Lancia enthusiasts have reason to celebrate as the iconic Italian car maker is set to launch a new Delta HF Integrale next year, marking over three decades since the production of the legendary hot hatch came to an end. The Integrale name will once again grace Lancia’s top performance models, starting from 2026. Alongside the Delta, the upcoming DS No8-twinned Gamma flagship will also feature the logo in its most powerful form.
The announcement was made during the launch of the Ypsilon Rally6 HF Racing, the second rally car introduced by Lancia since its return to motorsport with the Ypsilon Rally4 HF Racing last year. The rally-spec Ypsilon boasts an impressive 209bhp from a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine, combined with a five-speed manual gearbox and a limited-slip differential.
On the road, the Ypsilon HF, unveiled in 2021, is powered by the same electric powertrain found in models like the Peugeot e-208 GTi, Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce, and Abarth 600e. This electric setup includes a mechanical limited-slip diff, hydraulic bump stops, a rear anti-roll bar, and steering tuned for more direct responses. The Delta, expected to be twinned with the Vauxhall Mokka, is likely to receive a similar treatment for its HF Integrale range-topper.
While an electric Delta HF Integrale is in the works, Lancia hasn’t completely ruled out the possibility of a combustion-engined version, as hinted by Peugeot boss Alain Favey. The original Delta was introduced in 1979 as a family hatchback, with the more powerful HF and turbocharged HF 4WD variants following in subsequent years. The iconic Integrale name was first applied in 1987 when Lancia ventured into rallying with the Delta.
The production of the Integrale saw significant demand, with over 45,000 units being produced by 1993, surpassing the required 5000 homologated road cars per year for WRC regulations. Since its discontinuation in 1994, various “new” hot Deltas have emerged, such as the Futurista by Automobili Amos and the Grassi 044S, paying homage to the Delta S4.
The return of the Delta HF Integrale is sure to reignite the passion of Lancia enthusiasts and rally fans alike, as the iconic nameplate makes a long-awaited comeback in the automotive world. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development from Lancia.
