Lancia Thema 3.0 V6 CRD 240 CV, road test (Exterior design, interior and trim)

We have arrived at the second instalment of the road test of the Lancia Thema, an Italian-American saloon that represents the flagship of Lancia in Europe. As we already mentioned, it is closely related to the Chrysler 300C, as it is the model it derives from, but with adjustments to suit European tastes.

In the first part we analysed everything related to its powerful Italian-built V6 diesel engine, which develops 240 CV. We also analysed the behaviour and consumption of this rear-wheel-drive saloon. Now, in the second part, we turn to the design, both exterior and interior.

Exterior design

It is on the outside that the American DNA is most evident. We are dealing with a large saloon measuring 5.06 metres in length with a wheelbase of 3 metres. The design is robust, highlighted by the large front grille and the bi-xenon headlights fitted as standard, profiled with LED technology and with orange side lights, a very American touch.

Various chrome elements create the distinctive note compared with the American model, while on the side the 20-inch alloy wheels and the small side windows stand out. Overall, the glazed area of the car is not very large, with a small windscreen and a small rear window, which contributes to its imposing and robust image.

At the rear, there are new lights, with LED technology, and the chrome strip outlining the upper part of the bumper stands out. Finally, the sporty touch comes from its two exhaust outlets, necessary for the powerful V6 unit housed under its bonnet.

Interior design, space and trim

Inside, it lives up to the description of a representative saloon, both in terms of the technology used and the quality perceived in its cabin. In the “Executive” trim the dashboard is fully covered in leather, something not even a premium saloon offers as standard, and there are various wood inserts on the centre console and transmission tunnel.

In the base trim, the dashboard is made of hard plastic, a plastic not very in keeping with the car, but the starting price is reasonable at 38,250 euros and the standard equipment is comprehensive. In the Executive trim, it adds the quality touch typical of a saloon of this type. As standard it features a touchscreen from which we can control the multimedia system and some air-conditioning functions or the electric rear blind, for example.

The driving position is comfortable and low, and we sit on seats that look more like armchairs. They are microperforated leather, heated and ventilated, another feature that is rare to find as standard, and the steering wheel and pedals can be adjusted electrically to set everything to our liking.

In the rear seats there is enough room for three adults, and two will travel very comfortably, on a par with a Peugeot 607, Mercedes E-Class, BMW 5 Series or Audi A6. Nor will those travelling in the back lack comforts, since the seats are heated, there is an electric rear sunblind and rear air vents.

Storage and boot

The boot, despite its dimensions, does not reach 500 litres of capacity; it stays at around 462 litres. The shape is regular, but the loading aperture is not very wide due to the saloon-style tailgate.

As for storage, the car is well equipped: as well as door pockets and a glovebox of a reasonable size, it also has several cup holders in the transmission tunnel, with two functions. Using a button, we can cool or heat drinks, a fully premium feature.

The touch of humour came from the interior boot release handle, which lets you open it from inside. It makes clear that if you are kidnapped and the kidnappers use a Lancia Thema for the job, you can always pull that lever and walk out, as shown in the drawing.

In the third part of the test we will focus on the equipment, including the extensive safety provision that the Thema comes with as standard, and we will also review the prices and our overall assessment of the car.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira