Chrysler Delta 1.6 M-JET 120 SR 5dr Car Review - February 2012

REVIEW
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List Price: £21,195
Tax Band: D
Insurance Group: 16
MPG: 60.1
CO2: 122
0-62 Mph: 10.7 secs
BHP: 120 BHP
Range: 754 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3.75/5
Chrysler Delta 1.6 M-JET 120 SR is a good car for motorway driving. It picks up speed fast and the engine delivers plenty of power. With its family car design and roominess, it is a good choice for family road trips.

There is no shortage of standard equipment and the cost options are affordable by market standards. The car comes with a good manufacturer’s deal, which is good news given its high price.

Unique, stylish looks get the car noticed on any road or parking bay; just what you need if you are looking for something a little different.

PROS:  Very stylish looks. Good engine. Spacious. Generous equipment.

CONS:  Expensive. Cabin lacks refinement.

Behind the Wheel

At higher revs, the Delta 1.6 M-JET 120 SR's engine is strong and fast, particularly on smooth roads. Chassis response is excellent and you will enjoy a comfortable ride. Low suspension proves to be a problem on rough roads, as the ride turns bumpy and uncomfortable. You will also experience unwanted body roll in corners due to the light steering.

The Delta is powered by a 4-cylinder 1.6 litre 1598cc diesel engine. It produces 120 bhp and has torque figures of 222lb-ft at 1500 rpm. A top speed of 120mph and 0-62 mph time of 10.7 seconds make for sprightly performance.

The Delta 1.6 M-JET 120 SR is among the cars with the best noise suppression mechanisms. Only the faintest wind buzz penetrates the cabin.

Rear view visibility is restricted by chunky C pillars, and this can make reversing and parking a little tricky. Forward visibility is good though.

You get plenty of adjustment both on the steering wheel and driver’s seat, which ensures excellent driving position. Unfortunately, the seats are not supportive and can make a long drive rather tiring.

Looks & Equipment

If there is one thing in which the Chrysler Delta builders outdid themselves, it is the design and workmanship. Everything about the car’s design is classy and stylish, from the spectacular, triangular, front grille to the catchy alloy wheels and tailgates. The hatchback measures a massive 4,520mm in height and 1,791mm in width, making it one of the biggest small family cars in its class.

Despite the use of Alcantara leather, the interior still feels cheap compared to rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf. The dashboard and instruments are neat but plain-looking.

The Delta 1.6M-JET 120 SR comes with all the basic equipment and a number of upmarket, higher spec features too. Standard kit includes alloy wheels, power steering, central locking, DSC Std stability control, climate control, cruise control, alarm, immobilizer, electric front windows, electric door mirrors, 6 airbags, CD player, MP3 connectivity, Bluetooth and of course, Alcantara leather seats.

If the manufacturer had included a few more standard features, the Delta 1.6M-JET would probably stand out as a class leader. It will cost you £1,000 to get SAT Nav, £275 to get rear-parking sensors, £550 for metallic paint and £800 for adaptive suspension.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

The Euro NCAP test returned a 5-star rating for the Delta 1.6 M-JET 120 SR showing that the car makers took lengthy measures to ensure passenger and pedestrian protection.

Reliability is guaranteed (the widely-spaced service interval of 21,000 miles attests to this) and you will have few, if any, mechanical problems.

Cabin space is generous in the Delta and both front and rear passengers (up to 5 of them) will sit comfortably. It is actually one of the roomiest family cars in its class. The rear seats are flexible and can be slid and reclined for extra legroom.

There is good storage space in the interior, a large-enough glove compartment and adequate cup/bottle holders and door pockets. Boot space is more than sufficient. You get 380 litres with the seats up and 1,190 with them down.

Value for Money

At £21,195, the Delta is one of the more expensive cars in its class. 5-year free servicing from the manufacturer is a good offer and will soften the financial impact of purchasing the car.

Running costs are low, thanks to a frugal engine with a return of 60.1mpg, low CO2 emissions and low insurance rates under Group 16. An average of 122g/km in emissions qualifies the Delta for the low tax band D, which attracts £95.

Chrysler Delta 1.6 M-JET 120 SR 5dr Car Review - by 
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