Lancia Delta HF Integrale Returns: Legend or Just a Name Without Soul?
Thought the legendary Lancia Delta HF Integrale was gone for good? Think again! This iconic Italian car, a rally legend and a dream for car lovers, might be making a comeback — but is it really what we want?
A Legend Returns or Just a Marketing Gimmick?
Last year, Lancia launched the new Ypsilon, and now they’re bringing back the HF Integrale badge on sporty versions of the Gamma Delta model. HF stands for “High Fidelity” and was the mark of some of Lancia’s most powerful and beloved cars like the Stratos and the original Delta Integrale, which dominated rally races in the 80s and 90s.
But hold your horses — the new Delta won’t be the same beast. Reports say it might share a platform with the Opel Mokka and use Stellantis’ CMP platform, supporting both internal combustion and electric powertrains. Yes, you read that right — the legendary Integrale might get an electric motor, which for some fans is nothing short of sacrilege.
What Happened to Lancia?
Lancia has been neglected for years, with sales plummeting 72% in May to just 5 vehicles sold. That’s a far cry from its glory days. The new Ypsilon is the only model selling, but it’s not enough to save the brand from fading away.
Is This the End of an Era?
The original Delta HF Integrale was pure magic — a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, and rally-bred performance that thrilled fans worldwide. Production ended in 1994, but its legendary status only grew.
Now, with plans to slap the HF Integrale badge on new models that might be electric and share platforms with completely different cars, the question is: is this a true comeback or just a hollow marketing move?
What to Expect from the New Gamma Delta?
The new Gamma Delta will be a luxury sedan or coupe, a twin to the DS No8, focusing on comfort and luxury rather than racing pedigree. Another sign that Lancia is changing its identity and drifting away from what it once was.
The Bottom Line
Lancia Delta HF Integrale is a legendary car that left an indelible mark on the automotive and rally world. Its announced return stirs mixed feelings — excitement for the name’s revival, but worry it might just be a shadow of its former glory.
If you’re a car or rally fan, this is a hot topic. Do you think Lancia can bring back the spirit of the old Delta Integrale, or is it better left as a legend? Drop your thoughts — maybe together we’ll figure out what’s really coming!
Source: Index.hr, Autocar
