Chrysler Delta: What You Need To Know Before Buying

The Chrysler Delta emerged as a distinctive player in the family hatchback segment during its production run from 2011 to 2015. Rebadged from Lancia roots and built on a stretched Fiat Bravo platform, this five-door model aimed to deliver European flair with American branding. Its elongated wheelbase and clever interior features set it apart, offering limo-like rear space in a compact footprint. Drivers appreciated its comfortable ride, efficient powertrains, and suite of electronic aids that enhanced everyday usability.

Distinctive Exterior Design and Build

From the front, the Delta catches attention with its bold grille and slim LED daytime running lights, creating a premium first impression. The high waistline and sharp creases along the sides give it a muscular stance, belying its practical hatchback nature. Available in trims like SR, it rode on 17-inch alloys, adding to the upscale vibe. The two-tone panelwork in higher specs further emphasized its stylish intent, making it stand out against more conventional rivals like the Ford Focus or VW Golf.

Measuring longer than typical family hatches due to the extended wheelbase—100mm more than the Fiat Bravo—it provided a roomier cabin without ballooning overall dimensions. This smart packaging translated to a boot capacity of 380 liters even with rear seats maximized for legroom, expanding to 1190 liters when folded. A hidden compartment under the boot floor added practicality for valuables.

Interior Comfort and Versatility

Step inside, and the Delta’s cockpit impresses with bright trim accents on the dashboard and clear analog instruments. Higher trims like SR featured suede-like Alcantara and leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, and a rear armrest—equipment levels that punched above its price point.

The star feature is the rear bench, which slides forward or backward by 150mm, allowing customization between passenger legroom and cargo space. Push it fully back, and even a 6’4″ passenger sits comfortably behind a similarly tall driver. The backrest reclines up to 25 degrees, enhancing long-journey comfort. This setup makes the Delta one of the roomiest in its class for rear occupants, potentially rivaling larger Mondeo-class cars.

Note: Seats don’t fold completely flat, but the 60:40 split offers flexibility. An extendable load cover manages gaps when seats slide.

Engine Options and Performance

The Delta offered a mix of petrol and diesel units, with the 1.4 MultiAir turbo petrol (140 bhp, 170 lb ft from 1,750 rpm) paired to a six-speed manual proving popular. This Fiat-derived engine delivered plucky performance, achieving over 40 mpg in mixed driving without strain. Its low-end torque made it ideal for urban and highway use.

• 1.4 MultiAir Petrol: 140 bhp @ 5,000 rpm, efficient for short trips, returns 40+ mpg.
• 1.6 Multijet Diesel: 120 bhp, torquey but noisier, low running costs with 120-122 g/km CO2.
• Both front-wheel drive, manuals standard; auto available on diesel.

Diesels edged out on economy and emissions but could suffer alternator issues or erroneous service lights. Petrols suited shorter journeys better, avoiding diesel clatter.

Driving Dynamics and Technology

Don’t expect hot-hatch thrills; the Delta prioritized relaxed cruising. Its firm ride ensured excellent body control, with light electronic steering adjustable via ‘City’ mode for parking ease. Road and engine noise were well suppressed, rewarding careful drivers with a quiet, comfortable experience.

The ‘Absolute Handling System’ integrated electronic aids: stability control, traction control, hill holder, LTF for better cornering feel, and TTC mimicking a limited-slip diff by vectoring torque. These made it precise and confident, especially mid-corner, without compromising laid-back intent.

Engine specs for 1.4 MultiAir SR: 1,368 cc turbo petrol, 16-valve, 140 bhp, 170 lb ft torque, six-speed manual.

Reliability, Ownership, and Value

Common niggles included alternator failures and service light glitches, but well-maintained examples proved solid. Its exclusivity added appeal on the used market, often scoring high for style and kit at prices around £20,000 new (now far less). SR trim offered great value with premium touches.

CO2 figures (120-122 g/km) were competitive, though rivals like Focus bettered them slightly. Interiors had some cheap plastics, but the overall package felt fresh and different.

Who Should Consider the Chrysler Delta?

Families needing versatile space, style-conscious downsizers from bigger cars, or buyers wanting tech-laden comfort. It’s not the sportiest or plushest, but its sliding seats, efficiency, and handling smarts make it a hidden gem. Seek low-mileage, serviced units for best results.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Chrysler Delta reliable?

Generally solid if serviced properly, but watch for alternator issues and service light faults. Diesels offer better economy long-term.

What’s the boot space like?

380 liters with seats back, up to 1190 folded; sliding bench adds versatility.

How does it compare to Ford Focus or VW Golf?

More rear space and unique tech, but less polished ride/handling and slightly higher emissions.

Best engine choice?

1.6 diesel for low costs/torque; 1.4 petrol for quieter short trips.

Is it good for families?

Yes—class-leading rear legroom, safe with six airbags standard.

Final Thoughts on a Unique Hatch

The Chrysler Delta blended Italian engineering with Chrysler styling, delivering space, comfort, and smarts in a package that’s rare today. Perfect for used buyers seeking something different, it dispels preconceptions with its accomplished all-rounder nature. Test drive one to experience the sliding-seat magic and tech-assisted poise.