Fulvia to head up Lancia comeback?

ONE of the most famous names in Italian performance car history is set to return, Auto Express can reveal.

The new Lancia Fulvia got a stunning reception when it was revealed as a concept at the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show. However, a lack of investment money meant the car was put on the back-burner... until now.

Based on the Fiat Grande Punto’s platform, the newcomer will also get that model’s 1.4-litre turbo. Offering front-wheel drive and around 150bhp, it will share its suspension with the recently launched Alfa MiTo (driven on page 28).

Our spies say an evolution of the original concept will be revealed at September’s Paris Motor Show, alongside the recently unveiled Delta. It’s rumoured that this car could even be a convertible. Aimed at the BMW 1-Series and recently facelifted Audi A3, the Fulvia will blend value for money with a luxurious, stylish interior.

Lancia will return to the UK early next year with plans to sell around 2,500 cars annually. First to arrive will be the Delta and upmarket Ypsilon supermini.