A thoroughly American large sedan (the diesel version weighs more than two tons), the challenge for Lancia will be to interest buyers when it is pitching itself against highly-regarded German opposition. If Fiat can pull off this challenge it will be a hugely cost-effective way of widening the Lancia range, but historically, rebadging in automotive circles has rarely worked effectively.

For the European market, the American market 3.6-litre ‘Pentastar’ V6 engine is retained (and is mated to the brand-new ZF 8-speed transmission), while VM Motori’s 3.0-litre turbodiesel unit, following its debut in the European Grand Cherokee, finds a second placement in the Thema, although as with the Jeep it is saddled with Daimler’s inefficient 5-speed auto. These are the only two engines available on the Thema, meaning the smallest capacity option available to buyers is a 3.0-litre powerplant – with all the resulting tax disadvantages such a large-capacity engine brings. Although it has good all-round performance, the Pentastar’s less-than-stellar efficiency of 219 g/km CO2 output means both engines are unlikely to arouse the interest of fleet buyers.

Positives include high levels of standard equipment on the entry-level versions. For the German market, the Thema range will start at 41,400 euros for the 190 CV 3.0 turbodiesel in ‘Gold’ trim and 43,900 euros for the same engine option fitted out with the ‘Platinum’ package. The 239 CV turbodiesel starts at 46,900 euros (Platinum) and 50,900 (Executive), while the 3.6 Pentastar is 46,900 euros (Platinum) and 50,900 euros (Executive). That leaves pricing broadly similar to key rival targets such as Audi’s A6, but without a lower-priced entry-level four-cylinder option, or the the tax advantages that come with the German offerings’ significantly lower CO2 outputs. Running costs of the Thema will also be higher than for its German rivals. Lancia ambitiously hopes to sell 15,000-20,000 units a year of the Thema.

DESIGN

The exterior design is visually unchanged from Chrysler's 300 sedan apart from the addition of a new front grille and specific Lancia Thema badging as well as under the skin reengineering of the bumpers, headlights and other components required to meet European legislation. The Thema is 5066 mm long, 1488 mm high, 1902 wide and has a wheelbase of 3052 mm. Features carried over from the 300 sedan include bi-xenon headlights with adaptive front lighting (AFL), LED daylights alongside the headlights, a two-panel panoramic sunroof, the largest of its class, branded kick plates, chrome-plated mirrors with self-darkening rear view mirror (driver's and passenger side), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) visual indicator and Rear Cross Path (RCP) system. The mirrors are also equipped with a LED direction indicator. The car comes with 18-inch alloy wheels as standard but 20-inch ones are optional although they significantly reduce the car's CO2 efficiency - by 6 g/km for the VM Motori diesel engine and 8 g/km for the Pentastar petrol. At the rear, now de rigueur LED tail lights, are carried over from the 300.

ENGINES

The Thema offers two different 6-cylinder engine versions, all with automatic transmission options and rear-wheel drive. In this application, the Pentastar 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine delivers a 286 CV (slightly reduced from the US-market Chrysler 300), and comes with the new ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission which Chrysler Group has been licensed to build in the future. The VM Motori 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine option, which features next-generation Multijet II injectors, is available in two power levels: 190 CV and 239 CV; both, however, are only available in conjunction with the ageing Daimler 5-speed automatic transmission.

286 CV 3.6-litre V6 ‘Pentastar’

The new 3.6-litre V6 Pentastar engine from the Chrysler Group is available on all trim levels. The engine has double overhead camshafts with independently variable valve timing on both inlet and exhaust, integrated exhaust manifolds, piston skirts covered with polymeric materials, forged steel connecting rods, and 60° die-cast aluminium crankcase. The engine delivers 286 CV (210 kW) of power at 6350rpm and 340Nm of torque at 4650rpm.

Together with the Variable Valve Timing (VVT), the two camshafts on the upper part of the head with high flow intake and exhaust valves offer optimum volumetric and fuel efficiency in the entire load and rpm interval. What results is an exceptionally flat torque curve with high specific power. The maximum engine torque is delivered in a wide range, with 90% achieved at a speed falling between 1800 and 6350rpm, offering customers outstanding driving and reactivity features.

