Chrysler Delta’s dawn in the UK
Monday, 3 October 2011 3:00 PM
The new-for-2012 Chrysler Delta was designed with Brits in mind. Striking looks for sure, and those frugal Fiat engines should help the cause
It’s an executive car in a compact hatchback body and with a starting price of just £16,695 OTR, it is throwing down the gauntlet to other more expensive competitors. Now on sale in the UK, the new Chrysler Delta has saloon space in a tight body and the low pricetag is a clear challenge to European and Japanese competitors.
Chrysler Delta’s re-entry into the C-segment, along with its little sister, the new Chrysler Ypsilon, marks the resurgence of the US automaker after its strategic alliance with Fiat, formed in 2009 in response to the global financial crisis which hit the car industry hard.
The European-designed interior is designed to appeal to drivers on this side of the Atlantic. The rear seat slides for a versatile layout with 1,010mm of legroom when it has been moved back, with the option to recline up to 25 degrees.
Technology on the Delta includes parking assist, lane departure control and Bluetooth and there are four engines on offer starting with a 1.4-litre TurboJet and a more powerful 140bhp 1.4-litre engine that benefits from Fiat’s MultiAir technology. There are also two diesel engines available, a 1.6-litre and a 2.0-litre which use Fiat’s second generation MultiJet technology. All models have a six-speed gearbox with a semi-automatic six-speed version available on the 1.6-litre SE MultiJet variant.
The 1.4-litre TurboJet petrol engine has combined fuel economy of 44.8mpg while the 1.4-litre MultiAir is even more frugal at 49.6mpg. Meanwhile, the 1.6-litre MultiJet diesel offers even better fuel economy, especially when mated to the six-speed semi-automatic gearbox with consumption at 61.4mpg combined. The 2.0-litre diesel also offers impressive combined economy at 55.4mpg and it’s the most powerful at 165bhp and 265lb-ft of torque.
The Delta’s standard equipment includes a radio/CD with MP3 capability, front foglamps with cornering function, remote keyless entry, manual air conditioning and front and back power windows. At the top end, the Limited model has Bluetooth connectivity, a navigation system, headlights with dusk sensors, reclining rear seats and leather upholstery.
Standard safety features include six airbags, traction control, antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, three-point seatbelts for all five seats, hill holder and daytime running lights.
www.chrysler.co.uk
By Georgia Lewis
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