• Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
• Electronic stability control (ESC)
• Traction control
• Hill hold assist
• Airbags

Fuel Economy

The Lancia Delta hatchback is fuel-efficient. The 1.4-liter gasoline engine gets an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. The 1.8-liter gasoline engine gets 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. The 1.6-liter diesel engine gets an EPA-estimated 38 mpg in the city and 49 mpg on the highway.

Value for Money

The Lancia Delta hatchback is a good value for money. It offers a lot of features for its price, and it is a well-built car that is backed by a good warranty.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your Lancia Delta hatchback:

• Use the sport mode to improve the car's handling and performance.
• Use the hill hold assist to prevent the car from rolling backwards when you are starting on a hill.
• Check the tire pressure regularly to ensure that the tires are properly inflated.
• Change the oil and filter regularly to keep the engine running smoothly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when driving a Lancia Delta hatchback:

• Don't over-rev the engine. The Delta's engine is designed to produce its power at low to mid-range RPMs.
• Don't shift gears too early. The Delta's engine is happiest when it is kept in the 3,000-4,000 RPM range.
• Don't brake too hard. The Delta's brakes are powerful, but they can be sensitive.

Step-by-Step Approach to Buying a Lancia Delta Hatchback

1. Research the different models and trims. Decide which model and trim level is right for you. Consider your needs and budget.

2. Find a dealer. Locate a Lancia dealer in your area. You can use the dealer locator on Lancia's website.

3. Test drive the car. Take the car for a test drive to get a feel for its performance and handling.

4. Negotiate the price. Agree on a price for the car. Be prepared to negotiate.

5. Finance the car. If you are financing the car, get pre-approved for a loan before you go to the dealership.

6. Buy the car. Sign the paperwork and take your new Lancia Delta hatchback home!

Call to Action

If you are looking for a stylish, fun-to-drive, and fuel-efficient hatchback, the Lancia Delta hatchback is a great option. It offers a lot of features for its price, and it is backed by a good warranty. Visit your local Lancia dealer today to test drive the Delta and see for yourself why it is one of the best hatchbacks on the market.

Additional Information

Fuel Economy Table

Safety Features Table

Common Mistakes to Avoid Table