However, the biggest problems for this engine in Europe (apart from the task of trying to convince customers to buy a 3.6-litre petrol engine) lie in the efficiency department: CO2 emissions of 219 g/km (combined cycle fuel consumption: 9.4 l/100 km) will hit the Thema hard in terms of environmental taxation across the various markets in which it will be sold. On the performance front, the new Thema has a top speed of 240 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds.

Sophistication of the single components was a key goal during the engine design phase, achieved by using state-of-the-art computer-aided design techniques. The structural intake and exhaust zones of the engine have been designed to reduce the noise levels and to attain specific goals regarding perceptible quality, in this way meeting the expectations of attentive customers. Structural rigidity is guaranteed by using four bolts on the main bearing supports side by side with another two additional bolts secured transversely. A structural bulkhead in the oil sump contributes to improving rigidity and supplying more power.

Designed in compliance with environmental criteria, the Pentastar engine does not require the use of lead during its manufacturing stages and is fitted with an eco-friendly oil filtering system. The integrated radiator/oil filtering system uses a filtering element that can be burnt instead of disposed of in a landfill like traditional filtering systems. The use of standard mineral oil-based long-life spark plugs and a direct ignition system with high energy distribution reduces maintenance costs. The new engine is produced at the Chrysler Group plants in Trenton, Michigan (USA), the first Chrysler plant to win the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) award.

190 CV and 239 CV 3.0l Multijet II V6

The new Euro 5 diesel engine was developed by Italian engine builder VM Motori in the middle of the last decade but found no takers due to its excessive weight and somewhat inefficient performance. However since then Fiat Powertrain's engineers have done their best to knock the engine into a reasonable shape for its first production application.

There are two power output options, the first delivering 190 CV at 4000 rpm, while the second step offers 239 CV at the same revs. However, the new 3.0 V6 engine further suffers in overall packaging terms from being mated up to Daimler’s inefficient 5-speed automatic transmission, the essentials of which date back to 1995. The 239 hp version has a maximum torque of 550 Nm at 1800-2800 rpm, while the 190 hp version has a maximum torque of 440 Nm at 1600-2800 rpm. The CO2 emissions amount to an unimpressive 185 g/km and combined cycle fuel consumption is 7.1 l/100km for both versions. That CO2 output compares unfavourably with the likes of Audi’s 3.0 TDI in the new A6, which emits just 133 g/km. Top speed for the VM engine is 230 km/h, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in between 7.8 seconds (239 CV) and 9.7 seconds (190 CV).

The new 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine is a 60-degree graphite cast iron block with aluminium heads and structural aluminium oil sump in two elements. The bore is 83 mm and the stroke is 92 mm. Total displacement is 2987 cubic centimetres. Bore distance is 96 mm. The new engine is 695 mm long, 729 mm wide and 697.5 mm high, while the total weight of the new engine is a hefty 230 kg – nearly 40 kg heavier than Audi’s V6 – and including the weight of a driver, helps to tip the weight of the diesel Thema above two tons.

