Chrysler Delta Comprehensive Review: Space, Comfort, Tech

The Chrysler Delta, launched around 2011, brought a fresh perspective to the family hatchback segment. Drawing from Italian design influences under Fiat’s ownership, this five-door model combined eye-catching exteriors with practical interiors, positioning itself as a comfortable cruiser rather than a sporty contender. Its extended wheelbase and clever engineering made it a standout for rear passengers, offering limo-like legroom in a compact footprint.

Eye-Catching Exterior Design

From the front, the Delta commands attention with a bold grille and distinctive LED daytime running lights that frame its face elegantly. The side profile features a high waistline and sharp creases, giving it a premium, sculpted look that differentiates it from boxier rivals. At the rear, sleek taillights and a subtle spoiler enhance its modern appeal. Available in trims like the SR, it rode on 17-inch alloys, adding to its poised stance.

Built on an extended Fiat Bravo platform with a wheelbase stretched by 100mm, the Delta measures around 4.5 meters long, blending hatchback maneuverability with added interior room. Its two-tone panelwork and angular lines evoked Italian flair, making it a divisive yet memorable design in a sea of conservative family cars.

Interior Comfort and Versatility

Step inside, and the Delta surprises with a smartly furnished cockpit. The dashboard boasts bright trim accents and clear instrumentation, creating an upscale ambiance. Higher trims like SR offered suede-like Alcantara and leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, and a rear armrest for enhanced luxury.

The real star is the rear seating. The bench slides forward or backward by up to 150mm, allowing customization between legroom and boot space. Pushed fully back, it accommodates tall passengers— even a 6’4″ adult behind a similarly sized driver—with ease. The backrest reclines up to 25 degrees, ideal for long journeys. This setup delivers class-leading comfort, outpacing many competitors.

Even with maximum legroom, the boot offers 380 liters, expandable to 1,190 liters with the 60:40 split-folding seats (though not perfectly flat). A hidden compartment under the boot floor safeguards valuables, adding practicality.

This table highlights the Delta’s flexible cargo options, making it versatile for families or downsizers from larger vehicles like the Ford Mondeo.

Engine Options and Performance

The Delta’s powertrains emphasized efficiency over outright pace. The 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo petrol, producing 140 bhp at 5,000 rpm and 170 lb ft at 1,750 rpm, paired with a six-speed manual, delivered plucky performance. Real-world tests yielded over 40 mpg, even driven spiritedly, thanks to Fiat’s turbo tech.

• 1.4 MultiAir Petrol: Responsive low-end torque, suited to mixed driving; thirstier on short trips.
• 1.6 Diesel (120 hp): Torquey and frugal (~50+ mpg possible), low CO2 at 122 g/km (manual); noisy under load but cost-effective.

A six-speed automatic option on diesels slightly improved emissions to 120 g/km. Front-wheel drive kept things simple, with no all-wheel-drive variants. Acceleration was adequate—0-62 mph in around 9-10 seconds—prioritizing refinement over thrills.

Driving Dynamics and Technology

On the road, the Delta shone as a relaxed tourer. Its long wheelbase and sound deadening ensured a quiet, comfortable ride over undulating surfaces, ideal for weekend getaways. The firm suspension provided excellent body control, avoiding the wallowy feel of softer rivals like the Citroen C4.

Chrysler’s ‘Absolute Handling System’ integrated electronic aids for enhanced dynamics:

• City Mode: Lightens steering for urban parking.
• LTF (Linearisation Torque Feedback): Adds weighting in fast corners.
• TTC (Torque Transfer Control): Mimics a limited-slip diff by directing power to the gripping wheel.
• Standard stability/traction control and hill holder.

This tech fostered confident handling without hot-hatch aggression, making it rewarding on twisty roads or motorways. Steering felt light but precise, though some noted vagueness if distracted.

Noise suppression was commendable, with engine and road sounds well-muted at cruising speeds. However, the diesel could drone under acceleration.

Practicality for Everyday Use

Standard kit across the range included air conditioning, six airbags, and alloys. SR added luxuries like larger wheels and premium materials. Fleet managers appreciated low running costs, though rivals like VW Golf edged emissions.

Reliability was mixed: solid engines but occasional alternator issues and service light glitches reported. Well-maintained examples remain bargains today, offering exclusivity in the used market.

Safety and Ownership Costs

The Delta earned strong safety credentials with Euro NCAP ratings bolstered by multiple airbags, stability systems, and robust structure. Insurance groups were reasonable for the class, and parts availability benefited from Fiat/Lancia shared DNA.

Low CO2 suited company car users, with diesels particularly economical. Resale values dipped due to Chrysler’s limited UK presence, but this translates to affordable used buys now.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Who Should Buy the Chrysler Delta?

Families prioritizing rear comfort, style seekers tired of bland hatches, or downsizers needing Mondeo-like space in a nimbler package. Avoid if you crave razor-sharp handling or whisper-quiet diesels. In the used market, it’s a hidden gem for those valuing uniqueness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Chrysler Delta reliable?

Generally solid, but watch for alternator failures and service light issues. Regular maintenance from Fiat specialists keeps it trouble-free.

How spacious is the boot?

380 liters with seats back, up to 1,190 folded—flexible thanks to the sliding bench.

What’s the best engine choice?

The 1.6 diesel for economy; 1.4 petrol for smoother short-trip driving.

Does it have modern safety tech?

Yes, including ESC, traction control, and multiple airbags as standard.

Is it good for long trips?

Absolutely—quiet cabin, comfy seats, and handling aids make it a relaxed cruiser.