The Lancia Delta HF Integrale is set to make its official comeback next year.

      National Motor Museum/Getty Images

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      Like many, I was initially doubtful when it was reported a few years ago that Lancia was bringing back the Delta nameplate. My skepticism continued when the company announced the return of its revered “HF” badge—High Fidelity—designating it for particularly sporty models. What has Lancia produced that’s been sporty in the last three decades? It felt like Stellantis was cashing in on the nostalgia of rally enthusiasts, and I wasn’t having any of it. However, as the company re-engages with lower tiers of the sport and the Ypsilon HF looks promising, I’m starting to take notice. Next year, they’ll have my attention even more when they plan to launch the new “Delta with the ‘HF Integrale’ label.”

      This is part of a statement from Lancia’s recent press release, where they announced details of a new iteration of the Ypsilon HF rally car designed to meet Rally6 specifications. In the release, Lancia emphasizes that the HF name is “back and positioned to play a key role in the brand’s future vision,” which will also extend to the Gamma sedan along with the new Delta.

      To clarify: Yes, the Delta will be electric, but possibly not exclusively so. While it may be easy to forget given everything that has changed over the past years, Lancia has consistently aimed for a 2026 launch for the new Delta and appears to be staying true to that timeline.

      The new Lancia Ypsilon HF Racing, an entry-level rally vehicle in the FIA’s Rally6 division. Stellantis

      This alone is commendable in the automotive industry. However, the all-electric forecasts that emerged in the early 2020s have generally been scaled back, and since Stellantis partner Peugeot has not dismissed the idea of a gasoline version of its new e-208 GTi, there could still be a possibility for a Delta HF Integrale with a traditional engine. Moreover, Lancia has already indicated that the Gamma will be available as a hybrid.

      That said, the Delta HF expected next year is anticipated to feature a dual-motor electric setup. It is reported to be similar to the Vauxhall Mokka and, consequently, several other small Stellantis crossovers that are not widely available in the U.S. However, the platform alone doesn’t determine success; what will truly impact this Delta is the chosen body style. The distinction between a modern hatchback and an SUV often comes down to just a few inches in ground clearance. If Lancia doesn’t raise the suspension too much, it could potentially look and perform quite well.

      Of course, this is a significant assumption to make during a time when car manufacturers are often disappointing fans with the revival of cherished models. There’s limited information available about this new Delta, but fortunately, we shouldn’t have to wait too long to understand Lancia’s direction. It likely won’t compare to the classic Delta Integrale—but then again, what could? All I seek is a genuine effort. The brand is re-entering the rally scene, so I want to believe they are genuinely committed to their mission.

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