The engine block has an architecture with reinforced structure that comprises a crankcase able give the crankshaft a rigid support. This in turn aims to contribute to reducing, on the whole, the noise of the reciprocating lower components and to improving quietness, vibrations and rigidity. The aluminium oil sump in two elements is designed to provide resistance and improve the quietness of the engine in order to increase the structural rigidity of the engine block. The crankcase has a 7.7-litre capacity. The heads are made of aluminium and are the twin overhead camshaft type with chain drive and four valves per cylinder. The intake and exhaust valves have diameters of 28 mm and 24.5 mm, respectively. The combustion chamber volume is 24.68 cubic centimetres. The forged steel crankshaft is supported by four bearings equipped with main supports, with four holes incorporated in the crankcase. Balanced on the outside, the crankshaft is 442.2 mm long. This feature made it possible to reduce the engine configuration requirements on the whole. The cast iron connecting rods have a total length of 162.9 mm. The shell cast aluminium pistons are lightweight and have been redesigned so as to minimise friction. The compression ratio of the new diesel engine is 16.5:1 and provides a cleaner combustion while at the same time ensuring more power. The main bearing supports are lead-free to guarantee less environmental impact both during production and during the later engine recycling phases. The induction system includes the turbulence control system to optimise combustion. Fitted between the intake system and the combustion chamber, turbulence control supplies the best flow of air through the combustion chamber to optimise the engine's efficiency and reduce exhaust emissions. The 1800 bar common rail injection system ensures the exact fuel supply. Thanks to the new MultiJet II technology, which makes use of a special balanced solenoid valve, the new injector is capable of making up to 8 injection per cycle with the possibility of managing the two main injections in a single modular profile (IRS - Injection Rate Shaping) thus guaranteeing a reduction in consumption and polluting emissions of approximately 2% compared to a traditional injector and ensuring a drastic reduction in noise levels. The new 3.0-litre diesel engine uses a single variable geometry Garrett VGT 2056 turbocharger with air-to-air intercooler, able to supply an almost immediate response.

5- and 8-speed automatic transmission

For its diesel engines, the new Thema is equipped with the elderly Daimler-sourced W5A580 five-speed automatic transmission, while the new 8R45 eight-speed automatic transmission developed by ZF is combined with the 3.6-litre V6 engine option. This latter transmission is characterised by a smooth gear change, low fuel consumption and response time. The higher total transmission ratio and the shorter travel distances of the gears, in particular the first and second, contribute to rapid acceleration. A lower number of ‘heavy’ of gear sets also ensures reliable operation. Furthermore, 200 thousandths of a second is the time the 8-speed automatic transmission takes to change from one gear to another, which ensures exceptional driving pleasure, efficiency and ultimate comfort. The AutoStick function allows the driver to engage a higher or lower gear, while calibration of the transmission controller prevents the engine from over-revving. An adaptive electronic control for all gearshift types increases engine response, thereby reducing its rigidity. The final drive ratio of the Thema is equal to 2.65, supplying high efficiency both about town and on longer journeys.

The Thema carries over the Chrysler 300's safety features to offer 70 preventive, active and passive safety features. The main devices and systems are described below.

Active safety

Antilock Braking System (ABS): detects and prevents the wheels from locking by acting independently on all four wheels, improving steering control in extreme braking conditions and/or on slippery surfaces (standard);
Antilock braking system with bumpy road detection: this system is able to detect if the vehicle is travelling on rough roads based on the oscillations of the speed signals of the wheels. When a rough road or slippery stretch is detected, the ABS activates a slightly different pressure control that maintains brake pressure in the event of prolonged pressure (standard);
Traction control at all speeds: it is part of the ABS system as standard and aids preventing the drive wheels from slipping during acceleration from standstill or at all speeds by using the brakes on the single wheels or in combination with the engine torque limiting device (standard);
Speed and safety distance control (ACC): the system reduces the Thema's set cruise speed when it approaches another vehicle in the same lane or when another vehicle enters the same lane. The system returns to the set speed when the vehicle in front accelerates or moves to another lane. The ACC maintains the distance set by the driver between the two vehicles, thus allowing the Cruise Control to be used also in light traffic, without having to continuously modify the settings;
Braking Traction Control System (BTCS): it reduces the risk of the drive wheels slipping during acceleration from standstill or at a low speed by using the brakes on the single wheels in the event of slipping (standard);
Braking assistance: the system applies maximum braking power in emergency braking situations, thus ensuring the minimum stopping distance (standard);
Braking redefinition: the brake signal sends the engine controller a signal that reduces engine power when there are contrasting impulses between the accelerator and brake, allowing the driver to stop the Thema (standard);
Electronic Stability Control (ESC): it increases the driver's control of the vehicle to allow him to maintain a stable direction in all driving conditions. It is useful in critical situations, when cornering and when driving on mixed surfaces in the presence of snow, ice or gravel for example. If a difference between the driver's action on the steering wheel and the vehicle path is detected, the ESC applies selective braking and then restores the accelerator's action, returning the vehicle to the speed the driver wants (standard);
Hill-start Assist (HSA): it prevents the Thema from moving back by maintaining the braking pressure applied by the driver for a brief period after he removes his foot from the brake pedal, in this way helping the driver when starting off uphill from a standstill (standard).

Preventive safety

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM): it uses ultra broadband radar sensors that assist the driver during lane changes and when the Thema is overtaken or overtakes vehicles concealed from view. The system notifies the driver of the presence of a vehicle in the blind spots with illuminated icons on the side mirrors and by activating an acoustic signal selected by the driver;
Forward Collision Warning (FCW): the radar sensors located in the front direction are used by the device to check if the vehicle is approaching the vehicle travelling in front of it too quickly and, if necessary, to send a signal to the driver so he can take steps to avoid an accident;
Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL): this system externally adjusts the headlight beam up to 15 degrees to the right or to the left, depending on the direction of rotation of the vehicle (standard);
Automatic Demisting: this allows the automatic temperature control system (ATC) of the Thema to measure the humidity level inside the vehicle and automatically demist the windscreen without any intervention by the driver (standard);
Automatic headlights: system able to detect decreased lighting conditions (also while going through tunnels) that automatically activates the headlights without any intervention by the driver (standard);
Automatic windscreen wipers: convenient device that automatically detects the presence of humidity on the Thema's windscreen and activates the windscreen wipers (standard on Platinum and Executive);
Daytime Running Lights (DRL): LED daylights that comply with current legal regulations (standard);
LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL): greater forward lighting to make the vehicle more visible with harmonious and effective lighting (standard);
LED taillights: equipped with double lighting harmoniously and effectively integrated in the rear light cluster by way of the single lighting LEDs (standard);
High-intensity discharge headlights (HID): they supply lighting three times greater than the quantity of light produced by traditional headlamps, considerably improving night lighting (standard);
SmartBeam headlights: the headlight system adapts to the light of the surrounding environment and to the arriving traffic in order to supply maximum lighting (standard for Platinum and Executive);
Ready Alert Braking: device able to predict if the driver is starting emergency braking, and it uses the ESC pump to move the brake pads closer to the rotors and reduce the time required for applying the brakes (standard);
Rain Brake Support: this system uses the pump of the electronic stability control system (ESC) to slightly push the brake pads toward the rotors of the brakes when it rains to keep them dry, thus ensuring excellent braking performance on wet surfaces (standard);
Rear Cross Path Detection (RCP): the device informs the driver when it detects arriving traffic during reversing to leave a parking space. It is enabled when the reverse gear is engaged. The system notifies the driver of the presence of vehicles coming from behind with illuminated icons on the side mirrors and by activating an acoustic signal selected by the driver;
ParkSense rear parking assistance system: this system helps detect still objects during reverse parking at low speed. It emits acoustic signals for the driver and is equipped with a screen inserted in the instrument panel in the onboard computer (EVIC), standard;
ParkView rear reverse camera: it offers a wide-angle view of the area immediately behind the vehicle on the screen of the navigation system, thus allowing the driver to reverse with greater peace of mind. A grid to use as reference for parking manoeuvres in limited spaces and narrow zones is displayed on the screen. The image is displayed on the Uconnect Touch screen when reverse is engaged (standard);
Keyless Enter-N-Go: several electronic sensors detect the presence of the remote control included in the key when getting into the Thema. At this point, you can press the starting button without having to insert the ignition key (the driver must press the brake pedal when starting the vehicle); standard;
Electrically adjustable and telescopic steering column with memorising function: it allows the steering column to be tilted and its height to be adjusted to the driver in order to optimize the driver's comfort (standard for Platinum and Executive);
Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPM): the driver is informed that the tyre pressure is too low. The pressure sensor modules inside the valve stem of the four wheels send radio frequency signals to a receiver and the system. The information on the pressure of the single tyres can be displayed on the on-board computer (EVIC) (standard);
BeltAlert: it activates an acoustic signal and/or displays an icon on the instrument panel to remind the driver and passenger to fasten their seat belts when the front seat occupants of the Thema travel without having fastened their seat belts (standard);
Auto-reverse sunroof: advanced detection system that in the event of any obstacles is automatically activated to reverse sunroof movement to the opening position;
Electric windows with quick control: electric front windows with quick opening and closing control by pressure located on the front doors, both driver's side and passenger side (standard);
Intelligent Battery Sensor (IBS): device that continuously measures the flow of current going into and leaving the battery. If the battery is running down, the system intelligently disables the less critical electric systems to prevent the customer from remaining on foot because the battery is discharged or flat. An icon appears on the instrument panel when the IBS executes an automatic charge lightening (standard);
Garmin navigation system: maps easy to consult with voice instructions, more than six million points of interest and lane instructions;
Uconnect Touch: it offers exceptional infotainment functions and advanced on-board technologies to keep passengers connected, safe and completely comfortable (standard);
Uconnect Voice Command: on-board communication system with voice activation that allows the driver to use a Bluetooth compatible mobile phone while keeping his hands on the steering and without taking his eyes off the road. The phonebook is automatically downloaded and up to 1,000 items are synchronised the first time the Bluetooth mobile phone is connected. Afterwards, they can be selected by simply saying the corresponding name. It also allows the driver to select one of the available radio modes and to tune AM/FM stations using natural voice commands. The hands-free option preserves safety, freedom of movement and flexibility (standard);
PowerNet: new electric architecture of the Thema for connectivity between the different advanced technologies and options for on-board personalisation (standard);
Active direction indicators: the direction indicator flashes three times when the lever is activated for one second to indicate a lane change (standard);
External self-darkening rear view mirror (driver's side): detects and reduces any dazzling created by the headlights of vehicles behind without any intervention by the driver (standard);
Internal self-darkening rear view mirror: detects and reduces any dazzling created by the headlights of vehicles behind without any intervention by the driver (standard);
Mirrors with additional direction indicators: positioned in the external rear view mirrors, the direction indicators more clearly inform other vehicles that the driver is about to turn or change lanes (standard);
Self-lowering of the side mirrors (in reverse): system that automatically lowers the side mirrors to give the driver better visibility of the ground, kerbs or other obstacles when reverse gear is engaged (standard for Platinum and Executive);
Electric sunshade: automatic sun shield to reduce the heat inside the passenger compartment and increase passenger privacy. This sunshade automatically lowers in reverse to provide maximum rear visibility (standard for Platinum and Executive);
Fuel flap with electronic closing (without cap): makes refuelling operations easier and eliminates any contact with fuel spilling. It also protects against any attempted theft of fuel from the tank and vandalism against the fuel supply system thanks to the electronic closing and internal release using the button (standard);
Emergency internal boot release: phosphorescent release handle that can be activated if an adult or child inadvertently remains trapped in the boot (standard);
Anti-theft system: discourages vandalism and attempted theft, often bringing the insurance premium down considerably. This system protects the vehicle from attempted theft or unauthorised access by monitoring the door locking switches and the ignition circuit;
Immobilizer Sentry Key: it uses the remote control inserted in the key that incorporates a transponder with a pre-programmed safety code to switch off the engine after a few seconds, like a theft-deterrent device (standard).

Passive safety

Advanced multistage airbags: they open with more or less force, depending on the seriousness of the impact. The new airbag design of the airbag for the Thema's driver includes restraint devices that shape the airbag to reduce the force of impact and chest injuries of the occupants. The passenger's airbag is designed to open at a varying speed according to the position of the occupants (standard);
Side window airbags: extensive protection of all the passengers sitting on the front and rear seats. Every side airbag is equipped with its own impact sensor for independent activation on the impact side. The side window airbag is housed in the roof lining, above the side windows (standard);
Knee airbags: housed underneath the instrument panel, the knee airbag opens when the airbag on the driver's side opens, and it was specifically designed to correctly position the occupant during a collision and offer greater protection of the legs (standard);
Pelvis and chest airbags installed on the seat: these increase the safety of driver and passenger on the driver's side in some types of impact. Every side airbag is equipped with its own impact sensor for independent activation on the impact side. The standard side airbags are fitted on the external side of each front seat (standard);
Reactive head restraints: they activate in the event of a rear impact. The headrests are designed to reduce personal injury by decreasing the distance between the headrest and the passenger's head (standard);
Headrest: a rear passenger headrest for all seat positions is also present (standard);
3-point seatbelts: all the external front seat positions and rear seat positions are equipped with seatbelts for pelvis and shoulders (standard);
Height-adjustable seatbelts: these allow the front passengers to raise or lower the upper seatbelt part. This system stimulates seatbelt use by ensuring greater comfort (standard);
Seatbelt pretensioners: the impact sensors activate the pretensioners of the front seats in the case of impact. These latter correctly tighten the seatbelts, in this way reducing the forward freedom of movement of the occupant's head and chest (standard);
Constant Force Restraint (CFR): this device checks the degree of force applied by the seatbelt on the occupant and then gradually releases the seat belt in controlled way (standard);
Occupant Retaining Controller (ORC): it detects an impact and determines if the impact is strong enough to require the airbag to open and if it is sufficient to activate only the first phase of inflation or if the second is also required. In addition, the controller detects the side impacts and determines whether or not to activate the window airbags fixed to the bars and the side airbags built into the seats (chest protection). The controller also manages the seatbelt pretensioners of the front seats (standard);
Active Pedestrian Protection: in the event of accidental impact, the system "lifts" the rear of the bonnet to protect the pedestrian (standard);
Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS): it facilitates intervention of first response personnel after an accident by switching on the interior lights, making the emergency lights flash and unlocking the doors of the Thema after the airbags open. It also interrupts the flow of petrol going to the engine (standard);
Door protection bars: for protecting the passengers in the event of a side impact (standard);
Child seat anchoring system (ISOFIX): the system is designed to simplify the assembly of the compatible child seats (standard);
Controlled crumple zones: these are zones designed to crumple in the case of accident in order to absorb the energy of the impact and reduce its transfer to the passengers (standard)
Energy absorbing steering wheel column: the steering wheel column with manual adjustment uses two coaxial ducts made with hydroforming able to execute reciprocal movements to allow the column to advance and absorb more energy during an impact. The new electric steering wheel column uses a calibrated bent element that deforms during steering wheel column movement and ensures optimum management of the energy;
Safety cage structure: this protects the occupants by managing and controlling the energy in the case of impact (standard).

TECHNOLOGY

New Uconnect Touch 8.4 and 8.4N system and the biggest touch-screen of the class

Chrysler's Uconnect Touch 8.4 screen is carried over from the 300 and includes an 8.4" QVGA touchscreen, Uconnect system with voice commands and Bluetooth, SD card reader (compatible with music files in MP3/WMA format), USB port with iPod command, DVD, single DVD player with exclusive reading of the MP3/WMA formats, automatic dual zone climate control commands and AM/FM radio.

Standard on the entire range, the system is complete with an 8.4-inch touchscreen where all of the information necessary for driving and comfort on board is clearly and immediately displayed. And again with maximum safety and ease of use in mind, both audio and connectivity controls located on the spokes of the steering wheel and an innovative voice-activated hands-free device are available. In detail, this latter feature - called Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth - lets the driver manage a Bluetooth compatible phone while keeping his hands on the steering wheel and without taking his eyes off the road. The phonebook is automatically downloaded and up to 1,000 items are synchronised the first time the Bluetooth mobile phone is connected. Afterwards, they can be selected by simply saying the corresponding name. Using voice commands, the driver can also select one of the available radio modes and tune AM/FM stations in a totally natural way and with utmost freedom of movement.

Completing the functions of the Uconnect Touch 8.4 system is the USB port with iPod control. Situated under the armrest of the central console, this multimedia input lets the driver control an iPod or another mobile peripheral device using the Uconnect Touch system and the audio controls on the steering wheel. The USB port also makes it possible to recharge any USB-supplied device in addition to playing and checking audio files in MP3 and WMA format saved on a USB pen drive.

The Uconnect Touch 8.4N is offered as standard on the Platinum and Executive, on request on the Gold trim levels. Added to the functions described above is the Garmin navigation system with more than six million points of interest. The big 8.4" touchscreen provides driver and passengers with detailed instructions and simplified visual signals while the vehicle is travelling, in addition to an extensive database of points of interest that makes it easy to find restaurants, stores, hospitals and other destinations in the vicinity.

Alpine Premium audio systems

The new Thema offers three audio systems among other things featuringAlpine and Harman Kardon speakers and amplifiers. Supplied standard on the Gold and Platinum trim levels, the first premium system with six speakers has a six-channel amplifier with 276 W of power, two 3.5" speakers located in the instrument panel, two 6 x 9" speakers set inside the front doors, and two 6 x 9" speakers positioned in the parcel shelf.

The second Alpine Premium hi-fi system with nine speakers and subwoofer, standard on the Executive trim level and optional on the Platinum, has a 12-channel amplifier with 506 W of power, digital signal processing (DSP) with 7.1 audio surround, three 3.5" speakers in the instrument panel; two 6 x 9" speakers set inside the front doors, two 3.5" speakers positioned in the rear doors, and an 8" subwoofer set in the centre of the parcel shelf.

Also available upon request on the Executive trim level is a Harmon Kardon sound system complete with 19 speakers plus subwoofer, supplying a total of 900 W of amplification. The audio device consists of an 11-channel system with 900 W of power, six 3.5" speakers positioned in the instrument panel, two 6 x 9" speakers set inside the front doors, four 3.5" speakers placed in the rear doors, two 6 x 9" speakers set in the parcel shelf of the vehicle, four 3.5" speakers placed in the parcel shelf of the vehicle, a 10" subwoofer positioned in the centre of the parcel shelf and a 12-channel Harman Kardon amplifier.

SERVICES

Lancia has created a new service programme called "Top Care Thema" which aims to follow the private customers of the major European markets throughout the first year. A dedicated team contacts them right after delivery and then again after four and twelve months to collect impressions and offer helpful hints and support. It will be the same preferential channel to which all Top assistance on the advanced functions of the Thema can be requested, even at home and as one requires.

FGA Capital - a finance company specialising in the automotive sector - is offering financial solutions ideal for demanding customers for the commercial launch of the Lancia Thema. Starting with leasing, the formula dedicated to freelancers, self-employed workers and entrepreneurs that allows them to use the car without tying up capital. You can choose the contract duration and the amount of the first instalment, and also enjoy a highly flexible final redemption value. Particularly suitable for "professional customers", this formula is even more appealing thanks to the new Extended Warranty to accommodate the specific needs of mobility of this category distinguished by a frequent use of the car, and therefore by high mileage. Marketed in the main European markets during the next few months, what's exciting about the new Extended Warranty is duration up to 96 months, the unlimited mileage and the contents: practically complete coverage for the vehicle components. What's more, you will even receive the same level of coverage for the entire duration of your loan, a distinctive feature on the market.

In some markets (Italy, UK, France, Spain and Netherlands), long-term hire is available. It is the answer best suited to the needs of both the "single entrepreneur" and small-medium companies (fleets) because it represents the most complete offer for those who work and for those who need to benefit from using the car, cancelling the tax costs and reducing those regarding the hassle of bureaucracy and administration. In addition, this solution guarantees the availability of an always new and efficient "vehicle fleet" thanks to the service included in the instalment.

Moreover, aware of the fact that special customers deserve exclusive services, FGA Capital and Lancia have conceived "Ypsilon Tender to Thema", an original offer for managers of those companies that choose the Thema as their official car. In detail, these special customers can benefit from a new Lancia Ypsilon free of charge for 12 months. The exclusive "Ypsilon Tender to Thema" takes its cue from the world of boating. Every prestigious yacht has its own tender, a small and practical boat used for easily reaching coves and beaches otherwise inaccessible. In the very same way the new Ypsilon has become the tender of the Thema flagship, a fashion city car that meets all mobility needs while maintaining all of the comfort and attention to detail that are classical hallmarks of the Lancia brand. Finally, it is always possible to combine all the financial products with the usual car insurance services, such as GAP, Fire&Theft and Comprehensive and so on for credit protection. All are absolutely integrable in the finance plan chosen and are offered at a discounted rate with respect to the current market conditions.

STANDARD AND OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT

On sale from October in all European dealerships, the Thema is available in three trim levels which have been rejigged from the Chrysler 300 - Gold, Platinum and Executive - and with two engines: the 286 hp 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine with 8-speed automatic gearbox and new 190 hp/239 hp 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engines, with 5-speed automatic gearbox.

The first Lancia Thema trim level, Gold, on the outside is marked by 18-inch aluminium wheels, bixenon headlights, automatic headlights, chrome elements on the front, headlights complete with LED technology and "C"-shaped DRL function, chrome-plated door handles and door mirrors, LED taillights with "light tube", two chrome-plated exhaust pipes with rounded edges, and electrically controlled fuel flap without cap.

Inside, safety and protection features include: reactive head restraints on the front seats, advanced multi-stage airbags, side window airbags, side airbags for the chest installed on the seat, airbags for the knees (driver's side), headrests on all rear seats, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), uphill starting assistance system (HSA), Rain Brake Support (RBS), Ready Alert Braking (RAB), door mirrors with additional direction indicators and approach light, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPM), automatic windscreen wipers, fog lights, front and rear parking sensors (ParkSense) and Parkview rear back-up camera.
 
The standard equipment of the Gold trim level continues with Uconnect Touch 8.4, USB port with iPod control, SD card reader, AUX input, audio controls on the steering wheel, stereo system with six speakers, Keyless Enter-N-Go, automatically opening tailgate, dual zone automatic climate control system with humidity sensor, front and rear air conditioning vents, air filter, acoustic windscreen, Nappa leather seats, heated front seats, electric 12-position seats (driver's side) with electric 4-position lumbar support, 60-40 separated fold-down rear seats complete with armrest and two cup holders. Also supplied standard: cruise speed control, electric windows with quick open/close command, self-darkening rear view mirror, leather steering wheel with manually adjustable/telescopic steering column, leather gear lever, logo inside the tailgate, dashboard with LED lighting and EVIC system (multifunction information display), temperature display, analogue clock, satin chrome internal door handles, LED illuminated support handles, front LED map reading lights, front LED illuminated cup holders, LED reading lights for the rear passengers, front and rear LED illuminated door handles, LED illuminated central storage compartment, glove compartment light, illuminated courtesy mirrors and two 12V electrical sockets.

In addition to this equipment, the Platinum trim level offers important features that increase its connectivity, comfort and on-board function levels. There is also perforated leather upholstery and walnut mouldings, heated steering wheel also covered with walnut and leather, electrically adjustable/telescopic steering column, electrically adjustable pedals with position memorisation, special mats, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, Uconnect Touch 8.4N CD/DVD/MP3 with Garmin navigation system standard with TMC Premium services included.

Compared to the Platinum trim level, the Thema Executive is fitted out with an Alpine audio system with 9 speakers and subwoofer supplying a total of 506 W of amplification, leather and walnut, dashboard upholstered in Poltrona Frau leather, heated two-tone leather steering wheel with gear shift on the steering wheel, satin chrome finishes, 20" alloy wheels and the SafetyTec package. The Harmon Kardon audio system is instead available on request. Equipped with 19 speakers complete with subwoofer, it delivers a total of 900 W of amplification. The optional panoramic sunroof is the largest of the class (also available on the Platinum).

Lastly, the SafetyTec package is available on the range (optional on the Thema Platinum and standard on the Executive). It includes the Forward Collision Warning (FCW) functions with speed and safety distance control (Adaptive Speed Control - ACC), Blind Spot Monitoring (which detects blind spots - BSM) and Rear Cross Path (presence of vehicles coming from behind - RCP).

ItaliaspeedTV - New Lancia Thema